Ontario Psychologists are pleased to partner with the Mood Disorders Association of Ontario in their ‘Check Up From The Neck Up’ campaign. Registered psychologists are highly trained, regulated health professionals who are experienced with assessing, diagnosing and treating mood disorders such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorders.
Psychologists do not prescribe medications. They provide effective treatments in the form of ‘talk therapy’ to enable clients to understand their difficulties and develop improved ways of managing and overcoming them. These interventions are tailored to their clients’ individual needs. In this way, clients can be assured of receiving the latest and most effective treatments personalized to their specific situations and needs.
Practicing psychologists are also knowledgeable and experienced in the appropriate use of many medications commonly prescribed in the treatment of mood disorders. They work with clients (and their physicians or pharmacists) to ensure appropriate and effective use of prescriptions within the overall treatment. In this way they help clients maximize benefits, minimize adverse effects, and eliminate unnecessary medication use.
Typically the first couple of appointments are used to develop a better understanding of people’s concerns, clarify their goals and jointly create a follow-up plan to achieve these goals. A typical appointment lasts about 50 minutes, although the initial session, which can involve a more in-depth interview and some paperwork, may be slightly longer.
The services of psychologists employed in hospitals, correctional facilities, university or college counseling services, community clinics, social agencies or schools are covered. The services of psychologists in independent practice are not covered by OHIP. Clients pay for these services directly . Many people have extended health benefits through their employment that will cover some portion of these services each year.
These associations can provide online or phone referrals to assist the public in finding a psychologist who can provide mental health counselling and referrals in their area.
Ontario Psychological Association
Phone: 1-800-268-0069
If you live in Ontario, also see our listing of psychologists who are participating in the check up program.
Psychologists’ Association of Alberta
British Columbia Psychological Association
Manitoba Psychological Society
Association of Psychologists of Nova Scotia
Association of Newfoundland Psychologists
Prince Edward Island Psychological Association
Psychological Society of Saskatchewan
L’ordre des psychologues du Quebec
College of Psychologists of New Brunswick (combined with Association of Psychologists of New Brunswick)