FAQ

What forms of payment do you take?

We take cash, email money transfers, and personal cheques but do not accept credit or debit cards at the present time. We will provide you with a receipt so that you can be reimbursed for the session fees if you have coverage through your extended-health care plan. The full session fee, however, is due at the beginning of every session.

How much do you charge?

Our fees are covered by most employee workplace insurance extended-health benefit plans. Please check with your insurance provider to determine how much coverage is provided for the services of a registered psychologist. Our fees correspond to the recommended rates outlined by the Ontario Psychological Association (OPA). Psychological services also qualify for a tax break when your receipts are submitted with your income tax return.

Cancellation policy

We have a 24 hour cancellation policy. That means that you are free to cancel or reschedule your appointments as long as you give us at least at least 24 hours notice. If for any reason you have to cancel or miss an appointment without giving us notice at least 24 hours beforehand, you will be financially responsible for the full session fee.

What about confidentiality?

We have a written agreement which reviews our policy on confidentiality. This will be reviewed and signed before your sessions start.

What are your office hours?

We currently offer weekday day and weekday evening appointments. We also have some availability on Saturdays for individual or group sessions.

Why choose a psychologist?

Psychologists obtain extensive training in the assessment and treatment of most psychological problems. They usually have more formal psychotherapy training than any other mental health professional. Furthermore, in order to be called a psychologist, they must earn a doctoral degree (Ph.D.) from an accredited university, complete a pre-doctoral internship, complete a post-doctoral year of supervised practice and complete licensure requirements through the College of Psychologists of Ontario. The College of Psychologists is a governing body designed to oversee the work of psychologists and ensure that the public is receiving proper services. They ensure that each psychologist practices within her or his scope of practice.

What is the difference between a psychologist and psychiatrist?

A clinical psychologist is a regulated health service provider who has a doctoral degree in clinical psychology, having been trained in research and various forms of psychotherapy and assessment. Psychologists are governed by the College of Psychologists of Ontario. A psychiatrist is also a regulated health service provider. However, a psychiatrist is a physician who has completed a medical degree (M.D.) who specialized in mental health (like a paediatrician is an M.D. who specializes in the treatment of children). Psychiatrists have extensive training in the treatment of mental health concerns with medication and some also provide psychotherapy, while psychologists have extensive training in both assessment and psychotherapy (but cannot prescribe medication). The services of psychiatrists are covered under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP); the services of psychologists are not, but are covered by many extended healthcare plans.

What can a Social Worker offer me in a clinic setting?

Clinical Social Workers working in private practice are skilled at understanding individual problems in the context of their past and current environment and significant life and relational experiences. Social Workers often use a non-judgmental and collaborative approach drawing from the expertise of the person seeking counselling combined with the knowledge and specialized training of the therapist to achieve therapy goals. Clinical Social Workers working in Private Practice often seek supervision as part of their practice and are required to adhere to the code of ethics and standards of professional practice set out by their regulatory body – the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW).