FAQ

No. Referrals are not required for our services.

You can contact us by phone (514-683-3446) or fill out our intake form. Our intake coordinator will help match you with the therapist that will best suit your needs.

The first session(s) will consist of an assessment to allow your therapist to get to know you and better understand the difficulties you face. At this stage of therapy, objectives are clarified and therapeutic goals are collaboratively discussed. You can expect your therapy to change over time as the assessment portion comes to an end and discussions centre on your week-to-week experiences.

This is different for each person. You and your therapist will be able to discuss the frequency and duration of your therapy sessions based on your assessment and ongoing needs. Ideally, we recommend regular sessions. If this is not possible (due to scheduling or financial difficulties) various options can be discussed with your therapist.

Sessions are typically 50–60 minutes.

Counselling West Island is a private clinic with fees. A receipt is provided at the end of the session that may be submitted to your insurance provider. If you have financial concerns and are worried about the cost of therapy, please consult our list of resources.

A psychotherapist is a mental health professional (e.g. Couple and Family Therapist, Criminologist, Social Worker, Counsellor or Registered Nurse) who has trained in psychotherapy and obtained a permit from the Ordre des Psychologues du Quebec (OPQ) allowing them to practice. Since 2009 the OPQ has regulated the title of Psychotherapist by requiring this accreditation to protect the public. This has resulted in strict and rigorous requirements for those who wish to obtain the permit regarding standards of practice, continuing education and supervision. Psychotherapists cannot diagnose or prescribe medication. 

A psychologist holds a Master’s degree or a PhD (required since 2006). To use the title of psychologist a professional must also be a member of the Ordre des Psychologues du Quebec (OPQ). In addition to counselling, psychologists are qualified to administer psychological assessments and make diagnoses. Psychologists are not able to prescribe medication.

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has chosen to specialize in mental health. They are able to diagnose and prescribe medication. Some psychiatrists also provide psychotherapy. If you have been referred to a psychiatrist, we encourage you to contact your local CLSC to book an appointment.

We ask that both members of the couple attend couple’s therapy sessions. Some therapists may decide to do a limited number of individual sessions when clinically relevant. We find that this approach is most effective in helping couples change the patterns of interaction they find most problematic.