FAQs
Are private practice psychologists covered by MSI?
Unfortunately, no. Private practice psychologists are not covered by MSI, but most health insurance plans cover our services. Check with your insurance company to see if they cover psychological services and teletherapy Depending on your coverage, we may be able to direct bill. Also, fees for psychological services are tax-exempt and tax deductible in Canada, so save your receipts for any counselling or assessment services for tax time.
How does telepsychology work?
Telepsychology has the same purpose or intention as psychological treatment sessions that are conducted in person and is just as effective. For video sessions, your psychologist will send you a link to join the video session. Once you click the link, you will enter your psychologist’s virtual waiting room until your psychologist starts the session. You will be able to see and hear each other, as long as your cameras and microphones are turned on. You will need a compatible computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone with internet access and audio and webcam ability. You will also need to have access to a phone in case of internet disconnection or technological interruptions during video sessions. For phone sessions, your psychologist will call you at your scheduled session time.
There is a risk that services could be disrupted or distorted by unforeseen technical problems. To minimize the risk of being overheard by anyone near you, I recommend going to a private room and using headphones, if possible. Your psychologist will conduct the session from a private and secure space.
Do I need a referral from my family doctor?
We do not need a referral in order for you to speak with a psychologist. However, you should double-check with your insurance whether or not they require you to have a referral in order to get reimbursed for services.
Can psychologists prescribe medication?
No. A psychologist does not prescribe medication and any decisions regarding pharmaceutical treatments must be made in consultation with your physician, pharmacist, and/or psychiatrist.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
A psychiatrist has a medical degree (MD) and they help prescribe and manage medication whereas psychologists provide psychotherapy. Your psychologist is a process consultant and a guide along your road to better alignment within your self and relationships.
Depending on the presenting problem, the right combination of medication plus therapy can produce the best possible outcomes.
How long is a session?
Therapy sessions with psychologists are typically 50 minutes long. The remaining 10 minutes of the hour are used for note-taking and administrative work related to your client file.
How long does it take?
The number of sessions that are required to help resolve a specific issue depends on your unique needs. This will be discussed during your first appointment. Some clients may benefit from 2-3 sessions while others may require 10-12 or more. The frequency of your sessions can also be discussed with your psychologist. For example, some clients may find it beneficial to come in once a week, while others may find bi-weekly or monthly sufficient. You are more likely to gain traction by starting with sessions closer together (e.g., biweekly) and then spreading them out as things improve or to help maintain progress or tackle ongoing or new problems in your life.
Do you offer evening or weekend appointments?
There are a limited number of late day/early evening appointments available.
Will I be charged for missing an appointment?
Your appointment time is reserved just for you. We ask that you give me a minimum of 24 business hours’ notice if you need to cancel or change your appointment, this way we can fill the appointment time with someone from our waiting list. Please note that third-party coverage typically does not pay for missed appointment fees and the client is responsible for covering the cost prior to their next follow-up appointment. For more details about our cancellation policy, click here.
If I discontinue therapy, can I come back in the future?
Although I do my best to accommodate past clients, if it has been over 3 months since your last visit I cannot guarantee that I will have availability. I use a cancellation list, but depending on my availability and your needs it may not be possible to offer regular follow up right away or at all. If you are a past client looking to reengage with therapy, reach out and I will see if I can accommodate and if not, I will provide you with a referral.