Free Therapy for Refugees through Canada's IFHP Program
Access up to 10 fully covered therapy sessions per calendar year with Ruh therapists approved under the Interim Federal Health Program.
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How to Sign Up
McMaster University student health plans cover psychotherapy sessions with licensed therapists at Ruh Care. Whether you're an undergraduate or graduate student, here's how to get started and make use of your coverage in three simple steps:
Get a Referral from an IFHP-Registered Doctor
Ask for a note from your doctor or have them fill out this formmmmm
Start Therapy with Ruh
Once you have your referral, book your first therapy appointment with a Ruh therapist in your province. May need a CCT call or a logic on the matching form that routes them only to a therapist in their province.
Ruh Submits the Request to IFHP
We'll take care of the paperwork. Once approved (in 1–3 weeks), you’re covered for 10 sessions.
How it works
3 simple steps to start helping you live a happier life.
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Fill matching form or find a therapist below
Share your preferences to help us find the perfect therapist match for you and your needs.
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Get matched instantly
Easily book your first session directly in your therapist’s calendar.
Start therapy
Connect with your therapist however you feel comfortable - via phone or video on your mobile or desktop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ask away! Our client care team will happily take care of you :)
How many sessions are covered?
You are covered for up to 10 sessions per calendar year. Sessions reset every January. If you’ve used some sessions elsewhere, Ruh can support you with the remaining balance!
Do I need a referral to access therapy through Ruh?
Yes, your doctor will need to refer you to Ruh. If they haven't done so already, they may do so from (link)
Am I eligible for IFHP?
If you're a refugee or protected person in Canada, you likely qualify. Confirm your eligibility by calling Medavie Blue Cross -link it.
What makes therapy at Ruh Islamic?
At Ruh, everything we do is guided by the principles of Islam and rooted in the teachings of Ahlus Sunnah wal Jama’ah. We understand that mental health is a journey that touches both the heart and soul, and we believe that every step of this process is an amanah (trust) given to us by Allah. We strive to approach our work with ihsaan (excellence), with the intention of alleviating the difficulties faced by our brothers and sisters with compassion, wisdom, and sincerity.
Our therapists are trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities, with ongoing professional development that includes religious consultation and clinical training within an Islamic framework. This allows them to integrate modern therapeutic techniques with Islamic teachings, ensuring that our clients’ cultural and spiritual needs are always respected and addressed.
At the core of Ruh’s approach is the relationship with Allah (SWT). We recognize that healing is a holistic process—one that should not be void of the client’s ruh (soul). With this in mind, our therapists incorporate concepts like tawakkul (trust in Allah), sabr (patience), and gratitude, amongst other Islamic character strengths, when appropriate, in ways that are meaningful to our clients.
In addition to providing culturally sensitive care, we are deeply committed to seeing each client as they are. Our therapists strive to create a safe, inclusive space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal journeys. At Ruh, we foster a community that uplifts and empowers individuals, helping them to find healing through both modern mental health practices and the timeless wisdom of Islam.
Our therapists are trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities, with ongoing professional development that includes religious consultation and clinical training within an Islamic framework. This allows them to integrate modern therapeutic techniques with Islamic teachings, ensuring that our clients’ cultural and spiritual needs are always respected and addressed.
At the core of Ruh’s approach is the relationship with Allah (SWT). We recognize that healing is a holistic process—one that should not be void of the client’s ruh (soul). With this in mind, our therapists incorporate concepts like tawakkul (trust in Allah), sabr (patience), and gratitude, amongst other Islamic character strengths, when appropriate, in ways that are meaningful to our clients.
In addition to providing culturally sensitive care, we are deeply committed to seeing each client as they are. Our therapists strive to create a safe, inclusive space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal journeys. At Ruh, we foster a community that uplifts and empowers individuals, helping them to find healing through both modern mental health practices and the timeless wisdom of Islam.