Psychology

The psychologists and psychological associate at the Center for Pediatric Excellence see children over the age of 6, teens, and adults. Our registered psychology clinicians are all trained in completing thorough mental health assessments as well as proven therapy techniques.

Click on the links below to learn more about the specific services we offer. 

Here are questions we are often asked about our psychology services along with our answers.

What is the difference between a Psychiatrist and a Psychologist?

It can be confusing to distinguish between the two since both are doctors, both have specialty training in psychiatric conditions, and both may be involved in the assessment and diagnosis of mental illnesses. The primary difference is a psychiatrist is an MD and a psychologist is a PhD. That means that psychiatrists have gone to medical school and can prescribe medications. While some psychiatrists may also do different forms of psychotherapy, it is more common that you would see a psychiatrist for diagnosis and medication management for mental health illness. Psychologists have gone through advanced training and research in the assessment, diagnosis, and non-medication treatment of mental illnesses. You would see a psychologist for psychotherapy, or any other type of talk- or skills-based therapy. Psychologists cannot prescribe medication.

What is the difference between a Psychologist and a Psychological Associate?

Psychological Associates have completed a master’s degree in psychology followed by four years of experience working in the field of clinical psychology. Psychologists have completed a doctoral degree in psychology, which typically includes a one-year internship in clinical psychology. Both completed at least one additional year of formal supervised experience in clinical psychology and passed the same licensing exams. There is no difference in the clinical abilities, types of treatment, assessment, or diagnoses they are allowed to give.

How do I know if I need a psychology or medical assessment?

There is some overlap in services provided by our medical and psychology teams. For example, both can do diagnostic assessments for ADHD and mental health concerns. Psychology assessments can screen for and diagnose learning disabilities and strengths and weaknesses, and can provide counselling services, whereas the medical team can only screen for learning disabilities and recommend counselling resources. Medical doctors can prescribe medication while psychologists cannot. Because the Center for Pediatric Excellence is a multidisciplinary clinic, in many cases we work as a team, and you may see more than one clinician (i.e. psychologist, occupational therapist and/or physician). Medical services are covered by OHIP; psychology and occupational therapy services are not, but may be covered by private insurance

Are any psychology services covered by OHIP?

No. None of our psychology services are eligible for OHIP coverage. If you have supplemental medical coverage through your employer or another source, check your policy or contact your insurer to see what may or may not be covered and the rates of coverage. Although no referral is needed to book an appointment with our psychologists, in order to be reimbursed by your insurance, you may require a doctor’s referral.

How much will it cost?

All of our psychology services cost $225 per hour. The total cost will depend on the number of hours required to complete the assessment or treatment. If booking an assessment, you will be provided an estimate before confirming the booking.

Will you do direct billing?

No. You will be issued a bill for services received that is due at the conclusion of the appointment. You will need to submit receipts to your insurer for reimbursement following payment.

My child is under 6. Can they be seen for treatment or assessment?

None of our psychology clinicians can provide therapy or assessments for children 5 or under. If your child is turning 6 and you would like them to be added to our waitlist for after their 6th birthday, please make note of that in your request. Our medical team does see younger children.

Are services offered in French?

Unfortunately, we are not able to offer treatment or assessments in French. We are unable to complete psychoeducational assessments for students in the French Language school board.

Do I need a doctor’s referral?

No. Psychology services are not covered by OHIP, so we do not require a referral from a physician. However, your insurance company may require a referral for reimbursement.

How do I book an appointment?

You can request a booking or find out more information through: