FAQ

Do I need a doctor referral?

A doctor referral is not required and individuals may self-refer. However, some extended health programs require a doctor referral to qualify for coverage. Please check with your individual extended health program. With client’s consent, another professional, such as a speech-language pathologist, occupational therapist, physiotherapist, Infant Development or Supported Child Development consultant or teacher may also initiate a referral.

Is there a lengthy waitlist?

Dr. Heaven tries to see families in a timely manner, and depending on their needs, address their concerns as quickly as possible. While families are usually seen on a first come, first seen basis, Dr. Heaven reserves an urgent space in her schedule to accommodate urgent needs.

What should I expect at the first appointment?

Usually Dr. Heaven meets with parents first, to provide an opportunity for parents to speak freely regarding their concerns for their child, to gather background information and to answer any questions regarding the process of assessment or therapy, as well as to obtain informed consent, develop a plan and explain confidentiality assurances and limitations as well as fee schedules. This is also an opportunity to interview Dr. Heaven regarding her experience and therapeutic approaches. Most appointments are an hour in length unless other schedules are requested.

What about confidentiality?

Client confidentiality is an essential component of psychological care. Information shared with Dr. Heaven by children and their parents is completely confidential and will not be shared with anyone without explicit written client consent. Confidentiality is discussed in detail during the initial session. The limits of confidentiality are also discussed in detail and reflect laws designed to protect the safety and well-being of individuals.

What does the course of an assessment look like?

Typically, an assessment commences with the initial parent meeting, and depending on the age of the child and the nature of the assessment questions, will entail gathering information in the form of standardized questionnaires, observation, school visit where appropriate, home visit where appropriate, and several sessions of about one hour to complete a range of standardized assessment measures. The measures employed are determined by the individual client’s needs and assessment questions. This information is scored and interpreted and presented in a feedback meeting to the parent(s) and child, sometimes in separate sessions as appropriate. This includes detailed recommendations to help set up for success for the child, and to foster positive family functioning and may include, where appropriate and at the family’s request, a school-based meeting to share pertinent results and advocate for appropriate school supports. A detailed written report is provided to the client/parents.

How long does it take to complete the assessment?

The length of time to complete an assessment depends on the age of the child and the schedule chosen by the family as well as the complexity of the assessment questions. An older child may be comfortable to complete a couple of sessions in one day and work on consecutive days to complete the assessment within a week. Another family may wish to complete one session every few days or depending on availability, complete one session per week. The feedback session is usually the next planned session time and then the report is usually ready within 2-3 weeks after the feedback session.

How can a psychologist help?

A registered psychologist can help children and their families to cope with difficult challenges and transitions which may occur in daily life. A registered psychologist can also develop strategies and provide education to improve positive parenting effectiveness and support family relationships. A registered psychologist can further provide therapeutic input to promote resilience and better self-esteem, and support youth to navigate peer group challenges. A registered psychologist can address concerns about your child’s learning needs and clarify learning strengths and challenges or address emotional concerns such as worries or fears.