Question 1

What services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer psychological and psychoeducational assessments, including ADHD and autism assessments, counselling, trauma-informed therapy, play therapy and consultation. We use CBT, DBT and other evidence-based approaches in a psychologist-owned, multidisciplinary practice.

Question 2

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

No. You can book directly with us. Some insurance plans ask for a doctor's note, so check your plan.

Question 3

Is there a waitlist?

Accepted Answer

Counselling has immediate availability. Assessments are currently booking 4 to 5 months out, and psychoeducational assessments in BC with our psychometrist have immediate availability.

Question 4

Which clinic should I book with?

Accepted Answer

Book with the clinic in your province. Families in British Columbia book with Coquitlam, and families in Alberta book with Medicine Hat. Online sessions are available anywhere in either province.

Question 5

What ages do you work with?

Accepted Answer

We work with young children, school-aged children, teens, adults and families.

Question 6

Do you offer online sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Counselling and parts of some assessments can be done online for clients anywhere in BC or Alberta.

Question 7

Do you offer evening and weekend appointments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Ask our intake team about availability.

Question 8

How do I know if my child or I need a psychological assessment?

Accepted Answer

Assessments help clarify learning differences, attention and executive functioning, emotional and behavioural concerns, developmental differences and strengths. If there are challenges at school, at work, at home or in daily life, an assessment can give insight, clarity and recommendations for next steps.

Question 9

What is the difference between an autism, ADHD and psychoeducational assessment?

Accepted Answer

An autism assessment looks at communication, social interaction, sensory needs and patterns of behaviour. An ADHD assessment looks at attention, activity level and executive functioning. A psychoeducational assessment looks at thinking and learning skills such as reasoning, memory, reading, writing and math. Some people benefit from a combined assessment.

Question 10

What happens in an assessment?

Accepted Answer

Usually an intake interview, questionnaires, one-on-one testing sessions, a feedback meeting and a written report with recommendations.

Question 11

Can adults be assessed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We assess adults for autism, ADHD and learning differences.

Question 12

Will I get a written report?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Most assessments include a full written report. Some adult and ADHD options include a shorter diagnostic letter instead.

Question 13

Do you offer counselling and therapy, or only assessments?

Accepted Answer

Both. We offer individualized counselling for children, teens, adults and families. Our approach is trauma-informed and strengths-based and includes play therapy, CBT and DBT.

Question 14

What is the difference between a psychologist, an RCC and an RSW?

Accepted Answer

All three are regulated professionals who provide counselling. Registered Psychologists can also diagnose and complete psychological assessments. Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC) and Registered Social Workers (RSW) provide counselling and therapy. The best choice depends on your needs and your insurance.

Question 15

How do I choose the right counsellor?

Accepted Answer

Fit matters most. Book a free 15-minute consult and our intake team will recommend someone whose experience and style suit you.

Question 16

What happens at the first appointment?

Accepted Answer

We get to know you, talk about what brings you in, review consent and privacy, and start to set goals together.

Question 17

What is play therapy?

Accepted Answer

Play therapy uses toys, art, sand tray and storytelling to help children express feelings and work through experiences in their natural language: play.

Question 18

How much does an assessment cost?

Accepted Answer

Assessments range from $1,175 to $4,700 depending on the type. See our fees page for full details.

Question 19

Is it covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

Most extended health plans and EAPs cover services from our professionals. Coverage varies by plan.

Question 20

Do you direct bill?

Accepted Answer

Our Alberta clinic direct bills Green Shield, Alberta Blue Cross, Manulife and Equitable Life.

Question 21

Can I use BC Autism Funding or Alberta FSCD?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our private autism diagnoses can be used to apply for BC Autism Funding, and we are an FSCD vendor and Child and Family Services contractor in Alberta.

Question 22

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

24 hours' notice for counselling sessions and five business days' notice for assessment appointments.

Question 23

Is what I share confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your information is kept private and secure, within the limits set by law, which we explain at your first appointment. With your consent, our team members may share information with each other so your care stays connected.

Question 24

Should I share health details in the contact form?

Accepted Answer

Please do not. Use the contact form for general questions only. Clinical information is collected securely through our booking system.

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