What are your rates?

In accordance with the recommended rates for registered psychologists, as provided by the Association of Psychologists in Nova Scotia (APNS), fees are as follows:

• $225 for individual therapy (50 minute session)

• $245 for couples counselling (50 minute session)

Why a 50 minute session?

It is standard practice for the clinical hour to be 50 minutes in duration, to allow the psychologist to write any notes and do any necessary follow up within the client’s allocated time.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes! I can direct bill for most common insurance companies, including Blue Cross, Canada Life, Manulife, Desjardins, and others. When in doubt, reach out and I can confirm whether or not I can direct bill for your treatment. If not, you will receive an invoice at the end of your session which you can most likely claim directly with your insurance provider.

I recommend checking with your insurance provider about what coverage is available to you ahead of time. Unfortunately I cannot check these details for you.

What payment methods do you accept?

I accept Visa and Mastercard payments, as well as e-transfers, which can be made to lindsaymcneilwellness@gmail.com

What’s your cancellation policy?

If you are unable to attend a session, please make sure you cancel at least 24 business hours beforehand. Otherwise, you will be billed for the full rate of the session.

Sufficient notice will allow another client to be booked during the time that was reserved for you. Monday appointments must be cancelled no later than 12:00 pm noon on Friday, and appointments scheduled on the first day following a holiday must be cancelled no later than 12:00 pm noon on the last business day before the holiday. The cancellation fee will be waived in exceptional, unforeseen, and uncontrollable circumstances, such as serious illness or a personal emergency, at your psychologist’s discretion. 

Please be advised that should you cancel within the 24 hours, your receipt will be labeled as a missed appointment and most insurance companies do not cover the cost of missed appointments.

Do I need a referral from my family doctor?

No. A referral is not required to seek psychological services, although you may want to double check with your insurance provider as to whether they require a referral in order to process payments.

Can a psychologist prescribe medication?

No. If you require a medication prescription or refill then I would recommend starting with your family doctor, or seeking a referral to a psychiatrist for further assessment and management.

Do you offer after hours and/or weekend appointments?

No. I currently do not offer any after hours or weekend appointments.

How does telepsychology work?

In my experience, virtual therapy can be just as effective as in person, and in some instances can work even better for clients, who are not required to travel to their appointment, and can join from anywhere.

You will receive a video link to your email provided, within an hour of your scheduled appointment time. It is recommended that you try this link out prior to your first appointment so that any necessary allowances can be given, and this doesn’t take away from time in your session.

There is a risk that services could be disrupted or distorted by unforeseen technical problems. Although precautions are taken to prevent this, unfortunately any missed time due to connection difficulties will not be able to be made up, unless arranged with the clinician directly.

To ensure confidentiality, and to minimize the risk of being overheard by anyone near you, I recommend going to a private room and using headphones, if possible. Your psychologist will conduct the session from a private and secure space, and also take any necessary precautions to maintain your confidentiality.

Do you offer any in-person sessions?

If this is your strong preference, or virtual feels like a significant deterrent for you, please reach out. I would love to talk to you further.