CONSULTATIONS

I provide consultations for parents which include an assessment as well as the development of a treatment plan. Consultations can be conducted over two appointments - one focusing on the assessment and the second on the treatment plan. However most parents I work with prefer to combine these appointments and complete the assessment and the treatment plan in one session. Most often, if this is the preferred option, it is possible to get through everything in one session which is between 2-3 hours in length.

Treatment plans are individualized, taking into consideration parents' tolerance for what they feel comfortable with, their description of their child's temperament, and what is known based on scientific literature to be effective in addressing the presenting problem(s). The majority of my recommendations are behavioural in nature.

A primary goal of the consultation is to gain a better understanding of the factors that have caused, and that are maintaining the presenting problem(s). Another important goal is to provide parents with a set of tools and techniques that have been shown to be effective in treating these problems.

Prior to the consultation, several questionnaires are sent to parents. Completed forms are returned prior to the consultation. A report is sent to parents following the consultation.

FOLLOW-UP CONSULTATION

The purpose of follow-up is to answer questions, problem-solve, and provide additional support following the initial consultation. The frequency and duration of follow-up is based on individual needs. Follow-up consultation is usually done in person. However, in some circumstances, follow-up consultation may be conducted over the phone.

FEES

Many employment-related or extended health care benefit plans offer full or partial coverage for psychological services. Fees for psychological services are based on guidelines recommended by the Ontario Psychological Association. Psychological services are not currently covered under OHIP.

Psychological services with a Registered Psychologist are partly tax deductible. They can be claimed as a health expense when you file your income tax return.

CHOOSING A REGISTERED PSYCHOLOGIST

Psychologists undergo more education and training in psychotherapy than do any other mental health professional or psychotherapist. In order to earn the title of Psychologist, individuals must complete a doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in psychology, a pre-doctoral clinical internship, a post-doctoral year of supervision, and they must pass several examinations so as to demonstrate that they meet the standards of practice set by the College of Psychologists of Ontario. Psychologists must formally declare their areas of competence and demonstrate to the College of Psychologists that they are competent to practice independently in their declared areas. Psychologists are mandated to provide ethical and competent services.

Unlicensed therapists do not have to answer to any governing body. As such, there is no guarantee that they are sufficiently competent to practice in the areas they claim to. Also unlicensed psychotherapists' services are not covered by any insurance or benefits plan.

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