Financial Matters
How much will it cost?
I follow the rates recommended by the Psychologists' Association of Alberta. Currently the rates are $220 for a 50 minute session. To view the fee schedule, please visit the PAA website at http://www.psychologistsassociation.ab.ca/site/recommended_fee_schedule. Often people have extended health care insurance that will cover these fees in whole or in part. As well, other work or government plans may be able to be accessed. Please phone me to discuss any specific questions.
Do you take credit or debit cards?
Yes. Payment can be made by debit, cheque or cash. I can also direct bill some insurance companies.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to change or cancel your appointment, I require 24 hours notice or you are responsible for the fee. However, I will do my best to fill your appointment time and if I can fill your time slot I will not charge you. So, it is important to give me as much notice as possible. If you provide more than 24 hours notice you will not be billed for the time whether I fill it or not. For Monday appointments you can leave your message on the weekend as my voicemail will assign the time to confirm that the 24 hours notice was provided.
How do I know if I have coverage through a private insurance company?
If you have a plan that covers things like prescriptions and eyeglasses then you may have coverage for a Registered Psychologist as well (e.g., Blue Cross, SunLife, Great West Life, Manulife are some examples). Plans vary considerably so you will need to call your insurance carrier directly. When you contact your extended health care company, ask the following questions:
- Is there coverage for a psychologist?
- How much is covered per session?
- How much is allowed per year?
- When is the "roll over" date...the date the next year starts (some plans start with a new amount of coverage according to the calendar year but other plans follow different dates)
- For marital counselling, are both partners eligible for that amount or do they have to share it? Does it matter how the receipts are written for marital counselling (one receipt with both names or just to one person?)
- Is there a Health Benefit Spending Account that can be accessed for additional coverage?
Do you direct bill private insurance companies?
I am able to direct bill Blue Cross and, may be able to direct bill some other plans. If I cannot direct bill your plan, I will issue you a receipt to submit to your provider for reimbursement. If being out of pocket the money while waiting for reimbursement is an issue, please speak to me directly and we can make other arrangements. I do directly bill some organizations (see information regarding preferred providers below).
Are you an approved or preferred provider?
Yes. I am a Registered Psychologist with a PhD and all insurance companies have accepted my credentials. I am an approved provider and can direct bill:
- Veteran’s Affairs Canada
- Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
- Canadian Armed Forces (CAF)
- Edmonton Police Services
- Alberta Medical Association (for physicians and family members; referral through program required)
- Disability Claims with prior approval (e.g., Great West Life, SunLife, ManuLife)
- Blue Cross
I am in the process of arranging direct billing for other companies so if you have questions about your company, please contact me for more information. If I cannot direct bill your provider, I can provide a receipt for you to submit for reimbursement.
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