Can I access services if I’m not pregnant or postpartum?

Yes- please feel welcome. We have specialized training in perinatal psychology, but we are also well-versed in general mental health and health psychology. We also see clients trying to conceive or coping with loss as well as parents who are well past the first year postpartum.

Booking your appointment

Referrals are not required to book an appointment at The Well Parents Centre; however, some extended health insurers require a physician’s referral for coverage of psychological services. It is recommended that you check with your insurer prior to attending your first appointment.

If you are interested in starting psychotherapy or couples therapy, we have a wonderful team of therapists. We recommend starting by looking at bios to see who stands out as a great fit for you. We are also very happy to assist in matching you with the most appropriate therapist. To do this, please contact us with a little information about the issue(s) you are hoping to work on. We can be reached by email at info@wellparentscentre.com, by filling out the contact form or by calling us at 416-488-9355. Dr. Waxman or Dr. Satin will get back to you as soon as possible with therapist recommendations and availability.

How do I choose between different types of therapists?

Our therapy team is comprised of registered psychologists, registered psychotherapists, registered social workers, and a registered occupational therapist. It be can be confusing to figure out the differences among providers and to choose which one is best for you. At The Well Parents Centre, our therapists have different educational and training backgrounds, but all are highly trained, experienced, and passionate about perinatal mental health. A chart that compares the education, training, and scope of practice across different types of mental health practitioners can be found here. A practical consideration is to find out which type of provider(s) is covered under your particular insurance plan's extended health benefits.

We also have a registered nurse and IBCLC lactation consultant who offers lactation consultation and sleep consultation.

The first appointment

The initial appointment is used to gather information about your presenting difficulties and relevant background information. This information is used to formulate an appropriate plan for treatment. A detailed interview will be conducted, and if needed, brief psychological tests will be administered.

Sessions are currently offered by secure video (OWL) or telephone.

Session information

Sessions are 50 minutes long and typically occur on a weekly or biweekly basis. Regular sessions allow for development of the therapeutic relationship and consistent movement toward achieving therapy goals. Frequency of sessions will eventually be tapered off as you become more proficient at applying the skills and techniques learned in therapy. The treatment plan including frequency of sessions is discussed by the therapist in collaboration with the client.

Fees & payment

Psychological services and psychotherapy services are not covered by OHIP; however, many clients have extended health benefits through employee or private health insurance plans. These plans are likely to provide full or partial covered for services provided by a registered psychologist. Psychological services and psychotherapy services that are not covered by an insurance plan may be claimed as a tax deductible medical expense. Your therapist will discuss the fee with you prior to your first visit.

Payment for sessions is required at the end of each session. You will be provided with a receipt that you can submit for reimbursement to your insurance company, or the receipt can be saved for tax purposes. We accept credit cards or e-transfers.

Late cancellations or missed appointments

If you have to change or cancel an appointment, please notify us as soon as possible to avoid a late cancellation fee. We charge the full hourly rate for appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours notice. Please note that we will waive the cancellation fee for extenuating circumstances such as illness, but this will be determined on a case-by-case basis by your therapist. The fee is not meant to be punitive. The 24 hours notice provides an opportunity to offer the open appointment slot to other clients, which would not be feasible to do at the last minute.

Can I bring my baby to my session?

Absolutely. We welcome you to bring your baby to all or some of your appointments. This applies to in-person sessions when offered, as well as virtual therapy. Some clients note that it is distracting for them, and opt to find childcare during their appointment. Please make this decision based on your own needs, and know that we do not mind any fussing or crying, or attending to your baby’s needs.

Is therapy available in languages other than English?

We have therapists who offer therapy in Hebrew, Albanian, and Cantonese.