Electronic Communication and Information
Electronic Communication and Information
About Emailing: Email is not guaranteed to be confidential. Do not communicate sensitive information via email. By choosing to email, you are agreeing that you understand that e-mail is not 100% secure and that confidentiality and security cannot be guaranteed. In requesting a response via email, you consent to Riverdale Centre Psychological Services and its providers communicating with you by email, with the understanding that even though our email is encrypted, email poses security risks that threaten confidentiality (e.g., other people reading your messages, hacking, lost or stolen devices, technical support troubleshooting, etc.). If you prefer a response in another format (e.g., phone), please indicate your preference in your email message. Emails may be included in client health records. This includes all communication from either parent/guardian in the case of a minor. Email or secure messaging is not a substitute for sessions. If you need to be seen, please book an appointment.
Standard Response Time: Email is not usually checked outside of regular working hours, on holidays, or during vacation. Riverdale Centre Psychological Services endeavours to respond within 3 working days to client emails and to messages requiring a brief response. Other emails are typically responded to within 5 working days of receipt.
Our practice uses an online system called the Client Portal that allows for a secure, online connection between you and your psychologist. This includes secure messaging, appointment reminders, video conferencing, and payment methods. Initial login information will be provided including a temporary password, to be changed upon first login. Please do not email sensitive or personal health information via email. Our Client Portal provides an alternative for confidential and secure messaging with your provider and our office staff. Email or secure messaging is not a substitute for sessions. If you need to be seen, please book an appointment. All clients are setup with Client Portal access, and you will receive information on setting this up after your initial consult with one of our psychologists. Please contact our administrative staff (admin@riverdalecentre.ca) for additional information.
Reminders of appointments are automatically sent via email and/or SMS through our online system.
We do not use text messages as a method of communication outside of appointment reminders. Cell phones can be lost, stolen or texts seen. The identity of the person texting is unknown, as someone else may have possession of your cellphone.
Do not use email for emergencies. If you are in an emergency situation: For mental health emergencies and/or if safety is a concern that requires immediate attention, please dial 911 or proceed to your closest hospital emergency department. You can also access support through the Mental Health Crisis Line at 1-888-429-8167.