Faqs

1. Can I refer myself to your service?
No, we are referral based. You must be referred to us by a licensed healthcare professional.
2. Do you offer in-person counselling?
No, we are a virtual clinic and therefore, we are unable to provide any in-person care. We recommend having a family physician to ensure you have access to in-person care when needed.
3. How many sessions can I book? How long and how often are they?
All patients have a maximum of 20 sessions - however some physicians may offer less. If a patient requires further counselling after their set number of sessions is completed, there are options that can be discussed at that time. Sessions are generally booked as 30 or 60 minute slots on a weekly or biweekly basis. Some physicians offer monthly appointments. The duration and frequency of sessions is flexible depending on the physician and availability of appointments.
4. What qualifications do family doctors have in providing psychotherapy and counselling services?
Mental health is highly integrated into Family Medicine. Many family doctors provide counselling to their patients as part of their regular practice. Regular family doctor appointments are often limited and may not be solely focused on the patient’s mental health concerns which makes it difficult for patients to get the mental health support they need during that time. Our service is solely focused on mental health.
5. Can you prescribe medications related to my mental health concerns?
Our doctors will make recommendations back to the referring doctor on what medication changes, if any, may be beneficial. This is to ensure continuity of care.
6. What is the screening interview?
The screening interview is a 20 minute phone call that is booked with one of our screeners prior to your first counselling session - it is NOT included in the set number of sessions.The screening interview assists us in determining if our services are appropriate for you. You will be asked questions about your mental health history and your current mental health concerns. The screening interview also assists us in booking you in with a physician that is able to assist you with you mental health concerns.
7. How can you ensure that patient records are stored safely and securely?
We utilize a secure electronic medical record called JaneApp. JaneApp is PIPEDA compliant. You can have full access to these records upon request as these are your property, similar to how it works with any other clinic in Alberta. We do not share your data with any third parties.
8. Why is your service free?
Our services are provided by family doctors who are licensed to work in Alberta. They bill Alberta Health for services rendered to patients. The services they provide are covered under the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) and subsequently, covered for you with a valid Alberta health care card.
9. Can I use a use an out-of-province health care card?
Services that are covered under provincial healthcare plans can vary greatly between provinces. You would have to check with your provincial health authority to see if health services in Alberta would be covered for you. As a general rule, if you can access other medical services in Alberta (ie. see a family physician), then our service should be covered as well. You can email us if you need assistance in this matter.
10. What is your cancellation/rescheduling policy?
To cancel or reschedule your appointment, please call, text, or email us at least 24 hours prior your appointment. A pattern of 2 or more no shows/last minute cancellations/rescheduling are subject to a $100 cancellation fee/a referral back to your referring doctor. This is to ensure fair access to all patients, including those who are on the waitlist. With that being said, we understand that things happen that may be unpredictable. Just give us a heads up when possible.
11. Are there any referrals that you dont accept?
We do not accept patients with acute safety concerns, active suicidality, psychotic disorders including drug induced psychosis, active mania, or uncontrolled schizophrenia. We also do not accept patients under the age of 16.

Faqs

1. Can I refer myself to your service?

2. Do you offer in-person counselling?

3. How many sessions can I book? How long and how often are they?

4. What qualifications do family doctors have in providing psychotherapy and counselling services?

5. Can you prescribe medications related to my mental health concerns?

6. What is the screening interview?

7. How can you ensure that patient records are stored safely and securely?

8. Why is your service free?

9. Can I use a use an out-of-province health care card?

10. What is your cancellation/rescheduling policy?

11. Are there any referrals that you dont accept?

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