Sessions

Most appointments are scheduled at least a week in advance and typically last 50 minutes, leaving 10 minutes for record keeping and any additional business such as completing insurance forms. Group sessions usually last longer. In some circumstances we provide "house calls" to our clients in their own homes, an approach that we have found to be efficient, effective and convenient.

Fees

Unfortunately, O.H.I.P. does not pay for psychologists’ private services. We set our fees according to the guidelines set by the Ontario Psychological Association (OPA).

Some extended health insurance plans will reimburse all or part of the fees paid to a psychologist. Also, Revenue Canada has ruled that non-reimbursed fees paid to a registered psychologist in Ontario may be claimed as medical expenses on your income tax return.

Extended health care insurance plans differ considerably in the types of coverage they provide. Please check your plan carefully to see what the coverage is for psychological services, the claim procedure, details required on receipts, payment options and whether or not you will require a letter of referral from your physician.

Payment

Payment for services is due at the end of each session and a receipt will be given when payment is received. Please retain these receipts for your insurance or income tax claim, if applicable.

We strongly prefer that fees be paid at the end of each session. This payment option eliminates the problem of an accumulation of a large bill for services that can become a burden and a barrier to effective treatment.

In some circumstances, we will bill a third party (insurance company, W.S.I.B.) directly for the services you receive. However, this option is only available if the third party authorizes the treatment in advance and agrees in writing to pay for it.

While we are willing to issue receipts for each payment you make, most insurance companies prefer to reimburse on the basis of monthly statements. Consequently, we provide monthly statements that show the dates of all appointments, the services provided, the fees charged, and the payments received. These statements are accepted by Revenue Canada if you claim my fees as medical expenses for income tax purposes.

Cancelled or Missed Appointments

Unless you cancel 24 hours before a session, the full fee will be charged for the missed appointment.