Q & A

How do I access your services?

You can make a referral by sending us an email. Referrals from your medical practitioner or another professional are also welcomed.  All contacts and appointments are kept confidential.

What is the wait time for getting an appointment?

The wait time for an appointment depends on the current caseload of the practice at the time and the services you are requesting. This will be discussed in the initial contact with you.

Are the services covered under my health card?

Our services are not covered by MSI, (Nova Scotia Health Insurance Program); however many insurance plans do cover a portion of the cost of these services. Employee assistance plans of many businesses and corporations may also cover the costs of services.

Clients are responsible for ensuring payment for psychology sessions by either themselves or a third-party payer. Arrangements for payment must be confirmed before services are provided.

Clients are responsible for ascertaining whether services they are receiving are covered by their supplemental health insurance plan and what requirements they must meet for have services covered (e.g., physician referral, etc.).  Questions to ask your insurance provider include:

• What is your coverage for services provided by a psychologist?
• Coverage details:
  • Coverage per person on the plan
  • Coverage per calendar year or rotating year
  • Limits related to each session (e.g., length of time; cost per session)
• Requirements for reimbursement (e.g., what is required on the invoice - broken down by session, flat rates)
• Are there any differences in coverage for psychological assessment vs counselling services

How much does it cost?

The cost of services will be discussed with clients depending on the services needed.  More information about rates and financial policies is available on the Fees page.

What form of payment is accepted?

We accept Debit, Interac e-transfer, VISA and Mastercard.

Do you directly bill third-party payors (e.g., insurance companies)?

Some medical insurance companies allow providers to send invoices and receive payment directly from the company.  This is often called Assignment of Benefits. Riverdale Centre Psychological Services does not provide direct billing to medical insurance companies.  Clients (or payors) are required to pay for all services and submit documentation to their medical insurance companies for reimbursement.

Further discussion regarding direct billing will be had on a case-by-case basis as required.

Do I need consent from the child's other parent to get services?

Legal custody issues will be discussed before any services are provided. Expressed consent is required from both parents for services for children and adolescents at Riverdale Centre Psychological Services.

What about confidentiality?

Sessions are confidential in nature.  There are limits to confidentiality in the case risk of suicide, child abuse, potential harm to others, age or if subpoenaed by a court.  The confidentiality, and limits of it, will be discussed with each client and involved party.