FAQ

Counsellors are mental health professionals who have a diploma or college or university degree in a mental health-related field such as psychology or professional counselling. Counsellors mostly work in private practice either independently or with other counsellors. Counsellors may be regulated by a professional body, such as a college or association.

It is important to know that the title ‘counsellor’ is not protected and can be used by anyone, even those without training. Be sure your counsellor is registered with a professional association or regulatory college to ensure they have professional oversight.

Psychologists are mental health professionals who have a masters degree or a doctorate degree in clinical psychology or counselling psychology. Psychologists are trained in therapy, psychological theories, and research. Psychologists provide therapy and assessments. Psychologists can work in private practice, university counselling centers, teach at universities or colleges, or in hospitals. Psychologists are regulated by the provincial board or college of psychologists where they practice.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental and behavioral health. Psychiatrists can prescribe medications, do therapy, and diagnose mental disorders. In Nova Scotia, only a psychiatrist can involuntarily admit someone to the hospital (commonly thought of as ‘being committed’ or ‘being admitted’).

No. Psychological assessments and diagnosis are protected healthcare services in Nova Scotia and can only be completed by a licensed medical doctor or psychologist.

Yes, mostly. Anything we talk about is confidentiality and private, with exceptions as outlined by ethical and legal regulations. Exceptions to confidentiality include:

1. Your counsellor believes you are at immediate risk of hurt yourself or someone else
2. Your counsellor has reasonable suspicion of abuse or neglect of of a child or vulnerable person (e.g., child, elderly, or adult with cognitive impairments),
3. Your counsellor or their records are subpoenaed by the courts or a warrant is produced,
4. The regulatory body audits your counsellor’s files as a need to protect the public,
5. Your counsellor’s clinical supervisor deems there is a need to protect the public

Counselling is usually covered by extended healthcare insurance, such as Blue Cross or Green Shield. Direct billing is not available. Check with your health insurance provider to determine if they cover services provided by Registered Counselling Therapists or Registered Professional Counsellors (clinical counsellors). All receipts have a provider number that can help with insurance verification.

Unlike services provided by psychologists, ‘psychotherapy’ is not a tax-free service in Canada. There are ongoing efforts to have this changed however they are stalled. To determine how to claim counselling fees on your income tax, check with an accountant.

No, To maintain professional and ethical boundaries, my counselling work and research is kept distinctly separate.

To be in compliance with ethical practices, all of my research adheres to the Tri-Council Policy Statement (TCPS2) guidelines as well as the Declaration of Helsinki. The protection of research participants is paramount.

My research is limited to survey research.