FAQ
What is a Psychologist?
A psychologist is a professional trained in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health issues. Psychologists are registered and regulated by the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO). In Ontario, only a member of CPO may call himself/herself a psychologist. In order to be registered as a psychologist in Ontario, an individual must have completed a graduate degree (currently a doctorate) as well as a one-year supervised internship. He or she must then pass professional examinations, and agree to follow an ethical code and standards of professional practice as defined in the Health Professions Act legislated by the Province of Ontario.
What is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)?
A Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) is a member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario who is nearing completion of training as a psychotherapist. To do so, they must practice under the supervision of a clinical professional for 450 hours. A Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) is bound by the same professional standards and responsibilities as a Registered Psychotherapist who has completed their training.
Should I be seeing a Psychologist or Psychotherapist?
Many people, at some time in their life, need professional help with their personal problems. The role of a therapist is to help you find solutions to the problems and challenges you may be facing at home, school, or work. It is often difficult to recognize when help is needed. Listed below are some of the reasons why people see a therapist. If you or someone you care about is experiencing problems such as these, think about consulting a therapist.
- You are chronically anxious and/or depressed
- You suffer from phobias
- You have difficulty getting along with your partner, family, friends, or co-workers
- You are having problems with parenting
- You are overwhelmed or “burned out” by workplace stress
- You suspect you or a family member has a learning disability or attention deficit disorder and need an assessment
- You are faced with a major life change
- You are faced with a career change and need vocational advice and assessment
- You have been involved in a traumatic incident
- You are suffering from a complicated grief reaction
- You are suffering from low self-esteem
This is by no means an exhaustive list of the reasons why a person might consult a therapist. If you simply feel like you need someone to talk to, either to unburden yourself, to develop healthy strategies, or to provide support not available from other people in your life, a therapist may be able to help you. Your problem does not have to be overwhelmingly serious to benefit from psychological help. Delays in seeking help may cause you needless suffering and may cause your problem to become worse in the long run, if untreated.
Is what I tell a Psychologist or Psychotherapist confidential?
In most circumstances, information obtained in the context of the patient/therapist relationship is strictly confidential, as required by law. The patient files are not made available to a third party without the patient’s signed consent permitting the release of information. The rare exceptions to confidentiality as required by law are discussed in the initial consultation.
Are Psychologists and Psychotherapists covered by OHIP?
Psychologists and Psychotherapists in private practice are not covered by OHIP. However, their services are covered by most extended health care plans either through your employer or purchased by you. You should consult with your extended health provider to see what coverage you might have.
Do I need a referral from my Family Physician to see a Psychologist or Psychotherapist?
It is not necessary to obtain a referral to see a Psychologist or Psychotherapist. You can self-refer to any psychology professional. However, some extended health care plans and other third-party insurers require the inclusion of a Physician’s referral when submitting a claim for a therapist’s fees.
What is a Psychoeducational Assessment and what does it involve?
A full psychoeducational assessment is administered when an individual is struggling in school, has difficulties with attention and concentration, or has behaviour problems. An assessment is used to identify learning strengths and weaknesses and to diagnose attention disorders, learning disabilities, or developmental problems, and provide appropriate recommendations and supports. Assessment involves the completion of a series of tests (answering questions, solving puzzles, memory tests, etc.) and is conducted in approximately 3 or 4 two-hour sessions. Testing is preceded by a one-hour consultation session in which a patient history is obtained. The skills and abilities that are typically assessed include cognitive skills (reasoning, general knowledge, problem solving, processing speed, etc.), academic achievement (reading, writing, and math), memory and learning, neuropsychological processing, and attention/concentration. Some assessments also include social and emotional functioning when warranted. An extensive written report is provided and discussed in detail during a one-hour follow-up session.
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