What is a Psychologist and how can one help?

Psychologists are licensed practitioners with doctoral (Ph.D.) level training. They are trained to assess, diagnose and treat a wide variety of emotional, behavioral and cognitive difficulties that people face in their everyday lives. Oftentimes, psychotherapeutic techniques compliment pharmacological treatment provided by medical practitioners.

Who should see a psychologist?

Many people believe that psychologists only treat patients with severe mental health problems. This is not the case! Psychologists assist people in all walks of life, struggling with all kinds of issues.

It is no secret that life presents us with a variety of stressors, and that at times these can be overwhelming. Personal problems can arise at home, in the workplace, at school, in our relationships, or simply in everyday life.  While the support of family and friends can be important, there can be times when that support is not available or is not enough to help us cope effectively with stressful periods or events. At such times it is often beneficial to talk to an objective professional who can assist you in overcoming a variety of issues.

Psychologists can also be instrumental in assessing and diagnosing a variety of difficulties to assist with important life decisions and treatment.  Cognitive assessments to determine degree of impairment following head injury, long-term substance abuse, or aging, educational assessments to diagnose ADHD and learning disabilities, and personality and diagnostic assessments to determine emotional dysfunction are only some of the services that Clinical Psychologists can provide.

We provide a broad range of psychological services to adolescent (above age 12) and adult clients, including assessment, treatment and consultation.  Issues addressed can include:

• Depression
• Stress management
• Anxiety/panic/phobias
• Low self-esteem and assertiveness
• Loss and grief
• Relationship problems
• Significant life changes, including separation/divorce, birth of a baby, marriage, loss of employment etc.
• Coping with a medical illness and/or chronic pain
• Problems stemming from physical, sexual and/or emotional abuse
• memory or other cognitive difficulties
• Post-traumatic stress following an accident or other trauma
• Emotional or intellectual difficulties following injury or stress
• Cognitive/personality assessments for with diagnosis and treatment planning

We do NOT provide family therapy, couples therapy, or substance abuse counselling.

Philosophy

Our resident psychologist maintains a health-oriented approach, working with clients to maximize their potential. Treatment services are individualized to address each client’s difficulties and personality style, keeping in mind the context within which they live their lives. A broad range of therapeutic techniques are drawn upon, including cognitive-behavioral (CBT), insight-oriented, humanistic, and supportive therapy. 

We strive to increase clients’ understanding of the issues they face, the underlying reasons behind their behavior and decisions, and the obstacles that may prevent them from making positive changes in their lives to allow them to cope better. Treatment goals are identified with clients’ participation. Periodic review of treatment goals and progress in therapy ensure that treatment is appropriate and effective.  Clients are encouraged to actively participate in treatment both within and between sessions.

Referrals

Referrals are accepted from individual clients as well as physicians, insurers (worker’s compensation benefits, disability insurers, and/or auto insurers), allied health care professionals (e.g. chiropractors, physiotherapists, and social workers), lawyers, and employee assistance counselors.

Fees

Unfortunately, psychological services are not covered under OHIP, but may be covered in part or in full by extended health care plans, auto insurance, worker’s compensation benefits, disability insurance, and other benefit plans. Fees are in accordance with guidelines established by the Ontario Psychological Association, and are discussed prior to the first appointment.

New Patient Form

Download our new patient form below and fill it out before you come in to save time.

Initial Health Intake Form