Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a Registered or Candidate Registered Psychologist?
Registered psychologists are fully licensed with the Nova Scotia Board of Examiners in Psychology (NSBEP). Candidate registered psychologists are in the process of becoming fully registered with NSBEP and are supervised as part of this process. In both cases, psychologists are qualified to examine the behaviour of adults and children, diagnose psychological and emotional disorders, and provide therapy and counselling to individuals, families or groups. Psychologists use a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches that often involve “talk therapy” to achieve more effective personal, social, and vocational development.
Who is a Social Worker?
Social Workers are registered professionals that help individuals, families, and communities to better their wellbeing and develop the required skills to resolve problems. In private practice, Social Workers provide their clients with counselling, psychotherapy, mediation, among other services to help them be successful.
Who is a Psychiatrist?
A psychiatrist is a fully licensed medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of mental health conditions. They provide proper medication management as part of the treatment of mental health conditions.
Please note that the psychiatric services offered at True North are not open to the public. We do not accept physician or self-referrals for psychiatric services, unless you are starting a claim with a governmental organization that supports veterans. Psychiatric services are only available to Veterans and pre-approved specialty groups.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions that are required to help resolve a specific issue depends on your individual needs. This will be discussed during your first appointment. Some clients may benefit from 2-3 sessions while others may require 10-12. The frequency of your sessions can also be discussed with your therapist. For example, some clients may find it beneficial to come in once a week, while others may find bi-weekly or monthly sufficient.
Is counselling & therapy worth it?
Although your clinician will provide support, making personal changes can involve addressing unpleasant feelings and topics. Making such changes can be rewarding, significantly improving the quality of your life. Without treatment your concerns may resolve on their own, return periodically, stay the same, or even deteriorate. Your psychologist can give you more information about the risks and benefits involved in you receiving or not receiving psychological treatment and counselling. Your psychologist can also advise you on alternative methods for dealing with your concerns. In most circumstances, assessment and treatment are voluntary and you may refuse or withdraw at any time without prejudice. Your psychologist will inform you if any exceptions to this apply and, if so, advise you of your options.
Will I have to pay HST?
No, psychology services are tax-exempt.
Will I be charged if I miss a session?
We ask that you give us 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or change your appointment, this way we can fill the appointment time with someone from our waiting list. Of course, we realize that mistakes do happen and emergencies arise. We will waive the fee for one missed appointment. However, missing future appointments may lead to being charged a cancellation fee at the discretion of the clinician.