Question 1

What can I expect at the first appointment?

Accepted Answer

The first session is an opportunity for discussion about what brings you in for services. Typically this includes a review of your/your child's history and a clinical interview to better understand your needs. At this session, we will also aim to set a goal and plan for therapy or assessment. Options for service will be reviewed as well as guidelines for how your information is kept private and confidential. If you are meeting regarding concerns about your child, it is usually best that the first appointment is with parents only to allow for a candid conversation about your concerns. This can be discussed at the time of booking.

Question 2

What if parents are separated or divorced?

Accepted Answer

In cases where parents are separated or divorced and there is joint custody, consent from both parents is necessary before services can be provided to your child. Legal guardians need to be in agreement for psychological services to be provided to children and adolescents and consent needs to be signed by both. Consent from the other parent is not required if you are seeking parenting support for yourself and your child will not be seen. If it is not possible to gather consent from the other parent (ie. their whereabouts are unknown), please discuss this with your therapist.

Question 3

Do I need a referral to access services?

Accepted Answer

No. Although referrals are accepted from other healthcare professionals, a referral is not necessary. If you feel that you or your child may benefit from therapy or assessment, you are welcome to call in directly to discuss appropriate services.

Question 4

Can my services be billed directly to my insurance provider?

Accepted Answer

Direct billing is available for a limited number of insurance providers. Please inquire when booking your appointment to confirm whether direct billing is available with your insurer. When direct billing is not available or if you are paying out of pocket, payment is due at each session. A receipt will be provided, which you can submit to your insurer for reimbursement.Please contact your insurance provider directly to confirm your plan details, coverage, and eligibility for services from your provider’s designation. Some insurers or third-party payers may require pre-approval before services are covered. It is your responsibility to ensure any required pre-approvals are in place.Please note that insurers and third-party payers do not cover late cancellation or no-show fees. These fees are the responsibility of the client.Appointments cannot be booked while there is an outstanding balance on your account.

Question 5

How might I feel after I start therapy?

Accepted Answer

Usually, clients experience some relief after starting therapy. Often they have debated whether to ask for help for some time and are glad when they make the initial step. Sometimes, people feel somewhat restless and agitated after their first session. Often, people are discussing and reviewing events and feelings that they may have kept private for a very long time. This can result in some discomfort initially. It is important to let me know if you experience this. Clients are urged to consider the risks that major psychological transformation may have on their current relationships.

Question 6

What is the typical length of a course of therapy? How often will we meet?

Accepted Answer

There is no definite length of therapy. The number of sessions depends on the complexity of the issue, or issues being addressed. A very general guideline would be 4-8 sessions. At the beginning of therapy, people generally come once a week, until some stabilization has been established. After that, there is some flexibility and more time can elapse between sessions. This will be something that is discussed with you in the session. It is important to let me know your feelings about how often you would like to meet.

Question 7

When is confidentiality broken?

Accepted Answer

All information is kept confidential unless you request or give consent that information is shared with others. It is important to be aware that there are some circumstances where information may need to be shared without your consent. This includes if there is reason to believe a child may be in need of protection if the threat of harm to self or others is indicated, if records are required by law and if the ability to operate a vehicle is significantly impacted.

Question 8

What if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?

Accepted Answer

I understand that sometimes things come up unexpectedly. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please give no less than 24 hours notice. Notice of less than 24 hours may incur the full cost of the session. Third party payers and insurance companies do not cover late cancellation and no show fees.

Question 9

How much do sessions cost?

Accepted Answer

Therapy sessions are billed at $160 per session for therapists and $200 per session for registered psychologists. Assessments are billed at $200 per hour. The time required to complete an assessment varies. This will be discussed at the first appointment. Fees are subject to change.

Question 10

What kind of payment is accepted?

Accepted Answer

Moose Jaw Psychology currently accepts cash, cheque, e-transfer, and credit card.

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