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Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

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Therapy Information

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Assessment Information

General Information

Why choose Dr. Smolewska, C. Psych. & Associates?

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Looking to start therapy can feel overwhelming, but you deserve to be truly heard, understood, and supported. At our practice, we provide a safe and welcoming environment where your experiences are respected and your voice is valued. Our approach is grounded in compassion, validation, and nonjudgement, so you can feel empowered at every stage of your journey. Whether you are navigating challenges or seeking personal growth, we are here to support you. Take the first step toward healing and self-discovery - reach out today, and let's begin this journey together.

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1. We Start By Understanding Who You Are: We see you as a whole person and recognize that you are the expert on your own life. Sometimes, uncovering your own insights just requires a little support. That’s why we begin by truly listening—taking time to understand your experiences, challenges, and strengths. Our goal is to help you find clarity and confidence, all within a compassionate and safe environment.

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2. We Work Together at Your Pace: Building on a foundation of trust, compassion, and non-judgement, we collaborate with you every step of the way. We honor your unique journey by moving at a pace that feels comfortable for you, ensuring that you always feel supported and empowered. Together, we’ll explore your values, clarify your goals, and identify what truly matters most to you. 

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3. We Empower Your Journey: As you gain clarity and confidence, our focus shifts to supporting you in putting insights into action. Whether you’re seeking direction, deeper understanding, or meaningful change, we’re here to help you move forward in a way that aligns with your authentic self. Together, we’ll develop a personalized plan—offering practical strategies, resources, and ongoing support tailored to your unique needs. Our goal is to empower you with the tools and confidence to navigate life’s challenges, so you can experience greater ease, fulfillment, and joy in your everyday life.

What is the cancellation policy?

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Clients are asked to provide at least 48 hours’ notice when cancelling or rescheduling a therapy/counselling appointment. Each appointment time is reserved specifically for the client, and missed appointments reduce availability for others. As our therapists are self-employed and compensated only for completed sessions, late cancellations or missed appointments have a significant impact.

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If less than 48 hours’ notice is given, or if an appointment is missed without notice, the full session fee will be charged. Most insurance providers do not cover fees for missed appointments.

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If attending in person is not possible, clients may request to switch to a phone or virtual session.​​​

Do you do direct billing with insurance companies?

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Yes, we do offer direct insurance claim submissions. However, clients are responsible for confirming their own insurance coverage. If an insurance card is added to the client profile, we can submit claims directly to the insurance company to help minimize out-of-pocket expenses.

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Clients will need to select their insurance company from the list supported by Jane’s TELUS eClaims integration. For insurance companies not yet integrated (such as Blue Cross, Sunlife, and Greenshield), we provide detailed receipts so clients can submit claims on their end.

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Please see the list below for insurance companies we are able to do direct billing for:

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AGA Financial Group Inc.   |   Belairdirect (formerly Johnson Inc.)   |   Beneva Inc.   |   Benefit Plan Administrators (BPA)

Canada Life   |   Canada Life - PSHCP   |   Canadian Construction Workers Union   |   Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance  

CINUP   |   ClaimSecure   |   Coughlin & Associates Ltd.   |   Cowan   |   Desjardins Insurance   |   Equitable   |   First Canadian

GMS Carrier 49   |   GMS Carrier 50   |   GroupHEALTH   |   GroupSource   |   Industrial Alliance (iA)   |   Johnston Group Inc.

LiUNA Local 183   |   LiUNA Local 506   |   Manion   |   Manulife Financial   |   Maximum Benefit   |   MDM Insurance Services Inc.

People Corporation   |   RWAM Insurance Administrators   |   Simply Benefits   |   TELUS AdjudiCare   |   Union Benefits

UV Insurance

Are appointments kept confidential?

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Confidentiality is a key part of your relationship with your assessment or therapy provider. Because assessment and therapy often involve sharing personal and sensitive information, it is important that you feel safe and understood. To ensure you are fully informed, your provider will give you a digital copy of the confidentiality agreement and terms of service—this process is called “Informed Consent.”

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There may be times when you would like your provider to share information or updates with someone on your healthcare team, such as your doctor, naturopath, or another treatment provider. In these cases, we will always ask for your written permission before releasing any information.

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However, there are certain situations where providers are required by law to break confidentiality, including:

  • If you are at risk of harming yourself or others

  • If a court orders the provider to disclose information

  • If there is disclosure or suspicion of child abuse, neglect, or a child witnessing violence at home

  • If there is disclosure of sexual abuse by a regulated health professional (e.g., massage therapist or chiropractor)

  • If there is a report of abuse or neglect involving residents of long-term care facilities or retirement homes

  • If someone is missing and the police require access to their file

  • If your records are randomly audited by the College of Psychologists of Ontario

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If you have any questions about confidentiality, please feel free to ask your provider. Your safety and privacy are our top priorities.

Therapy Information

How much does therapy cost?

