Covered Mental Health Counselling for First Nations and Inuit Clients
If you are a registered First Nations or Inuit person living in Ontario or Newfoundland and Labrador, you may be entitled to mental health counselling at no cost to you through the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program. Evolution Counselling and Wellness is a registered NIHB provider and handles all direct billing on your behalf.
Book a Free 15-Minute Clarity CallDo You Qualify?
You do not need to navigate this alone. If you are unsure whether you qualify, reach out before booking and we will help you confirm your eligibility.
You may be eligible for NIHB mental health coverage if you are a resident of Canada and meet one of the following:
Registered First Nations
You hold a valid Status Card as a registered First Nations person under the Indian Act.
Recognized Inuk
You are an Inuk recognized by an Inuit land claim organization.
What Is Covered?
In plain terms: most people use one 50-minute session per week. At that pace, your NIHB coverage gives you roughly five to six months of consistent counselling support every year – at no cost to you.
Up to 22 Hours Per Year
Eligible clients are covered for up to 22 hours of professional mental health counselling per calendar year, including an initial assessment of up to 2 hours.
Individual, Family, or Group
Your covered hours can be used for individual counselling, family sessions, or group therapy depending on your needs and goals.
Extensions Available
If more support is needed beyond the standard hours, additional sessions can be requested and reviewed on a case-by-case basis within the same calendar year.
How Billing Works – What You Need to Know
You do not pay anything at the time of your session. As a registered NIHB provider, Evolution Counselling and Wellness submits all billing directly to the federal government on your behalf.
What You Need to Provide
Your NIHB client identification number. If you are not sure where to find it, the regional contacts listed below can help you locate it before your first session.
What We Handle
Everything else. We submit claims directly so there are no forms for you to complete, no receipts to chase, and no out-of-pocket expenses for approved sessions.
How to Get Started
Reach Out First
Contact us to discuss your needs and confirm that NIHB direct billing is the right pathway for your situation before booking.
Have Your ID Number Ready
Provide your NIHB client identification number. If you do not have it, the regional contacts below can help you find it quickly.
We Set Up Direct Billing
We confirm your eligibility and set up billing so you do not need to pay anything out of pocket for approved sessions.
Begin Virtual Counselling
Start sessions from anywhere in Ontario or Newfoundland and Labrador – no travel required, accessible from home or any private space.
Regional Contacts – Getting Help With Your Benefits
If you have questions about your eligibility, coverage, or how to access your NIHB number, the following offices can help you directly.
Newfoundland and Labrador
- Qalipu First Nation Members – NIHB Manager:
709-634-3144 - Mental Wellness Navigator:
709-679-2238 - NIHB Atlantic Regional Office:
1-800-565-3294
Ontario
- Chiefs of Ontario Navigator:
1-877-517-6527 - NIHB Ontario Regional Office:
1-800-640-0642
Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Why Choose Evolution Counselling and Wellness
Registered NIHB Provider
We are enrolled with the NIHB program and offer direct billing for eligible clients in both Ontario and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Virtual and Accessible
All sessions are conducted online, making it easier to access consistent support whether you are in a city, a rural community, or a remote area.
Trauma-Informed Care
Support focused on men’s mental health, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, anger, and first responder wellbeing using evidence-based approaches.
Free 15-Minute Clarity Call
Before committing to anything, you can book a free 15-minute conversation to ask questions, confirm your coverage, and see if this is the right fit for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NIHB program?
The Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program is administered by Indigenous Services Canada. It provides eligible First Nations and Inuit individuals with coverage for a range of health services, including mental health counselling, that may not be covered by provincial healthcare or private insurance.
How do I know if I am eligible?
You are likely eligible if you are a registered First Nations person with a valid Status Card, an Inuk recognized by an Inuit land claim organization, or a child under age 2 whose parent is an eligible NIHB client. If you are unsure, contact us or reach out to your regional NIHB office before booking.
How many sessions am I covered for?
Eligible clients are covered for up to 22 hours of professional mental health counselling per calendar year, including an initial assessment of up to 2 hours. Additional hours can be requested if more support is needed and are reviewed case by case.
Do I have to pay anything?
No. As a registered NIHB provider, Evolution Counselling and Wellness submits all billing directly to the federal government. You do not pay out of pocket for approved sessions.
What do I need to bring to my first session?
Your NIHB client identification number is the main thing we need to set up direct billing. If you are not sure where to find it, your regional NIHB office or community navigator can help you locate it before your first appointment.
Do I need to live in Newfoundland and Labrador or Ontario?
Yes. Counselling services are available only to residents of Newfoundland and Labrador and Ontario. Wellness and nutrition services are available across Canada separately.
Are sessions in person or online?
All sessions are conducted virtually through secure video. This makes it easier to access consistent support regardless of where you live, including rural and remote communities.
What issues can NIHB-covered counselling help with?
Covered sessions can address a range of mental health concerns including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, anger, stress, relationship difficulties, and emotional regulation. We tailor the approach to what you are dealing with.
How quickly can I get started?
Most clients are able to schedule a clarity call within a few days. Once your NIHB eligibility is confirmed and billing is set up, we can book your first session shortly after.
If You Are in Crisis Right Now
NIHB counselling is designed for scheduled, ongoing therapy and is not an emergency service. If you need immediate support, please reach out to one of the following:
- Hope for Wellness Help Line – culturally safe, immediate support available 24/7: 1-855-242-3310 or online chat at hopeforwellness.ca
- National Suicide Crisis Helpline: call or text 9-8-8
- Emergency services: call 911
Ready to Confirm Your Coverage and Get Started?
If you would like to confirm your NIHB eligibility or get started with covered counselling, the first step is a free 15-minute conversation. No pressure, no obligation – just a chance to ask questions and see if this is the right fit.
Book a Free 15-Minute Clarity Call