GRS Psychology: Child & Adolescent Psychological Services in Waterloo

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is child & adolescent psychology?

  Child psychology focuses on understanding the mental, emotional, and behavioral development of children and adolescents. It involves assessing and addressing issues such as anxiety, mood disorders, and behavioral challenges to promote healthy development.

• What types of assessments do you offer?

  We offer comprehensive psychological and psychoeducational assessments, including helping high school and university/college students with the transition to post-secondary education. These evaluations help to better understand cognitive profile and learning style, and help diagnostic clarification to better target empirically-supported intervention strategies. We also offer more targeted neurodevelopmental assessments, including those focused on ASD and ADHD. 

• Do I need a referral from my doctor for these services?

  No. Anyone can self-refer for therapy and assessment services. However, for clients who plan to use their extended-health benefits to cover the cost of the services, their plan might require a physician referral to access that coverage. Clients who plan to use extended-health benefits should check the requirements of their individual plans to see if a physician referral is needed.

• Are services covered by OHIP?

  Psychology, psychotherapy, and assessment are generally not covered by OHIP. Many group health insurance programs through an employer provide some coverage for these services. We provide receipts once payment is received that can by submitted to an insurance provider for reimbursement. Please check with your insurance providers if you have any questions about covered services.

• How long does therapy usually last?

  The duration of therapy varies based on individual needs and goals. Some families benefit from short-term interventions, while others may require ongoing support. We work collaboratively to determine the best approach for your family.

• What is the difference between a psychologist and other mental health professionals?

  Psychologists differ from other mental health professionals in their training, which allows them to provide services that cannot be provided by other mental health professionals. While psychologists and other mental health professionals can provide treatment, such as counselling, psychotherapy, and parental guidance, psychologists are trained to provide assessments and make a diagnosis (such as a diagnosis of a learning disability, neurodevelopmental disorder, or other mental health condition).

• How can therapy help my child?

  Therapy can help your child by providing a safe space to explore their feelings, learn coping strategies, and improve communication skills. Our personalized therapy sessions are designed to address specific challenges such as anxiety and mood disorders.

• How do I know if my child needs psychological services?

  If your child is experiencing persistent emotional or behavioral issues, such as anxiety, mood swings, or difficulty in school, it may be beneficial to seek professional guidance. Our experts can help assess and address these challenges.

• Are your services covered by insurance?

  Many insurance plans cover psychological services. We recommend checking with your provider to understand your coverage options. Our team can provide necessary documentation to assist with claims.

• Can parents be involved in the therapy process?

  Absolutely. We encourage parental involvement to enhance the therapy process. Parent consultations and coaching are integral parts of our approach to improving family dynamics and supporting your child's progress.

• What follow-up support do you provide after assessments?

  Following assessments, we offer detailed feedback sessions and ongoing support to implement recommended strategies. Our team is available for follow-up consultations to ensure your child continues to thrive.