What are the differences between psychiatrists, registered or provisionally registered psychologists, therapists and counsellors?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental and physical health. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication related to mental disorders.
Provisionally registered and registered psychologists are protected professional titles; only those registered with their provincial college are able to call themselves psychologists.
Psychologists are bound by the ethics and regulations set by the college and must adhere to the ethical and professional responsibilities expected of all psychologists.
Registered Provisional Psychologists have completed all academic requirements necessary to become psychologists, and are in the process of completing the required supervision hours of therapy.
Counsellors, therapists or coaches can come from a variety of educational backgrounds and may or may not have a regulatory body of which they are members or with which they are required to comply.
How long will I need to attend therapy?
The length of time required in therapy is dependent on many factors:
the complexity of the concern,
duration, severity, and frequency of sessions,
the number of concerns with which the client wants to address and readiness to create change.
We do our best to work within your time and financial needs to come up with a working plan that fits you.
Do I need therapy?
Summit CS believes everyone can benefit from counselling. Whether you are looking for support on creating more balance in your life, or if you have more serious concerns, therapy can be a very beneficial first step.
What can I expect from my first session?
Making the decision to seek therapeutic services can be a stressful decision. It is normal to have some anxiety when first attending a therapy session. The first step is connecting with us. Text, email or call us anytime. We will get back to you as soon as possible to book a free 10 minute phone consult to learn more about what you are seeking counselling services for. During that phone call an appointment will be scheduled, or if in the instance where Summit CS is not a good fit for you, we will do our best to refer you to another resource better suited to your needs. Once your appointment is booked, your first session with Summit will begin with filling out forms and discussing what you can expect from your therapist during your time with Summit. The therapist will go into detail about their practice methods, will explain the therapeutic process in detail and answer any questions you may have. Your first session is designed to increase your comfort level with our practice and with your therapist. Your goals, your interests and your reasons for seeking out therapy are our number one priority.
What if I do not feel connected with my therapist?
One of the best things about therapy is having a working alliance with another individual to whom anything can be said. We believe a trusting and open relationship with your therapist is crucial to the therapeutic process. We want you to find the best fit for you, and if we are not it, no worries! We will do our best to refer you to a therapist who may be a better fit. Do not hesitate to talk about this with your therapist. We want you to feel as comfortable as possible.
What if I can’t make my appointment?
We require at least 48 hour notice for any cancellations or the full session fee will be charged. Just the same, we understand that life happens. If you need to cancel within less than 48 hours due to an emergency, there will be no fee charged. We just ask for as much notice as possible.
When do I pay for my session?
Payment is due at the end of each session and can be made by cash, e-transfer or credit card. Receipts for benefit claims or tax purposes can be printed or emailed to you at the time of payment.