The Métis government has partnered with the Alberta provincial government to improve access to its mental health support program.
Formerly known as the Community Wellness Financial Assistance Program, the Ni Natoohtaan (Psychology Benefit Program) provides funding for Métis Citizens to access up to 12 sessions with a psychologist or social worker for complex mental health needs, according to the program’s website.
The revamped program introduces several improvements, including direct billing through Alberta Blue Cross. This reduces upfront costs by allowing clients to avoid paying out-of-pocket and submitting receipts for reimbursement. The program also now offers broader service options, including in-person assessments and treatment, telehealth sessions, and Internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (ICBT).
Participants will also have access to customer support through the Alberta Blue Cross Customer Services Department for assistance with claims and coverage questions.
The Métis government said the next intake for the program will take place in August, with the exact date and time to be announced on its website by July 31.
Because the Psychology Benefit Program is available to all registered Métis citizens residing anywhere in Alberta, location is not a barrier to eligibility. Métis citizens in Slave Lake can access services through local providers or through telehealth options.
Clients may see any registered psychologist, social worker, or eligible counsellor in or around Slave Lake, provided they meet the program criteria.
Applicants must have an established relationship with their provider, meaning they have attended at least one previous session with them. The provider must also be licensed through the appropriate Alberta regulatory body or association and registered to accept Alberta Blue Cross billing or allow manual claims.
Local options for in-person service in Slave Lake include Northern Alberta Psychological Services, Wholistic Counselling and Wellness, and Lesser Slave Lake Psychological Services Ltd.
The expansion of the program comes as rural communities across Alberta continue to face challenges accessing mental health services, including limited provider availability and long travel distances for specialized care. The program’s expanded telehealth options may help Métis citizens access support without leaving their communities.
The program is also part of broader efforts to improve access to culturally appropriate mental health supports for Métis citizens. Indigenous communities have historically faced barriers to accessing health services, including geographic isolation and the need for care that is responsive to cultural experiences and perspectives.
Métis citizens of all ages are eligible to apply.
However, applications for those under the age of 18 must be submitted by a parent or guardian, the Métis government says.
The first one hundred eligible applications are enrolled for each intake, and there are four intakes each year, it says, as it invites Métis to sign up for the Voyageur Voice e-newsletter or follow the Otipemisiwak Métis Government on social media for up-to-date information on the program.
William Hetherington
Lakeside Leader
