How does therapy work?
The purpose of therapy is to help you to resolve your personal problems and learn more effective ways of living. Your therapist will collaboratively work with you to understand your challenges, and help you to reach your therapy goals through active listening, empathy, applying psychological techniques and providing professional suggestions in a safe and unbiased manner. Your responsibility is to regularly attend sessions and be open to discussing and working on changing your thoughts, feelings and behaviors that may be contributing and maintaining your problems.
What will happen in the first session?
During the first session we will provide you with a comprehensive assessment and an individualized treatment plan. You will be asked a series of questions relating to your current problems and any documents, such as report cards, may be reviewed to better understand you. Likewise, we may ask you to complete some questionnaires or seek consultation (with your permission) with other sources such as family members or doctors in order to establish a comprehensive assessment.
How long will therapy last?
Toronto West Psychology uses brief and empirically effective therapies (e.g., CBT, CPT) for most challenges that clients face. Depending on the frequency of appointments and the type and intensity of your specific needs will determine how long therapy will last. Of course, therapists provide you with an ongoing monitoring of your treatment goals and progress. You will have an estimate of the number of sessions required for treatment based on your first session and you retain complete control of your therapy process. At any time, you may discontinue treatment regardless of whether your therapist agrees with your decision. We highly encourage you to always discuss ending treatment with your therapist.
How does the payment work?
We currently accept cash or cheque.
Are Psychological Services Covered by OHIP?
Psychological services are not covered by OHIP. Your extended health insurance plans may cover such services, but it is important to contact your insurance carrier as plans differ according to the amount and type of coverage, the claim procedure, details required on receipts and whether a referral for services from your physician is required.
Psychological service fees are determined by the Ontario Psychological Association (OPA). Payment for each session is due at each session and a receipt is given when payment is received. These receipts may be used for your insurance or income tax claim.
What is your cancellation policy?
Clients are required to provide 24 hours notice of appointment cancellations or changes. The full session fee will be charged for missed treatment session where such notice was not provided.
Are there any risks?
During psychotherapy, you can expect to discuss uncomfortable feelings (guilt, sadness, anxiety), unpleasant aspects of your life (e.g., stressors), and have your thoughts challenged in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. This may feel uncomfortable for you at times, particularly if you are accustomed to avoid thinking or speaking about your unpleasant feelings or thoughts. Therapists are trained to help you to become more self-aware and implement change. It is important that you be prepared to be open and engaged in therapy in order for you to get the most out of therapy.
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
Toronto West Psychology does not require a doctor’s referral to provide you with psychological services; however, some extended health carriers do require a physician’s referral before providing reimbursement of fees.
What are your clinic’s hours?
We offer appointments Monday to Friday from 8:00am to 8:00pm, and Saturday from 9:00am to 4:00pm.
How do I book an appointment?
If you are interested in the services provided by Toronto West Psychology, please contact us at 416 528-9990 or info@torontowestpsychology.ca