What is a school psychologist?
School psychologists support an individual's ability to learn. They apply expertise in learning, mental health, and behaviour to help individuals succeed academically, socially, behaviourally, and emotionally. School psychologists receive specialized advanced graduate preparation that includes coursework and practical experiences relevant to both psychology and education.

Is a referral needed for an appointment?
 A referral is not required to book an appointment.  Please check, however, if you require a referral letter from your physician in order to be reimbursed for psychological services from your private insurance plan.

What do I need to know about fees and payment options?
The Association of Psychologists of Nova Scotia (APNS) has set the recommended fee for psychological services. The current fee is $210 per 50 minute session which is expected to be paid at the end of each session. Forms (other documentation) are billed at the same rate. e-Transfer is accepted at this time as a payment option.

MSI does not cover private psychological services; therefore, please look into any private insurance plans for coverage of psychological services. Fees not paid by insurance may be tax-deductible as health/medical expenses.
​
Do you direct bill insurance companies?
I do not provide direct billing but would  be happy to issue you a receipt for insurance purposes.

 

Questions to ask your insurance company

• Does my insurance company provide coverage for psychological services?

• How much coverage do I receive for psychological services per year from my insurance company?

• When does my insurance renew?

• What percentage of the session fee is covered by the insurance company?

• Where and how are receipts submitted to the insurance company for reimbursement?

• Is a referral letter from a physician required in order to be reimbursed for psychological services from a private insurance plan?

 

Fee reimbursement through the Canada Student Grant for Services and Equipment
Please speak with your Student Loan Office or University Accessibility Centre as to whether the Canada Student Grant for Services and Equipment for Students with Permanent Disabilities will cover any fees associated with coaching/learning sessions with a psychologist.

Can a psychologist prescribe medication?
Psychologists cannot prescribe medications in Canada.

Confidentiality and storage of records
Consent for in-person and/or telepsychology services will be completed during the first session. Client confidentiality is maintained according to the Canadian Code of Ethics for Psychologists (4th Edition, 2017, CPA: Principle I.43-34); and in compliance with the Personal Health Information Act (PHIA; June 1st, 2013). All information in your file is confidential; however, this confidentiality is limited by standard legal requirements with respect to issues such as harm to self or others; suspicion of abuse of a child, elder, or animal, and subpoena by a court of law. Documentation will be stored in accordance with the Canadian Code of Ethics for Psychologists governing the storage and maintenance of psychological records. Records are kept on file for ten years after which they are shredded by the psychologist.

​

What is your cancellation policy?

I kindly request a minimum of 24 hours notice to cancel your appointment. For Monday or long weekend appointments, notification on the Friday before is required. Missed sessions will be billed at the current rate; however, fees will be waived in cases of serious illness or emergency situations. Please note that insurance companies do not typically reimburse for missed appointments or late cancellation appointments.

​

​