Refugee Support - IFHP Program

At Center Street Psychology in Calgary, Alberta, we are deeply committed to supporting new entrants to Canada by providing a welcoming, inclusive, and trauma-informed space where refugees and immigrants can access culturally sensitive counselling to navigate the challenges of resettlement, such as trauma, anxiety, and cultural adjustment. We recognize that Canada’s strength lies in its diversity, enriched by the unique perspectives, resilience, and skills that newcomers bring, fostering innovation and vibrant communities. Our affirming and all-inclusive clinic embraces everyone, regardless of background, identity, or experiences, offering person-centered therapy tailored to individual needs. By drawing on diverse therapeutic approaches and fostering a non-judgmental environment, we empower newcomers to thrive, contributing to a more equitable and connected Canada.

The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) pays for urgent or essential health care in Canada. This includes supplemental healthcare by Registered Clinical Psychologists, Registered Psychotherapists, Registered Counselling Therapists or Social Workers. Individual, group, or family therapy and assessments are covered along with follow-up care tailored to refugees’ needs.

Counselling support for new refugees to Canada offers several key benefits, addressing their unique emotional, social, and practical challenges.

Mental Health Support: Refugees often experience trauma from conflict, displacement, or persecution. Counselling provides a safe space to process these experiences, reducing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression. It helps build resilience and coping mechanisms for a new environment.
Cultural and Social Integration: Counsellors help refugees navigate cultural differences, language barriers, and social norms in Canada. This support fosters a sense of belonging, reduces isolation, and aids in building community connections.
Practical Guidance: Counselling often includes assistance with practical challenges like accessing housing, employment, healthcare, and education. Settlement counsellors connect refugees to resources, such as government programs or community services, easing their transition.
Family and Relationship Support: Displacement can strain family dynamics. Counselling helps address intergenerational conflicts, parenting challenges, or relationship issues, promoting healthier family units in a new context.
Empowerment and Self-Efficacy: By providing tools to manage stress and set goals, counselling empowers refugees to take control of their new lives, boosting confidence and independence.
Access to Specialized Services: Counsellors can refer refugees to culturally sensitive mental health services, legal aid, or community organizations tailored to their needs, ensuring comprehensive support.

These benefits align with Canada’s refugee resettlement programs, which emphasize holistic integration.

SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS WITH US

We can guide you through the setup process. No credit card required as we are setup and direct bill through Medavie Blue Cross. You only need to provide an IFHP Document.

Does this apply to you (and your family)?

Eligibility:
The IFHP provides temporary health coverage, including mental health services, to specific groups not covered by provincial or territorial health insurance, such as:

Resettled refugees
Refugee claimants awaiting a decision from the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB)
Protected persons
Individuals eligible for a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA)
Certain others, like victims of human trafficking or those with temporary resident permits due to family violence.

Eligibility is confirmed with an IFHP document, such as a Refugee Protection Claimant Document (RPCD), Refugee Protection Identity Document (RPID), or IFHP Certificate (IFHC) issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

Present IFHP Eligibility Document:
Before receiving counselling, show your IFHP eligibility document (e.g., RPCD, RPID, or IFHC) to the provider. If the IFHC is used, you may also need a government-issued photo ID.

Additional Notes:

Coverage is temporary and may end if your status changes or you become eligible for provincial health insurance (e.g., Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan for permanent residents).

· Coverage begins on the document’s issuance date and lasts until you qualify for provincial/territorial health insurance (typically within 3 months for resettled refugees) or until your immigration status changes (e.g., a rejected claim or PRRA ineligibility).