Question 1

What are the fees for services?

Accepted Answer

Our service fees vary depending on the length and nature of services rendered, and all fees are set in accordance with provincial guidelines suggested for the profession. Please contact us for more information.

Fees for counselling services may be tax deductible, if claimed on your income tax as medical expenses.
 
Payment methods: Cash, EFT payment, Visa, and Mastercard are accepted. Payment is required at the time of your session.

Question 2

Are services covered by my extended health benefits?

Accepted Answer

Most extended health care providers offer full or partial coverage for counselling services. For specific coverage information, it is best to contact your insurance provider.

Please note:
Lindsay is a Registered Clinical Counsellor in the province of British Columbia.
Lindsay is a Registered Psychologist in the province of Alberta.

Question 3

Do you offer direct billing?

Accepted Answer

Under the "Psychologist" designation in Alberta, we provide direct billing to most major insurance companies including Alberta Blue Cross, Canada Life, Green Shield, and Veterans Affairs for Alberta residents/clients.

Unfortunately, direct billing in not readily available for services provided by a "Registered Clinical Counsellor" in British Columbia. 
 
If your insurance company is not set up for direct billing services, a receipt will be provided to you for reimbursement purposes.

Question 4

How do I make an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Please contact us to schedule a free 15-minute telephone consultation. This will help us determine if Lindsay is the best fit for your needs. 
 
Email: lindsay@savvycounselling.ca
Phone: 587-602-2897

Question 5

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

A referral is not required to receive counselling services.

However, your extended health plan may require a referral from your family physician in order to be reimbursed for appointment fees. For specific coverage information, it is best to contact your insurance provider.

Question 6

How long are appointments?

Accepted Answer

We use what is referred to as a 'clinical hour' - 50 minutes for direct services and 10 minutes for charting notes, treatment planning, etc.

Question 7

What is the cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Missed appointments or late cancellations (less than 24 hours' notice) will result in a late cancellation fee equivalent to a full session. Please note that extended healthcare providers typically do not reimburse for cancelled or missed appointments; as such, you may be fully responsible for these fees.

Question 8

What is the privacy policy?

Accepted Answer

In general, the information that you share with us during your appointment(s) is confidential. Legally and ethically, your records are protected, and no information is disclosed without your expressed written permission.
 
There are a few exceptions to this rule, some of which are listed below:
1. If a client makes a serious threat to harm themselves or to harm another individual, the law requires us to try to protect you and/or that person. This may involve calling a loved one, 911 emergency services, or the police.
2. If there is suspected child abuse/neglect, or abuse/neglect of an older or vulnerable adult, we are required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
3. For clients involved with the criminal justice system, clinical records could be subpoenaed for court. 
 
The limits of confidentiality will be included in your intake form to be read prior to your first appointment. We will also review the same with you at your initial appointment.

Question 9

What if I need immediate help?

Accepted Answer

We do not provide emergency crisis services or 24/7 support. If you are in crisis, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Lindsay Nordlof

FAQs