Frequently Asked Questions

Our staff has extensive experience in the Mental Health field. Once you outline your problems or issues, we will be able to work with you to determine the appropriate next steps. Sometimes it is as simple as setting up the first therapy appointment. Other times, it may be decided that a psychological assessment is needed to help clarify a diagnosis (e.g., for children around ADHD and learning disabilities; for adults to help clarify a diagnosis to aid a treating psychiatrist and make treatment recommendations). Sometimes, we help direct callers to other more appropriate services in the region based upon their needs and situations.

Appointments are easily made. You can simply call our main number and speak with Darlene Patterson who completes all referrals. Otherwise, you can send us an email request through the website and you will be contacted by us to answer any questions and set up an appointment.

The first therapy appointment is an opportunity to discuss your issues at length. It is usually 1½ hours and the psychologist tries to get a good understanding of the issues bringing you to see us as well as your background (e.g., who you are and where you come from). The psychologist will ask many questions in order to better understand you and then make suggestions around how treatment will help.

Payment for services is due at the end of every session and a receipt will be given when payment is received. In this way, the account remains manageable and counselling becomes a naturally budgeted expense. You may then submit this receipt to your extended health insurance or hold it for your income tax claim, if applicable. Your fee will be discussed with you during the intake interview and you will be advised before hand if any changes are made to the fee. All efforts are made to provide affordable psychological services. Currently, our fee schedule ranges from $150 to $220 per hour depending on the services provided and the counsellor assigned. When people are seen under the auto insurance, long term disability, veterans affairs, or WSIB, we process the billing directly.

Fees are set according to the time and nature of the service involved. All fees charged follow the guidelines set by the Ontario Psychological Association for psychological consultation and counselling. Fees will be discussed with you during the intake interview.

Fees may be paid by cash,cheque, debit or Visa.

Most extended health plans cover psychological assessments, individual therapy, couples counseling, and family counseling. In general, if you have benefits that cover visits to the dentist, you likely have benefits for psychological services. Please consult your insurance provider to learn more about your benefits. Questions to ask include:

Are psychological services covered?

How much coverage do I have per year?

When does the coverage reset?

Is the coverage only for the employee or are other family members covered as well?

Is a letter or referral from my physician required?

What details are required on receipts?

The severity of your concerns and your psychotherapy goals will impact the number of sessions you will need. Generally, clients who attend 8 – 12 sessions experience improvement and feel equipped to face future problems effectively.

No, you do not need a referral from your doctor. In fact, you can refer yourself for psychological assessment or counseling. However, your extended health benefits provider may require a physician’s referral. Please check your benefit booklet for this requirement.

Yes, your sessions are confidential. Your right to privacy and confidentiality is very important. No information will be shared with a third party without your informed consent in advance. However, under certain unusual situations, your right to privacy and confidentiality might be limited. Your therapist will explain these situations to you during the first session.