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Quick Links:
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Frequently Asked Questions
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- Does needing counselling mean I’m “crazy”?
- What is psychotherapy?
- What is the difference between a Psychiatrist, Psychologist and Psychotherapist?
- Who may want to consider counselling?
- Do I need a doctor’s referral?
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- Does needing counselling mean I’m “crazy”?
I highly doubt it. Being “normal” does not mean having a perfect life but a life with challenges. Sometimes we can deal with them and other times we do not. There are times when we have tried to deal with the issue on our own but we are unable to achieve the desired results. Guess what that means? You are stuck. Welcome to the human race of being imperfect. The solution often involves working with an objective, trained professional who can guide you in a healthier direction. Let me be your guide.
- What is psychotherapy?
There are many misconceptions about psychotherapy. At some point in their life, everyone struggles with something they are unable to address themselves. In essence, they get ‘stuck’. Psychotherapy helps people become “unstuck’. Psychotherapists are trained to be objective, nonjudgmental, and a provider for a confidential atmosphere. Like a sailboat navigator, the psychotherapist guides clients to steer or pursue a healthier course but the clients are still the captain of the sailboat.
Psychotherapy is a way of helping people overcome stress, emotional issues, relationship difficulties or troublesome habits. Psychotherapy addresses personal challenges by providing the opportunity for clients to talk openly and confidentially about their concerns and feelings with a professionally trained individual. Clients can be seen on an individual, couple, family, or group basis for psychotherapy.
- What is the difference between a Psychiatrist, Psychologist and Psychotherapist?
Psychiatrists have a degree in medicine, like your family physician, and then take specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of emotional and behavioural problems. They are able to prescribe medication and their fees are covered by the O.H.I.P. In Ontario, they are licensed by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. Psychiatrists and psychologists have approximately the same number of years of formal training. The basic difference is the kind of training they have received.
Psychologists have a doctoral degree in psychology and specialize in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health issues. They have advanced training in psychotherapy and the science of behaviour change. Although they may have training in the use of medication to treat mental illness, in Ontario they are not licensed to prescribe medication. Psychologists are the only professionals qualified to use certain kinds of psychological tests to assess intelligence, emotional and behavioural problems, and neuropsychological dysfunction. Their fees are covered by private payment, extended medical plans, employee assistance programs, and through government agencies or other special programs. They are licensed by the College of Psychologists of Ontario.
Psychotherapists should possess a master’s degree in psychology but this is not regulated. They should also be affiliated with a professional organization, such as the Ontario Psychological Association (OPA), but this is not a requirement. Thus, reviewing the credentials of a psychotherapist is recommended. A psychotherapist and member of the OPA performs counselling services to address the needs of the individual, couple, group, and family as needed. They are not licensed to prescribe medication. Fees are covered by many extended benefit plans or by private payment, which can be used as a tax deduction.
- Who may want to consider counselling?
- Do I need a doctor’s referral?
No. Just call me directly at (416) 805-6155. If I do not answer right away, I may be with a client but feel free to leave your name and best contact number so that I may call you as soon as possible.
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