Common Queries
If your question isn't answered here, please feel free to send it to me directly.
Will my insurer pay you directly or do I submit a claim for reimbursement?
Different insurance companies work differently and so there is no single answer to this question. Let me know at our first appointment, which insurance company you are working with and I'll let you know if I bill them directly or whether you need to submit the invoice/receipt for reimbursement.
How long does each therapy or assessment session take?
A therapy hour is 50-minutes long. If there is a need for a longer therapy session, we can discuss that together once we meet.
Assessment sessions, however, may be longer than 50-minutes. If you are seeking an assessment, please let me know before your first appointment.
What is a clinical and counselling psychologist?
As there are many types of mental health professionals, I thought it might be helpful to explain a little about me and what I do as a clinical and counselling psychologist.
I have a doctorate in psychology (PhD) and I am licensed by the College of Psychologists of Ontario to practise assessment, give diagnoses, and deliver therapy.
I remain up-to-date with the latest advancements in psychology by the continual study of the latest research and consultation with other psychologists. This allows me to help my clients with the latest empirically supported treatments.
Having a PhD also gives me access to scientifically validated psychological tests only available to other doctoral psychologists. This, along with a clinical interview, allows me to both diagnose and understand the personality functioning of my clients so that I can develop the best-individualized treatment plan for them to attain their goals.
The ability to give assessment and diagnosis is key in developing a treatment plan, as it is the assessment and diagnosis that sets up the map for what is treated in therapy.
Of course, many individuals come to therapy not because they have anything diagnosable, but only for insight and help with life's problems. Here too it is important to highlight that assessment is not only for diagnosing but also for gaining insight to a client's strengths and weaknesses. This information, which is shared with the client, also allows for the creation of a treatment plan to help the client achieve his or her goals.