Affordable counselling for underserved communities

Moving Forward Family Services is a non-profit charity that offers free short-term and affordable long-term counselling options to folks across British Columbia, as well as to anyone in Canada unable to access local support.

22,000+

SESSIONS LAST YEAR

15,000

OFFERED AT NO COST

$5–$7

AVG. PER PAID SESSION

Services

Three ways forward, together

Our services are delivered by supervised students in social work and counselling programs across Canada, who are in the final months of their education, as well as registered therapists willing to offer sliding scale services to low income clients.

Counselling

Support for trauma, stress, anger, grief, depression, anxiety, and the everyday weight of life — in person, online, or by phone.

Social Work

Practical, connected support that helps individuals and families navigate systems and access the resources they need.

Mental Health

Community groups, workshops, and coaching programs — from mindfulness to parenting to substance use management.

How it Works

Making it easy to get support

Our services are delivered by supervised students in social work and counselling programs across Canada, who are in the final months of their education, as well as registered therapists willing to offer sliding scale services to low income clients.

1.

Tell Us About Your Needs

Complete our confidential intake form and answer a few questions about what you're looking for. We'll review your information to understand your situation and identify the services that are the best fit for you.

2.

Get Matched With the Right Support

We’ll connect you with the counselling, coaching, or program that best matches your needs, preferences, availability, and financial situation. We offer free and affordable options, available online, by phone, or in person when available.

3.

Start Your Journey

Once you're matched, you'll schedule your first session and begin working with a counsellor or support professional. From there, you'll receive compassionate, ongoing support designed to help you move forward at your own pace.

Who We’re Here For

A low-barrier entry to counseling

We may not be a perfect fit for everyone — our goal is to reach the people who slip through the cracks of the healthcare system. If your benefits don't cover mental health, or private therapy is out of reach, we're ready to help.

Low-income individuals, couples, and families who can't afford private therapy

All ages, genders, religions, and backgrounds, regardless of financial status

Services offered in 20 languages, in person in the Lower Mainland, or online and by phone anywhere in Canada

Our Purpose

Offering low-cost services built for long-term healing.

Public services help many people quickly but are often restrictive with long wait times. Private services are open with minimal waits, but expensive. Moving Forward bridges the two — offering low-cost services built for long-term healing.

We complement existing services instead of competing with them, easing pressure on the wider healthcare system while making sure nobody in need is turned away.

Moving Forward Family Services - Gary

A LETTER FROM GARY

“I believe everyone has some form of struggle, and while it isn’t always a bad thing, everyone should have equitable access to the support needed to address it.”

That’s why I started Moving Forward. We support everyone, including the most vulnerable in our communities, especially those who may not be eligible for services in the public sector. We know how difficult it can be to find help promptly, especially without an extensive benefits plan. This is where Moving Forward can help. We believe early intervention and prevention can benefit our society as a whole. Shorter wait times mean your needs are addressed quickly, helping you overcome your struggles. Plus, early action can lower resource investment on the other end of the spectrum, such as policing, corrections, or long-term hospitalization. We are passionate about helping people and want to help out any way we can. We have a variety of services offered in over 20 languages meaning everyone is welcome, even you!

Donate

For every $20 donated, we can provide up to one hour of counselling services to someone who needs it.