Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get referred for services?

You do not need a referral from a doctor or professional. Families are welcome to self-refer by reaching out directly through the contact form or email.

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Are services covered by OHIP or insurance?

Psychological services are not covered by OHIP. However, many extended health insurance plans do provide coverage for services offered by registered psychologists. Please check with your provider to confirm your coverage.

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What is your cancellation policy?

Dr. Waxman requires 48 hours’ notice for cancellations. If less notice is given, the full session fee will be charged.

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How are payments made?

Payment can be made by credit card or e-transfer at the time of the session.

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What are your fees?

Fees vary depending on the type of service provided. Please contact Dr. Waxman via the contact form or e-mail for more information.

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What is the process for scheduling an assessment, consultation, or therapy?

The process begins with a complimentary 15-minute consultation to discuss your concerns and determine whether consultation, assessment, or therapy is the best fit. If it seems that another provider or service may be more appropriate based on your needs, Dr. Waxman will help guide you in understanding the referral process and identifying next steps. If you and Dr. Waxman  decide to move forward, she will walk through the process together and schedule your first appointment.

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How quickly can I receive services?

Dr. Waxman has availability for therapy and assessment services starting in September 2025. Sessions are offered in-person or virtually on Mondays between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM.

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Do you offer virtual sessions?

Yes, Dr. Waxman offers virtual therapy sessions. She will discuss whether virtual care is a good fit for your child or teen, as some concerns are better supported through in-person therapy. For assessments, Dr. Waxman uses a hybrid model. While some parts can be completed virtually, there will be a required in-person appointment to gather information directly from the child or youth.

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Are there any services you do not provide?
At this time, Dr. Waxman does not provide psychoeducational assessments (such as testing for learning disabilities or giftedness) or therapy for eating disorders.

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Before beginning therapy, an initial assessment is completed to understand the child or youth’s needs and determine whether Dr. Waxman's services are the right fit. If another provider, hospital, or community-based program may be more appropriate, she will help guide families in understanding the referral process and identifying next steps.

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Dr. Waxman's goal is always ensure that children, youth, and families are connected with care that best supports their needs.

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What is a health psychologist?

A health psychologist is someone who helps people understand and cope with how physical health and emotional well-being are connected. They may do assessments to better understand how someone is managing emotionally or how their health is affecting their thinking, mood, or daily life. Health psychologists also support families by helping youth and parents adjust to a diagnosis, manage stress or anxiety related to illness, and follow treatment plans. They can help with challenges like pain, fatigue, fears about needles or medical procedures, and difficult emotions such as sadness or worry that can come with being sick or having a loved one who is sick. Their goal is to make health challenges feel more manageable and to support well-being during tough times.

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Health psychology is a recognized area of practice by the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario, meaning health psychologists are specially trained and qualified to assess and support the emotional and behavioural aspects of health and illness in children, youth, and families.

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What’s the difference between a psychologist, psychological associate, psychiatrist, and psychotherapist?

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Psychologist
Psychologists hold a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in psychology and are registered with a provincial regulatory body (e.g., College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario). They complete 6–8 years of graduate education, a 1-year accredited residency, and 1–1.5 years of supervised practice. Psychologists are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health, learning, and behavioural concerns using evidence-based therapies. They can diagnose mental health conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and learning disabilities, but do not prescribe medication.

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Psychological Associate

Psychological Associates are also registered with a provincial regulatory body, such as the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario, but hold a master’s degree in psychology rather than a doctorate. They complete several years of supervised practice and must meet the same rigorous registration standards in their area of practice. Psychological Associates provide many of the same services as psychologists, including assessment, diagnosis, and therapy for mental health and learning concerns. They can diagnose psychological conditions, including learning disabilities, as long as there are no restrictions on their certificate of registration. Like psychologists, they do not prescribe medication.

 

Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MD) who specialize in mental health. They complete medical school and a residency in psychiatry and are licensed by a medical regulatory body, such as the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. Psychiatrists can diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication. While some psychiatrists may offer psychotherapy, most focus on psychiatric assessment and medication management. They often work with individuals experiencing more complex or severe mental health concerns and may collaborate with psychologists or psychotherapists for ongoing therapy.

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Psychotherapist
Psychotherapists provide talk therapy and may hold a master’s or doctoral degree in psychology, counselling, social work, or a related field. In Ontario, they are regulated by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). They help individuals work through emotional and relationship challenges but cannot diagnose or prescribe medication.