About the Project

This research project aimed to improve access to mental health care for women and gender-diverse individuals facing poverty and housing instability in Canada. Recognizing the unique barriers this population often encounters—such as financial constraints, lack of private space, and limited access to technology—the study explored whether free virtual therapy could serve as an effective and accessible solution for individuals experiencing poverty and housing instability.

Methodology

In collaboration with Green Shield Canada and Up With Women/Exponenti’elles, the project provided five hours of no-cost virtual therapy to women and gender-diverse individuals across Canada at risk of homelessness.

The research unfolded in two key phases:

• Phase 1: Collaborating with Partner Organizations - This phase involved regular meetings to support program implementation, identify challenges, and develop solutions. These meetings also allowed for regular updates and feedback from stakeholders, ensuring that the program was shaped by a variety of perspectives. To guide the evaluation, the team conducted literature reviews to identify well-established implementation frameworks that were evidence-based and suitable for the project context.

• Phase 2: Participant interviews - This phase focused on gathering insights from individuals who accessed the free virtual therapy. One-on-one interviews were conducted to explore participants’ experiences—what worked well, what challenges they encountered, and how the service could be improved. These open-ended discussions gave participants space to share their personal stories, offering valuable insight into the real-life impact of the therapy. The interview responses were analyzed to identify common themes, which will inform future improvements in mental health service delivery for similar populations.

Findings

The larger study is still ongoing and anticipates the following findings:

• Accessibility of virtual therapy: The study expected to reveal how easy or difficult it was for participants to access and use the virtual therapy service

• Effectiveness and acceptability: Researchers anticipated learning whether participants felt the therapy helped with their mental health concerns and whether they were satisfied with the support they received.

• Barriers and facilitators: The findings are expected to highlight what made it easier or harder for participants to engage with the therapy.

Project Outreach

This research project is currently focused on individuals in Canada who accessed free virtual psychotherapy through Green Shield Canada. While it has not yet expanded internationally, the findings may be relevant for other countries facing similar challenges in delivering mental health care to marginalized populations. Future plans for scaling include broadening the initiative across Canada by partnering with additional community organizations and exploring its potential for international adaptation.

Resources Created

• National dissemination: Preliminary study findings will be presented at the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) National Conference in St. John’s, Newfoundland, on June 19–22, 2025.

• A final research report summarizing key findings to be shared with stakeholders

• Preliminary findings will be presented at the Canadian Psychological Association Conference in June 2025, contributing to national conversations on mental health equity