Interim Federal Health Program — Registered Provider

IFHP Psychology Calgary
support for those rebuilding their lives.

Center Street Psychology is a registered Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) provider. We offer trauma-informed, culturally sensitive psychological care to refugees, asylum seekers, and eligible newcomers — billed directly to Medavie Blue Cross so there is no upfront cost to you.

IFHP Registered Refugees & Asylum Seekers Medavie Blue Cross Billing In-Person & Telehealth

At Center Street Psychology, we are deeply committed to supporting newcomers to Canada. We understand that the journey to this country — often marked by conflict, loss, displacement, and uncertainty — can leave lasting effects on mental health and wellbeing. Our registered psychologists provide a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental space where your experiences are met with compassion and your cultural background is honoured.

We offer individual, family, and group therapy for eligible IFHP clients, with a focus on trauma, resettlement stress, and cultural adjustment. All you need to bring is your IFHP eligibility document — we handle all billing directly through Medavie Blue Cross.

Canada's strength lies in its diversity. We are proud to be part of the support network that helps newcomers access the care they need and deserve.

What is covered

  • Individual therapy & counselling
  • Family & group therapy
  • Trauma & PTSD treatment
  • Anxiety, depression & adjustment support
  • Culturally sensitive & person-centred care
  • Psychological assessments (where applicable)
  • Follow-up care tailored to your needs

Who is eligible

IFHP covers specific groups who are not yet eligible for provincial health insurance

GAR
Resettled Refugees
Government-assisted refugees (GARs) and privately sponsored refugees (PSRs) who have recently arrived in Canada.
IRB
Asylum Claimants
Refugee claimants awaiting a decision from the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) of Canada.
PP
Protected Persons
Individuals recognized as protected persons who are not yet covered by provincial or territorial health insurance.
OTH
Other Eligible Groups
Victims of human trafficking with a Temporary Resident Permit, certain persons with Pre-Removal Risk Assessment eligibility, and others as designated by IRCC.
RCMP therapy at Center Street Psychology

Areas of support

Trauma-informed, culturally sensitive care from registered psychologists

01
Trauma & PTSD
Trauma-focused therapy for those who have experienced war, persecution, violence, or the hardship of forced displacement.
02
Anxiety & Depression
Support for the anxiety, grief, and depression that often accompany displacement, uncertainty, and the process of building a new life.
03
Cultural Adjustment
Help navigating cultural differences, language barriers, social norms, and the complex process of resettlement in Canada.
04
Family & Relationships
Support for families navigating intergenerational stress, parenting in a new culture, and relationship strain during resettlement.
05
Children & Youth
Age-appropriate psychological support for children and youth adjusting to a new country, school system, and social environment.

How to get started

No credit card required — you only need your IFHP eligibility document

1
Confirm your IFHP eligibility
Check that you have a valid IFHP eligibility document — such as a Refugee Protection Claimant Document (RPCD), Refugee Protection Identity Document (RPID), or an IFHP Certificate (IFHC) issued by IRCC or the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
2
Contact us to book an intake
Call or email our clinic to let us know you are seeking IFHP-covered services. Our team will guide you through the next steps and answer any questions about your coverage.
3
Bring your IFHP document to your first appointment
Present your IFHP eligibility document at your first session. If using an IFHP Certificate (IFHC), you may also need a government-issued photo ID. We will verify and set up your file from there.
4
Begin therapy — we bill Medavie Blue Cross directly
We are set up as a registered IFHP provider and bill directly through Medavie Blue Cross. There is no upfront payment required from you. You focus on healing; we take care of the rest.

IFHP coverage at our clinic

  • Individual therapy & counsellingCovered
  • Family therapyCovered
  • Group therapyCovered
  • Psychological assessmentsCovered
  • Follow-up & ongoing careCovered
  • Clients without IFHP (sliding scale available)Ask us

Practical details

  • Location1000 Centre St N #320, Calgary AB
  • TelehealthAvailable across Alberta
  • BillingMedavie Blue Cross (direct)
  • What to bringIFHP eligibility document
  • LanguagesEnglish & French
  • Phone(403) 399-5120

About your IFHP document: Coverage begins on the issuance date of your IFHP document and continues until you become eligible for provincial health insurance (typically within three months for resettled refugees) or until your immigration status changes. If your document has been lost or expired, you can reapply through IRCC by submitting form IMM 5564 online or by mail.

Note on co-payments: As of May 2025, the federal government introduced a co-payment of approximately 30% for supplemental health services including mental health care. Basic health services remain fully covered. Please contact us and we will help clarify what applies to your specific coverage before your first appointment.

You are welcome here.

Book a complimentary 20-minute connection call or contact us to get started with your IFHP coverage.

If you are in crisis: Please call the 24-hour Crisis Line at 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. The Distress Centre Calgary is also available at (403) 266-4357.

CONTACT US

For inquiries about booking an appointment or to request a complimentary consultation please reach out here.

Schedule a Complimentary Phone Consultation that works for you OR fill out your information and click “Book and Appointment” and we will reach to you.