For First Nations and Inuit clients in Edmonton and across Alberta
Counselling covered by NIHB, with no one turned away over cost
Mukesh Mishra, MSW, RCSW, offers confidential counselling through the Non-Insured Health Benefits program. See Mukesh in Edmonton, or by video or phone from anywhere in Alberta. If you can’t pay a fee NIHB doesn’t cover, your counselling is free.
No referral or diagnosis is needed. Mukesh handles the NIHB paperwork.
What you can talk about
You choose what to bring and how fast to go. You don’t have to tell your whole story to get help.
Anxiety, depression and stress
One-to-one counselling for what is weighing on you, at your pace.
Read moreGrief, loss and trauma
Support after a death, a violent event or years of carrying pain.
Read moreResidential school impacts
For survivors, and for families living with intergenerational harm.
Read moreMMIWG families
Steady support for families of missing and murdered women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.
Read moreGetting started is simple
Reach out
Call, send a message or book online. You can ask questions first. You don’t have to commit to anything.
Share your details
Mukesh will ask for your status or client number to check your NIHB coverage.
First session
The first 2 hours of counselling can be approved afterward, so you can often start quickly.
Keep going
Mukesh handles requests for approval. You and Mukesh decide together how often to meet.
What will it cost?
NIHB pays for approved counselling directly, so most eligible clients pay nothing. If there is ever a fee that NIHB does not cover and you cannot pay it, Mukesh provides your counselling for free.
Money should not be the reason you go without help. Tell Mukesh about your situation, and it will be sorted out before your session.
A safe place to talk
Mukesh’s job is to listen, respect what you know about your own life, and understand how colonization, racism and systems have affected you and your family.
Your ceremonies, Elders, family and community are welcome as part of your healing, in whatever way you choose.
Common questions
Who can use NIHB counselling?
Registered First Nations people and recognized Inuit who live in Canada and meet the program’s rules. If you are not sure, call and Mukesh can help you find out.
Do I need a referral?
No. You do not need a referral or a diagnosis to ask for counselling.
Can I do counselling by phone or video?
Yes, if you agree to it. NIHB covers counselling by video or phone. Its guide says the first assessment should generally be in person, so Mukesh will talk with you about what is possible for you.
Will my Band or anyone else find out?
What you say in counselling is confidential, with limited legal exceptions, such as when someone is at serious risk. Mukesh will explain these at the start.
Reach out when you are ready
Call, book online or send a message.
NIHB Counselling
3818A 97 St NW #203, Edmonton, AB T6E 6N2
(587) 372-3143
Open in Google Maps
Need help right now? In immediate danger, call 9-1-1. Call or text 9-8-8 at any time. The Hope for Wellness Help Line for First Nations and Inuit is open 24 hours a day at 1-855-242-3310, with online chat at hopeforwellness.ca.