Frequently asked questions

What is Psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is a process in which through open and honest communication with a professional one can come to gain a deeper understanding of oneself, reduce emotional distress (such as depression, anxiety), feel more in control of ones's life, build healthy ways of coping with difficulties and stressors in life, and develop communication skills that might help in developing a more satisfying and meaningful life.

Psychotherapy has it own advantages and disadvantages. One should be aware that not everyone benefits from psychotherapy.

I have been practicing mainly from a Cognitive Behavioural Model; however, a collaborative approach, tailored to each client in order to suite them the best is used.

Medication

As a registered Psychological Associate I do not and cannot prescribe medications. I do respect one's choice to use or not to use medication. I will be happy to work collaboratively with your family physician or psychiatrist in this regards.

How long does psychotherapy take?

Psychotherapy is open and honest communication with a professional in regular scheduled sessions on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Depending on the presenting issues or problems. We collaboratively determine the number of sessions. If a client is presenting with a behavioural problem, the goals could be reached in about 8-12 sessions. This is short-term psychotherapy usually involving learning and practicing new skills.

Long-term therapy is mostly related to gaining better understanding and awareness of ones relationship patterns, thoughts, and feelings and improving quality of life in general.

Coverage

Psychotherapy sessions with a Registered Psychologist and/or Psychological Associate are partially tax deductible. They can be clamed under health expenses when you file your income tax.

Insurance Coverage: Registered Psychologist and Psychological Associate’s fees are often covered (at least in part) by your extended health care plan. You should consult with your extended health care provider.

Victims of motor vehicle accidents may qualifiy for services with a Registered Psychologist or Psychological Associate with coverage from their auto insurance.

Individuals with WSIB claims are also able to have their Psychological Associate’s fee covered.

Psychological services are not covered by OHIP.

Clients are expected to call and book appointments as well as cancel or reschedule appointments 24 hours in advance. You can communicate with me via phone or email. Messages are checked regularly through out the week day. Calls and emails are returned within 24 hours. During the weekend calls and emails will be returned as soon as possible.

Who are Psychological Associates?

The profession of psychology in Ontario has a single scope of practice. There is no distinction made in the legislation or in the regulations between Psychologists and Psychological Associates with respect to scope of practice or with respect to controlled / authorized acts.

In order to obtain a Certificate of Registration Authorizing Practice, every applicant must demonstrate competence to perform the controlled act of communicating diagnosis. The College has been evaluating registration applicants for the knowledge and skills required to formulate and communicate a diagnosis for several years.