FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are suicidal, go to your nearest emergency room or call 911.

If you are not at imminent risk of harm, the following services may be helpful:

Mental Health Crisis Line: https://www.crisisline.ca/

Ottawa: 613-722-6914

Outside Ottawa: 1-866-996-0991

Youth Services Bureau of Ottawa: https://www.ysb.ca/

613-260-2360

Crisis Chat: chat.ysb.ca

Please call or e-mail us to book an appointment.

(613) 726-7355

admin@thrivecognitivetherapy.ca

Or Click here to tell us more about how we can help you.

Clients do not need a referral in order to see a psychologist. You may self-refer by simply calling or e-mailing the clinic to make an appointment. However, some insurance companies may require a referral for coverage purposes. Many family physicians may refer to a psychologist for specialized care.

Clients do not need a diagnosis in order to make an appointment with a psychologist. In fact, many clients do not meet diagnostic criteria for a mental health disorder but find it useful to talk with someone to improve troubling areas of their lives.

Although other health care providers such as counsellors and social workers may offer varying forms of therapy, Clinical Psychologists are required to complete more years of education, training and research experience. These requirements permit psychologists to provide a diagnosis, and ensures that clients receive the highest quality of care. In addition, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologists are also licensed and regulated by the College of Psychologists in order to maintain the most rigorous standards of professional conduct and care.

At the first appointment you will meet with your psychologist to discuss your goals and concerns. Your psychologist will review the nature of confidentiality and consent, take the time to discuss the process of therapy, and answer any questions you may have.

A clinical interview will be conducted to understand the important aspects of your life, experiences and environment, from which we will begin developing a treatment plan. As always, you are welcome and encouraged to ask any questions you may have throughout this process.

Clients are often asked to complete a biographical questionnaire prior to attending their first session. This can be very helpful in enhancing the clinical interview and for clients to highlight important areas of concern.

Therapy can be a short-term experience focusing on a very specific issue or goal. Research has shown that CBT clients who are actively engaged in therapy can experience improvement in their symptoms in as little as 8-12 sessions.

Therapy can also be a longer-term experience to help clients with long standing, multiple, or complex issues. The actual number and frequency of sessions is a personal decision and will be discussed during treatment planning.

Sessions are 50 minutes long, and usually occur once per week. The frequency of sessions is usually tapered as you progress in therapy, and become more adept at utilizing the skills and techniques that will help you achieve your goals.

Psychotherapy is not currently covered by OHIP, however most third-party insurance providers do include coverage amounts for psychotherapy. Please check with your insurance provider for details on the amount of coverage you may have. Please note: Fees paid to psychologists may be deducted on your personal income tax return. Payment can be made by cash, debit or credit card.

For more information about the clinic or to book an appointment please call us at 613-726-7355, or e-mail us at admin@thrivecognitivetherapy.ca

For more general information about the practice of Psychology, the following links may be helpful:

HELPFUL LINKS