The Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program is a federal program run by Indigenous Services Canada. It covers certain health benefits for eligible First Nations and Inuit, including mental health counselling.

Who is eligible?

You must live in Canada and be, for example, a registered First Nations person or a recognized Inuk. Coverage is for the individual, not the whole family. If you’re not sure, call (587) 372-3143.

What you will need

Your status or client identification number
Your date of birth

How many hours?

Up to 22 hours per calendar year, including up to 2 hours of initial assessment. Additional hours may be approved case by case.

Is approval needed?

Counselling generally needs prior approval, but the first 2 hours can be approved after they happen. That’s why you can often start quickly. Requests are usually assessed within 5 business days, and Mukesh handles this for you.

Who can provide counselling?

Providers must be registered in good standing with a regulatory body. In Alberta, registered clinical social workers are eligible. Mukesh Mishra is a Registered Clinical Social Worker.

Other programs

The Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program offers counselling and cultural and emotional support for eligible former students and their families. Ask Mukesh which program fits you.

Sources: Indigenous Services Canada, NIHB mental health counselling benefits and the guide to the benefit. Program rules can change.