Finding the right therapist plays a key role in supporting your mental health. Many people prioritize affordability, accessibility, and trust when deciding where to begin. At the Cognitive & Interpersonal Therapy Centre (CITC) in Toronto, we make therapy accessible by offering services through our student therapists. Under the close supervision of clinical psychologists, these therapists provide affordable, evidence-based care.
Working with a student therapist isn’t a “second-best” choice, it’s a chance to access effective, cost-conscious therapy backed by expert guidance.
The Benefits of Affordable Therapy with a Resident or Practicum Student
1. The “Two-for-One” Model of Care
When you work with a practicum student or resident at CITC, you aren’t just seeing one therapist, you are benefiting from the knowledge and guidance of two. Practicum students and residents provide direct therapy while a registered clinical psychologist supervises every step.
Supervisors review treatment plans, assessments, and interventions to ensure quality and best practices.
This model reassures clients that therapy combines fresh perspectives with senior psychologists’ years of experience. It’s a unique strength of sliding scale therapy in Toronto at CITC.
2. Evidence-Based Therapy, Closely Supervised
At CITC, all of our practicum students and residents are trained in evidence-based approaches. These approached include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and more.
These clinicians also meet regularly with their supervisors to review client progress and adjust strategies where needed. This means your sessions are not only personalized but also carefully overseen to ensure they align with the latest clinical research and therapeutic standards.
3. Affordability and Accessibility
Therapy is an investment in your health and well-being, but cost can sometimes be a barrier. Practicum student and resident therapy at CITC is offered at significantly reduced rates with a sliding scale.
This makes it possible for clients who may not otherwise be able to afford therapy to receive high-quality, evidence-based support. Additionally, because all services are billed as psychological services under the supervising psychologist’s registration number, many extended health benefit plans will cover these sessions.
If you are facing financial barriers to starting therapy, reach out to our clinical coordinator today to discuss your options at CITC.
4. Fresh Perspectives and Genuine Dedication
Practicum students and residents are at a unique point in their professional development. They are immersed in clinical training, eager to learn, and highly motivated to support their clients. Many clients find that working with these therapists brings a fresh energy and perspective to their sessions.
At CITC, our practicum students and residents are carefully selected and supported because of their skill, warmth, and dedication to providing compassionate care.
Meet Our Resident and Practicum Student Therapists
Aarti Gupta, Resident Therapist
Aarti Gupta is currently enrolled in a Doctor of Clinical Psychology program at Adler Graduate Professional School. She brings over four years of private practice experience, offering both therapy and psychological assessments.
At CITC Aarti provides therapy for adults, children, and adolescents. Additionally, she provides psychological assessments, including ADHD assessments, giftedness assessments and psychoeducational testing. Aarti’s approach is collaborative and compassionate, blending evidence-based therapies like CBT and IPT with a focus on each client’s unique needs.
Whether supporting a child struggling with attention challenges or an adult navigating anxiety, Aarti’s work is always grounded in careful supervision and clinical experience. She is an excellent choice for those seeking a resident therapist in Toronto.
Scott Boulton, Practicum Student Therapist
Scott Boulton is a second-year Doctor of Psychology student at the Adler Graduate Professional School. He works primarily with adults, providing therapy for a range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD and interpersonal difficulties. Scott combines strong clinical training with a warm, approachable style that helps clients feel at ease.
His work is supported by clinical psychologists at CITC, ensuring every client benefits from a thoughtful, evidence-based plan. Scott offers affordable therapy in Toronto for adults looking for quality support.
Stephanie McKenzie, Practicum Student Therapist
Stephanie McKenzie is a doctoral student in the Clinical Psychology program at York University. At CITC Stephanie primarily works with adults, offering therapy for navigating life transitions, mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, complex trauma and learning challenges.
Stephanie’s therapeutic approach is grounded in a safe, warm, and non-judgemental place. She integrates a social-culturally sensitive lens, acknowledging the unique experiences and identities of everyone, making her an excellent resource for adults seeking sliding scale therapy in Toronto.
Jazzmin Demy, Practicum Student Therapist
Jazzmin Demy is a PhD-level therapist and doctoral student in Clinical-Developmental Psychology at York University. Her work focuses on children and adolescents, providing therapy that supports emotional regulation, confidence, and coping skills. She also offers parenting therapy, helping caregivers navigate challenges, strengthen relationships with their children, and feel more confident in their parenting approaches.
In addition to therapy, Jazzmin provides psychological assessments for youth, giving families clarity about learning, attention, or emotional concerns. Her supportive and empathetic approach helps young clients feel comfortable opening up, making her an ideal option for families seeking affordable child, adolescent, or parenting therapy in Toronto.
Why Choose Therapy with a CITC Resident or Practicum Student?
Working with a practicum student or resident therapist at CITC means:
- Affordable therapy with reduced rates and sliding scale options
- High-quality care backed by close supervision from senior psychologists
- Coverage under most extended health benefits, since receipts are issued under the supervising psychologist’s registration number
- Support for all ages, from child and adolescent therapy and assessments to adult individual therapy
- Fresh perspectives and dedication from emerging therapists passionate about client care
Taking the Next Step Towards Affordable Therapy
Therapy is a powerful investment in your mental health. At CITC, we make therapy accessible without sacrificing quality. Our practicum students and residents provide compassionate, evidence-based care for children, teens, and adults. They always work at reduced rates under the guidance of expert supervisors.
If you’re seeking affordable therapy in Toronto, consider booking with one of our practicum students or residents. You’ll benefit from the two-for-one model of care, ensuring your sessions are guided by both emerging clinicians and experienced psychologists.
To schedule an intake session with our resident or practicum students’ book now using our online booking portal: Owl booking portal
Have some questions? Reach out to our clinical coordinator today for answers. We look forward to supporting you on your journey to mental health and well-being.
