How do I make an appointment for my child?

The parent or legal guardian can call our office at (905) 878-6650 to schedule the initial intake appointment. You are required to submit documentation of legal guardianship in case of divorce, adoption, or foster parent.  Please be sure to bring this information to the initial appointment or fax this information to (905) 878-2205 before the initial appointment.

What can I expect at the first appointment?

The initial intake appointment with one of our psychologists is the first part of our assessment and/or treatment that process; this approximately 50 to 60 minute appointment is scheduled with the parents/guardians, the child or adolescent, and the psychologist.  Over the course of the interview, the psychologist will ask you to describe the current problem areas and ask for details about you and your child’s personal history.  These questions will include when your child’s problem started, what makes it better or worse, and how the problem affects your child’s school, social, and family life.  The psychologist may also ask developmental history questions including current stressors and family functioning.

What can I expect on the day of my child’s assessment?

If a psychological assessment is to be completed there are a number of things you and your child can do to prepare.  Please bring supporting documents related to birth, development and medical history, as well as academic progress. Also bring previous assessments, and all final-term report cards and individual education plans, if applicable.  A good night’s sleep the day before the assessment, a good breakfast, snacks and comfortable clothing is all that is required.

What happens to the personal information I shared with a psychologist?

In consulting a practitioner about personal psychological problems, people are often concerned about confidentiality. Information disclosed to a psychologist is confidential and cannot be disclosed without the client consent except under certain specific conditions concerning your child’s safety. In the initial assessment interview, the psychologist will review the limits of confidentiality.

Do I need a referral from my family doctor to make an appointment?

You do not need a referral to see a psychologist in private practice. Clients are welcome to contact the office directly at (905) 878-6650. We do, however, welcome referrals from school teachers, principals, speech and language pathologists, psychologists, family physicians, and pediatricians.