Frequently Asked Questions
important covid-19 information
I am taking the following precautions to protect clients and help slow the spread of the coronavirus:
I am available for virtual sessions through a secure telehealth platform. Virtual sessions can be used for all counselling appointments. For psychological assessments, we can meet virtually for intake appointments, interviews, the final feedback session, and a portion of the assessment with the child or teen online. Please note that for some assessments, it is not recommended to be completed via telehealth because the test is standardized and requires face-to-face meetings. Please call or email to discuss whether the assessment needed for your child can be appropriately and safely conducted at this time.
Asking appropriate screening questions.
Clients and I will wear masks at all times if required by the government.
Clients and I will maintain safe distancing.
At times, I may use a plexi-glass barrier when assessing children and teens face-to-face, especially if masks need to be removed for a particular subtest.
Hand sanitizer and hand washing is available and frequently used in the office.
Credit card pads, pens and other areas that are commonly touched are thoroughly sanitized after each use.
Physical contact (e.g., shaking hands) is not permitted.
Tissues and trash bins are easily accessed.
Please feel free to call or email if you have any questions regarding COVID-19 procedures.
What is a psychological assessment?
A psychological assessment gathers information about a child or youth through a number of means, such as standardized tests, interviews, rating scales, and at times, a home or external observation.
The information gathered helps to better understand their strengths and weaknesses in a number of areas, such as intellectual, academic, social, emotional, and/or behavioural functioning. Sometimes, the results uncover a diagnosis, but most importantly, they provide imperative information for intervention.
What can I expect from a psychological assessment?
There are different types of psychological assessments. Please see the fees page to gain a better understanding of each type that I offer. In general, most assessments include:
A comprehensive interview (approximately one hour) with the parent(s)/guardian(s) to better understand the child/teen.
An online questionnaire for the parent(s)/guardian(s) and the child’s teacher to complete.
Approximately one to four one-on-one appointments with your child to complete the appropriate assessments. Each appointment is between 1-3 hours in length, however the number of appointments and length is dependent on the type of assessment, how quickly we get through the material, and how many breaks are needed.
An optional home or external observation.
An hour appointment discussing the results of the assessment and recommendations going forward.
A written report detailing results and recommendations.
What are the fees?
The fee for counselling is $200 an hour. The fee for an assessment differs based on the type of assessment requested. Each assessment is a flat-rate fee, which works out to be in line with or under the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta and the Ontario Psychological Association’s recommended fee schedule.
Please see the fees page for more information.
Is the assessment covered under my benefits?
Please check with your insurance provider. Many insurance providers offer coverage for psychological services or services provided by a Registered Psychologist. A receipt can be provided for this purpose.
Do you direct bill?
Yes! I can direct bill to a number of insurance providers. Please check with me to see if your provider is one of them.
What is your cancellation
policy?
If you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment, please let me know at least 48 hours in advance to avoid a cancellation fee.
What are your services for Ontario residents?
Relanding is based in Chatham, Ontario. All in-person and virtual services (assessment, counselling, and consultation) are available to children and youth in the Chatham-Kent area (Chatham, Blenheim, Ridgetown, Wheatley, and Dresden).
I currently do not travel to different locations. All clients are required to drive to the Chatham office location for in-person appointments. If you are outside of Chatham-Kent and do not prefer to drive, you may consider virtual services. Please get in touch with me and we can chat about my services and what may work for you and your child.