Psychologists
This section takes a look at psychologists sometimes called psychotherapists, fees, your rights and much more.
What is psychology?
Psychology is the study of:
- Human processes
- Human behaviour
- Human changes
The term psychology is derived from psyche and logos.
Psyche means:
- The soul
- Life's breath
- The mind
The psyche is symbolized by a beautiful butterfly in Greek mythology.
Logos means:
What about training?
Psychologists trained in psychotherapy will have studied psychology at university. They are not medical doctors.
Once they have completed their degrees, psychologists have to undergo further postgraduate training in clinical psychology before being registered. Most practising psychologist have constant 'supervision' to ensure a high standard of treatment.
What about fees?
Fees may vary widely between psychologists. In many parts of Canada fees are waived if you are referred to a psychologist by your family physician, but you may be oriented to a specific psychologist, clinic or hospital. Many private insurance groups will also cover their fees. You should enquire about your coverage before your first visit.
What should you bear in mind when choosing a psychologist or a psychotherapist?
When choosing a psychologist, (someone who has a Phd in psychology) you may want to contact the local provincial psychologist association to make sure the psychologist you have chosen is a licensed one.
If you choose a psychotherapist, (someone trained for example in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and or Interpersonal Therapy ect...) you should make sure you find one with a professional background. "Psychotherapist" is not a protected title, which means that anyone can call himself or herself a "Psychotherapist" - training or no training. The same goes for "Counsellor". It is therefore important that you find a psychotherapist who has undergone the proper training, and who can assess your problem with:
Ask your psychotherapist about his or her training.
Where do you find a psychologist?
Your family physician may be able to recommend a psychologist.
You may also find psychologists in your area listed in the Yellow Pages.
Do psychologists have to observe a duty of confidentiality?
Yes they do. This will guarantee your peace of mind:
- Your family will not have access to information about you from your psychologist
- Your family physician will not have information about you from your psychologist without your written consent
However, the above does not apply if your psychologist discovers that you have planned to take your life. Where this is the case, he or she will try to persuade you to be admitted into care. If you refuse, he or she may need to contact a doctor at a hospital to have you assessed.
Your psychologist has a duty to tell you what he or she is doing. This means that he or she may not contact others without telling you first.