​​What is a Registered Psychologist and what do they do?
A Registered Psychologist (R. Psych.) is a licensed professional with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology or a related field, trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health issues and psychological disorders. They use evidence-based therapies to help individuals manage mental health concerns and disorders. They may work in private practice, hospitals, schools, or research settings, providing therapy, psychological testing, and consultation services. Some psychologists, like Dr.'s St. Pierre and Robinson, also work in academic/university settings conducting research, teaching, and training the next generation of psychologists.
​​​
Are virtual sessions available?
Yes, the West Coast OCD and Anxiety Clinic provides entirely virtual services. Sometimes OCD and anxiety are best treated virtually as we have access to spaces where clients typically endure their anxiety or OCD symptoms (e.g., at home, leaving home). Research suggests that the effectiveness of online psychological services is equal to traditional in-person sessions. However, this may vary based on personal preferences and treatment needs. If online sessions do not suit your preferences, your psychologist will help connect you with services that better suit your needs.
​
What platform does the clinic use for videoconferencing? Is my data safe and secure?
All video calls are conducted through the Jane application which is a secure, encrypted online Canadian health platform. All data is stored within Canada so as to comply with the current legal and ethical privacy standards of Canada and British Columbia. The JaneApp ensures a high level of professional integrity and care.
​
I live in another province. Can I be treated in the West Coast OCD and Anxiety Clinic virtually?
Dr.'s Robinson and St. Pierre only provide virtual services to individuals currently in British Columbia as per the Code of Conduct of the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC.
​
Do I need a referral?
​In most cases, a referral from your family physician is not required to see a psychologist—you can directly contact the clinic to book an appointment. However, if your extended medical plan covers psychological services, your insurance provider may request a referral letter before treatment begins.
​
Is the clinic accepting new clients? Is there a waitlist?
Yes, the clinic is accepting new clients. ​There may be a waitlist. Please reach out to determine wait times. ​
​
What are the fees? How can I pay?
Fees are set in accordance with provincial guidelines suggested for the profession and are $245 for a 50-minute therapy session. We accept e-transfer, credit card, and do direct billing to some insurance companies, but not all.
​
Does the clinic take insurance/extended benefits or MSP?
We do direct bill some insurance/extended benefits companies (e.g., Pacific Blue Cross, Manulife, CanadaLife). Please check with our team to determine whether we direct bill your insurer. Some extended health benefit plans cover some/all of the cost to see a psychologist. ​Clients should consult with their insurance provider regarding the nature and limits of any extended health benefits. We will provide you with a receipt after each session. In British Columbia, services by private psychologists are not covered under the Medical Services Plan (MSP).
​
What can clients expect during a first appointment?
During your first and second therapy sessions, your clinician will gather information about your background, including relevant medical and mental health history. You will discuss your current mental health concerns, how long you have been experiencing them, any treatment goals you may have, and coping strategies you’ve tried. In the third session, you will have a clearer understanding of your treatment plan, including the approach that will be used and an estimated number of sessions.
How long are appointments? Are the meetings confidential?
​Therapy appointments are 50 minutes long. This is the standard clinical hour, with 10 minutes for notes and required documentation at the end of each session. All meetings with are strictly confidential. There are limits to confidentiality that your clinician will explicitly discuss with you.
​
How many sessions will I need?
The duration of treatment varies for each client and depends on factors such as symptom severity, the number of concerns, treatment frequency, and commitment to therapy. West Coast OCD and Anxiety emphasizes short-term therapy, focusing on equipping clients with practical skills to enhance their well-being and get back to living fully as soon as possible. While many clients experience significant progress within 12-20 sessions, some may see results sooner, and others may benefit from longer-term support. We recognize that time and cost are often barriers to engaging in therapy and we will discuss your individual circumstances with you.
​
What days and hours is the clinic open?
We see clients virtually on weekdays between 8am-5pm. Our OCD group may run at a later time in the day.
​
What is the clinic's cancellation and no-show policy?
As your appointment time is reserved just for you, please provide 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, otherwise the regular appointment fee will be charged. You will be charged a full session fee if you do not attend your appointment. Extenuating circumstances may apply so please contact your clinician to discuss your situation.
​
How do I get in touch with West Coast OCD and Anxiety?
Please see the Contact page.
​
​
If your questions haven't been answered, please contact us directly.