Frequently Asked Questions
Below are a few frequently asked questions that you may or may not know. If you have a question that is not answered below, contact us at 1 (204) 505-0325, and one of our representatives will gladly help.
As a multidisciplinary practice, we provide a wide range of services related to psychological, emotional, and physical health and wellness. We work with individuals of all ages, couples, families, and groups. We also provide workshops, professional development training, and seminars on a variety of current topics and issues related to health and wellness.
- The main distinction among these three professional groups is the years and area of university training that they have received.
- A professional counsellor has usually obtained a Master’s degree in psychology or a related field, while a psychologist has received a PhD in psychology.
- A psychiatrist has completed a medical degree, with a specialization in psychiatry.
- Psychologists and counsellors are not covered by Manitoba Health, but psychiatrists are.
- Registered psychologists most counsellors and psychotherapists are covered by most extended health insurance plans.
- Please check with your insurance provider to verify your coverage.
Psychotherapy is the therapeutic interaction between a trained mental health professional and a client or patient. The term psychotherapy is often used interchangeably with counseling or just therapy, as all interactions address problems that are psychological in nature. Psychotherapy is typically provided by practitioners with training and education in such areas as psychiatry, psychology, clinical social work, counselling, marriage and family therapy, and occupational therapy.
All of the professionals who offer psychotherapy at Birch Wellness Center have obtained advanced university degrees and have received extensive supervised clinical experience in their chosen fields. Many of us have been working for decades in our chosen fields of practice.
You do not need a referral from a physician in order to see one of our specialists unless they have specifically asked for it. However, a referral may be required by your insurance provider. Check with your insurance provider before booking an appointment in order to avoid any unnecessary delays in reimbursement.
Fees range according to each specialist’s training and level of experience, from $60 (for a supervised practicum student) to $225 per hour (for a Registered Clinical Psychologist).
Many of us offer a sliding scale or a payment plan for those with limited financial resources. Please ask your specialist about their fee and billing policies.
Most insurance plans will cover clinical psychologists, certified counsellors and psychotherapists, clinical social workers and physiotherapists. Some plans will cover osteopaths and acupuncturists. It is best to check with your insurance provider to determine exactly what coverage you have.
No, we are not an in-patient or residential treatment center. We only provide out patient, private services.
Payment can be made by cash, cheque, VISA, Mastercard, or Debit. Unless direct billing to an insurance company has been arranged with your specialist, we request that all fees be paid at the time of service and a receipt will be issued which can be submitted to insurance companies for reimbursement. Please ask your specialist about their fees and payment policy.
There are two ways to book an appointment with one of our practitioners. You can call our office at 204-505-0325, extension 100 and speak to Edward Van, our Office Assistant. He will forward any requests for appointments directly to the practitioner requested. If you are a new client looking for services, you will be directed to our Office Assistant or to Louise Blanchard, our Founder, to determine who would be best to meet your specific needs.
What is your cancellation policy?
For most of us, there is no charge for a cancellation made at least 24 hours before the time of an appointment. Sessions cancelled the day of the appointment are usually billed at half the agreed fee, except in the case of emergencies. A no show will be billed at the full rate. Please discuss the cancellation policy with your practitioner.
Some practitioners offer evening and weekend appointments. Please speak to your practitioner about their hours. Many practitioners also offer virtual or phone sessions for those who are unable to meet in person.
For most of us, there is no charge for a cancellation made at least 24 hours before the time of an appointment. Sessions cancelled the day of the appointment are usually billed at half the agreed fee, except in the case of emergencies. Please discuss the cancellation policy with your specialist.
Given our downtown location, we are often asked about parking availability. There is usually parking on CarltonStreet, or on the adjacent streets (Assiniboine, Hargrave, Edmonton, or Broadway). There is a public parking lot on the corner of Edmonton and Broadway, about half a block from our building. All parking in the area is pay by the hour.
You must use the App PayByPhone to set up a payment account as there are no longer machines available to accept payment. Please note – the parking lot at the back of our building is for our staff only. Please do not park there or you will be asked to move your vehicle.
Balance, Health, & Well-Being
Make an appointment (204) 505-0325, we are here to help.