Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about working with a psychologist or the nature of psychological services. I have attempted to answer the most frequently asked questions below. If you have a question that is not listed here or would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact our office.
* Please note that email communication is not secure and your confidentiality cannot be ensured.
1. What is a psychologist?
Psychologists study how we think, feel and behave from a scientific viewpoint and apply this knowledge to help people understand, explain and change their behaviour. In Ontario, the term psychologist applies to those who have completed a doctoral degree in psychology and at least one year of supervised professional practice as a provider of psychological services. This means that, on average, psychologists commit about 11 years to their education and training. Psychologists are regulated health service providers who work as clinicians, teachers, and researchers in various settings. Services provided by psychologists include assessment, therapy, consultation, and research. For more information on psychologists and the services they provide, please visit the official websites of the Ontario Psychological Association and the Canadian Psychological Association.
2. What is a psychological associate?
Psychological associates are also regulated health service providers. Psychological associates have completed training in psychology at the Masters level and at least four full years of additional supervised professional practice as a provider of psychological services. Once their training is complete, psychological associates practice autonomously and have the same scope of practice as psychologists. They are not required to work under the professional supervision of a psychologist.
3. What is the difference between a psychologist and psychiatrist?
As stated above, a psychologist is a regulated health service provider who has been awarded a doctoral degree in psychology and completed at least one year of supervised practice. Psychologists are governed by the College of Psychologists of Ontario. A psychiatrist is also a regulated health service provider. However, a psychiatrist is a physician who has completed a medical degree (M.D.) as well as additional training in mental health. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication; psychologists cannot. The services of psychiatrists are covered under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP); the services of psychologists are not.
4. What does it mean to be a registered psychologist or psychological associate?
To practice psychology in Ontario, a person must hold a current certificate of registration from the College of Psychologists of Ontario; the regulatory body for the profession. Under the authority of the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and the Psychology Act, 1991, the College registers two classes of autonomous practitioners: psychologists and psychological associates.
5. What is psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy involves talking with a psychology service provider about thoughts, feelings, and behaviour that may be causing problems in day-to-day life. The therapist helps people gain insight into their feelings, change behaviours, resolve problems or learn how to deal with feelings like stress, grief, loss, fear and sadness. Psychotherapy is sometimes combined with homework assignments between sessions.
6. When should I seek psychological services?
Psychology services are helpful in the assessment and resolution of problems that interfere with day-to-day life. Psychological services may be helpful for people:
- Suffering from medical or health related problems
- Who feel an overwhelming and prolonged sense of sadness and helplessness, and lack hope in their lives
- With emotional difficulties that make it hard for them to function from day to day. For example, they are unable to concentrate on assignments and their job or school performance suffers as a result
- Who are troubled by emotional difficulties facing family members or close friends
- Who are having problems with interpersonal relationships
7. How do I choose a psychology service provider?
It is important for there to be a good match between you and your psychology service provider. You can gain an initial impression by asking a few questions upon first contact with your service provider. Some questions you might ask could be:
- Are you accepting new clients?
- How much experience do you have helping people with my problem?
- What special techniques do you use?
- What does a typical session look like?
- What are your hours?
- What are your fees?
8. Are psychological services covered by OHIP or insurance?
Psychological assessment and intervention are not listed benefits under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). However, teaching hospitals in regional centres (like London) usually offer integrated or consultative psychological services for many of their specialty programs. For more information on OHIP coverage, visit the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care website.
Some people have coverage for psychological services through motor vehicle accident insurance, disability plans, or extended health care benefits. Check with your particular benefit plan, as this varies. Psychological assessment and intervention needs are also covered by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB). For more information on services covered by WSIB and automobile insurance visit the WSIB and Financial Services Commission of Ontario websites.
9. If I see a psychologist, does this mean that I’m crazy?
No! People work with clinical psychologists for a variety of reasons including to improve their own health and well being. Some people seek out the services of a clinical psychologist in response to a specific life crisis, while others seek to improve an already happy life. Sometimes people feel ready to do a piece of work that has been lingering for them and are seeking a therapist to help them on this journey. Many are ordinary people coping with extraordinary circumstances. A psychologist can provide a confidential and safe place to vent feelings and thoughts. Whether you are coping with a long-term problem or find yourself in need of short-term crisis management, a psychologist may be able to help.
10. How confidential is my information?
Information collected during the course of psychological treatment is completely confidential. There are a few exceptions to this rule that largely revolve around safety issues. For example, your psychologist would break confidentiality if she/he felt that you or someone else was in danger of being harmed. The psychologist will review the limits of confidentiality with you prior to starting treatment.