Policies
Referrals
Self-referrals are welcomed. Your general physician does not need to refer you for psychological services, as you may seek them out on your own.
Insurance
Check with your insurance provider to determine what coverage you have for the services provided by a Registered Psychologist in British Columbia.
If any of these fees are not covered by your insurance or if you happen to be without health coverage, note that these psychological services are tax deductible and they qualify as a medical expense.
Cancellation Policy
Note that a 48-hour cancellation policy is in place at all times and without exception. If you cancel within 48 hours, you will incur the following fees.
1 missed session: $100.00
3 missed sessions: $150.00
5 missed sessions: $200.00
Payment Methods
Fees are expected to be paid in full at the beginning of each appointment unless alternate third party arrangements have been made prior to the session. I accept payment by cash, e-transfer, cheques, credit card, and AlphaPay. There will be additional $5.00 surcharge if you opt for credit cards.
Cost
Cost of sessions will be discussed directly and over e-mail or phone. Every transaction will be accompanied with an invoice capturing the date of service.
Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP)
I am registered with CVAP, a government funded program, which covers a portion of my full fee to help with the healing process associated with traumatic experiences.
Emergency or Crisis
If you are experiencing an emergency or crisis of a medical, mental health, or trauma-related nature, immediately call 911 or the BC suicide prevention phone-line at 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433). You may also go to the nearest hospital emergency room to seek immediate support.
In order to ensure full confidentiality and a secure transmission of information between therapist and client, it is necessary that you refrain from e-mailing me content related to your therapy sessions. However, should you choose to communicate via e-mail, I provide an encrypted address which you will be given during your time in my care.
It is necessary to be cognizant of the fact that all e-mails are retained in the internet service providers logs, and as result, are subject to possible mismanagement. While it is unlikely that somebody will be looking at these logs, they might theoretically be read by ISP's internet service administrators. You should also know that any e-mails or communication that I receive from you, as well as any responses that I send to you are a part of your legal record.
Teletherapy Sessions
Teletherapy allows a continuity of service when unperson sessions might not be an option due to sickness, transportation limitations, vacations, or conflicting schedules. For those who live remotely, who also appreciate receiving therapy in the comfort and privacy of their own home or office, this proves to be an ideal solution.
The use of internet voice and video conversation is a secure form of communication that is encrypted for the purpose of protecting and safeguarding your privacy. Note that cell phones offer the least amount of protection, while landlines continue to be a more secure mode of connection. Granted, with any method of communication, there is a possibility that privacy and therefore confidentiality might be breached.