Policies
Payment for Services
Payment for services is due at the end of each session. I will provide a receipt suitable for insurance and tax purposes upon receiving payment. I accept credit card payments, and a credit card must be on file to book an appointment. If you prefer to pay by another method, such as e-transfer, please contact me.
Other services:
Letter or Note (1 page) - $25
File Transfer or Treatment Summary (<25 pages) - $50
Insurance & Tax Information
Most extended health insurance plans cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a registered social worker. However, coverage can vary widely. Please check your insurance plan for specific information regarding your level of coverage. If you are a post-secondary student, your institution may have mental health benefits that cover a portion of the session fees. Please connect with your institution’s wellness centre for details.
You can include counseling services from a Registered Social Worker (RSW) as a medical expense on your income tax return. In other words, RSWs are now classified as “medical practitioners” for the purpose of claiming medical expenses.
Cancelled or Missed Appointments
To maximize the effectiveness of services, clients should prioritize their sessions. I require a 24-hour notice for appointment cancellations. A full session fee will apply to missed and cancelled appointments that do not meet our 24-hour cancellation policy. Additionally, a full session fee will be applied to assessment appointments cancelled less than 72 hours in advance.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality Policy for Social Workers in Ontario
At my practice, I prioritize your privacy and adhere strictly to the confidentiality guidelines set by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). Here’s what you need to know:
1. Privacy and Confidentiality
Your personal information, case notes, and anything shared during sessions are kept strictly confidential.
2. Informed Consent
I will always obtain your informed consent before sharing any information with third parties. You will be fully informed about what information will be shared, with whom, and for what purpose. A signed document is required by clients before sharing.
3. Exceptions to Confidentiality
Risk of Harm: If there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, I may need to disclose certain information to prevent harm.
Child Protection: I am mandated to report any suspicions of child abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities.
Court Orders: I may be required to disclose information if ordered by a court.
Professional Consultation: I may consult with supervisors or other professionals for guidance while minimizing your identifying information.
4. Record Keeping
All records are securely stored to prevent unauthorized access, in compliance with relevant privacy legislation such as the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA).
5. Ongoing Confidentiality
My commitment to your confidentiality continues even after our professional relationship ends. Your information remains protected at all times.
6. Client Awareness
I will inform you about our confidentiality policy and its limits at the start of our relationship, ensuring you understand your rights and the conditions under which your information may be disclosed.
For more detailed information, please refer to the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to contact me.