Psychotherapy

At one point or another, each of us may experience personal problems of a psychological nature or wish to make our lives richer. Unfortunately, we are not always able to find in ourselves or in those around us the resources necessary to deal with the situation. In such cases, a professional can help us face up to our real problems and find satisfactory solutions.

Definition

A committee of experts in mental health formed by the Office des professions du Québec has defined a psychotherapy as this:

A psychotherapy is a psychological treatment of a mental trouble, behvioral disturbances or ant other problem that brings about psychological pain or distress;  it presents the following caracteristics:

  • a structured process of interaction between a professional and a client;
  • a rigorous initial evaluation;
  • the involvement of therapeutal modalities based on communication;
  • ways that rely on theorical models recognized scientifically and based on proven intervention methods that respect human dignity, laws and deontology rules.

It should encourage significant changes in the client's cognitive, emotional and behavioral status, in his interpersonal system, in his personality, in his health.  This process goes beyond helping someone facing current difficulties or a relation of counsel or support.

Why Should I Go into a Psychotherapy?

Strictly speaking, there are no good or bad reasons for consulting a psychologist. The most frequently mentioned reasons are because one is: 

  • dealing with personal problems;
  • going through a difficult period;
  • experiencing problems in relationships with others;
  • wanting to live life more intensely;
  • facing a decision;
  • feeling a need for a sense of direction in one's life.

All of these reasons, and many more besides, are valid and legitimate. What's more, as is true case with most physical problems, it is better to act sooner rather than later 

Who can practice psychotherapy?

At this time in Quebec, the practice of psychotherapy is not regulated. A recently passed bill by the National Assembly of Quebec, Bill 21, aims to rectify this situation by reserving the practice of psychotherapy to licensed professionals.

When Should I Start a Psychotherapy?

There is no ideal moment to start a psychotherapy.  However, some situations may be signs that it is urgent to consult a professional:

  • when you are not able to do your normal day-to-day tasks;
  • when you experience problems in relationships with others;
  • when you are ahving difficulties getting through a tough time or a trauma;
  • when you are having trouble sleeping;
  • when life itself does have any meaning and there is no hope of change. 

How Much Should a Psychotherapy Costs?

Psychologists offer their services in different settings and their fees often vary accordingly. Psychologists' rates are not set by a legislative agency or by the Ordre des psychologues du Québec. They set their own rates in light of their experience, the region in which they practice, and the scope of the professional service rendered. You should expect to pay between $80 and $100 for a 50-minute psychotherapy session in a private office. 

Currently, most group insurance policies will reimburse at least part of the costs of psychological consultations. It is important that you read your insurance policy carefully to understand the terms and conditions for reimbursement of the costs associated with psychological services. The majority of insurance companies reimburse such fees only when they are provided by a psychologist on the membership roll of the Ordre des psychologues du Québec.

The fees paid to a psychologist for therapy are admissible as a medical expense deduction for income tax purposes upon presentation of the receipts issued by the psychologist.

It is also possible to receive a psychologist's services in a hospital or CLSC. In such cases, the psychologist's fees are paid by the Government. However, you may be placed on a waiting list that involves waiting from several weeks to several months.