FAQs

Are Psychologists’ fees covered by Alberta Health Care?

Fees for psychological services are in accordance with the Recommended Fee Schedule for Psychologists put forth by the Psychological Association of Alberta - $220 per 50 minute session. For more information please call or email and I would be happy to discuss any questions you may have regarding fees. Full or partial coverage is provided by many insurance policies and by most extended employee health benefit plans. It is recommended that you check with your health care plan and employee benefits to see if you have such coverage. Direct billing is provided for most insurance plans.

How often should I come for counselling?

Frequency and duration of sessions will be discussed during your first appointment, and are based on a number of factors including the severity of the presenting concern.

Is everything confidential?

Conversations that occur during therapy sessions are kept in strict confidence. This includes the handling of files that contain case notes, records, treatment planning, and psychological test results. If you have a need or request to disclose information from your personal files with another professional (e.g. medical doctor or third party billing source for employee benefits), your written consent will be required and you will be asked to sign a release of information form.

Legal Limitations to Confidentiality:

Psychologists are required to break confidentiality in cases where your life, or the life of another, is in danger. Psychologists are also required by law to report physical or sexual abuse of a child under the age of 18, a client disclosure of sexual violence by a health professional, and for mandated reporting to WCB. A full list and discussion of the legal limits to confidentiality will be provided to you in your first session and throughout therapy as appropriate.

How long is each appointment?

Appointments are 50 minutes long, allowing 10 minutes between appointments to update your file.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychologists receive extensive training in psychology through a variety of programs and in Alberta must meet the educational and clinical requirements put forth by the College of Alberta Psychologists. This includes at least 6 years of education culminating in a Masters Degree, 1600 supervised hours, a comprehensive written exam as well as an oral examination. Psychologists focus on assisting clients through talk-therapy, do not prescribe medication, and appointments with psychologists can be made directly by the individual seeking assistance and do not require a medical referral. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have a specialization in using pharmaceutical interventions to assist in mental health disorders. They are able to prescribe medication whereas a psychologist does not, and it is generally a focus of their treatment.

Is there free parking on location?

Yes. Change Matters in located in a quiet, central location and free street parking is available.