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The following are our therapy rates per hour. Each session includes 50 minutes of direct therapy and 10 minutes for administrative tasks, such as note-taking. Half-hour sessions or sessions split between a child and parent may be available, depending on what you and your therapist decide together.

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Occupational Therapy Sessions: $170 per hour

Individual Therapy Sessions (with Social Workers or Psychotherapists): $175 per hour

Couples/Family Therapy Sessions (with Social Workers or Psychotherapists): $195 per hour

ADHD & Executive Functioning Coaching Sessions: $195 per hour

What are therapy wait times like?

 

Many of our therapists have no wait time. You can see which therapists are accepting on Our Team. On our online booking page, the therapists who have no wait time are offering free 20-minute Initial Consultations.​

How can therapy help?

 

Therapy provides a safe, non-judgemental environment where you can openly explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. We will work together to help you better understand yourself, recognize your strengths, and address areas where you may face challenges.

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Through therapy, you will develop practical strategies for managing stress, regulating difficult emotions, and coping with life’s obstacles. Together, we’ll work on calming your nervous system, building healthy boundaries, and fostering self-kindness and compassion. You will also learn to appreciate your unique qualities and values, which can lead to greater confidence and personal fulfillment.

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Additionally, therapy offers tools to identify and change unhelpful thinking patterns, develop healthier habits, and improve your ability to communicate and connect with others. Whether you’re seeking to feel calmer, improve your relationships, or simply need someone to listen, therapy supports your growth and helps you move forward with greater resilience and clarity.

What types of therapy are offered?

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Occupational Therapy: A hands-on and practical approach that helps clients build important life skills. It focuses on developing self-care abilities, sensory processing, executive functioning, social skills, and both gross and fine motor skills. Occupational Therapy also supports clients in overcoming challenges related to physical, cognitive, or emotional difficulties.

 

Social Worker and Psychotherapist: Therapy and counselling sessions typically involve sitting and talking together in a supportive environment. During Individual Therapy, we can address a wide range of concerns, including challenges related to different abilities, grief and loss, anxiety (both generalized and social), depression, trauma, burnout and stress, body image and self-esteem, gender identity, social communication, emotional regulation, behavioral concerns, suicidal thoughts or self-harm, bullying, as well as difficulties related to ADHD and autism.

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Individual Therapy: The focus of individual therapy is to provide personalized support and guidance to help a person address their unique concerns, challenges, and goals. Key areas of focus often include Self-Understanding, Emotional Regulation, Coping Skills, Behaviour Change, Self-Esteem and Confidence, Relationship Skills, Problem-Solving, and Personal Growth.

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Couples, Family, and Parent Therapy: We focus on areas such as Family Reunification, Separation or Divorce, Conflict Management, Coping with Major Life Stressors or Transitions, Prenatal Anxiety, Postpartum Support, Attachment and Bonding, and Separation Anxiety.​​

What is an Occupational Therapist?

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An occupational therapist is a healthcare professional who helps people of all ages participate in the activities that are important to their daily lives. This can include things like self-care, work, school, and leisure.

 

If someone is facing challenges due to injury, illness, disability, or changes in their abilities, an occupational therapist works with them to find practical solutions and build skills so they can live as independently and comfortably as possible. 

What is a Social Worker and Psychotherapist?

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There is some overlap between social workers and psychotherapists, and many social workers also provide psychotherapy. However, not all psychotherapists are social workers. Both professionals offer talk therapy to help with emotional, psychological, and behavioral concerns, using different approaches like CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy).

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Social Workers have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work (BSW/MSW) and are registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (https://www.ocswssw.org/). They can support clients in navigating community resources such as housing, financial assistance, and healthcare, and may also offer private therapy sessions for mental health counseling.

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Psychotherapists may have backgrounds in psychology, counseling, psychiatry, or other related fields. They are registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (https://crpo.ca/).

How do I choose the right therapist?

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Each of our therapists offer a free 20-minute initial consultation by phone or video. This gives you a chance to meet them, ask questions, and see if they’re the right fit for you and your family before starting full therapy sessions.

 

Why are you seeking therapy?

Think about what's on your mind. What are the main challenges or feelings you would like to explore in therapy? This could be anything from stress and anxiety to relationship difficulties or just feeling stuck.

 

What matters to you?
Think about what feels most comfortable for you. Would you rather have sessions in person or online? Do you have any preferences about your therapist’s gender, age, or cultural background? 

 

What are your goals?
Reflect on what you hope to get out of therapy. What would you like to achieve or work on? Having clear goals can help you find a therapist who’s the right match for your needs.

What therapy tools (modalities) are used in sessions?

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Our therapists different types of therapy modalities to fit each client’s unique needs, including:

  1. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

  2. Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT)

  3. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

  4. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  5. Acceptance, Identity, and Movement (AIM)

  6. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)

  7. Circle of Security Parenting Program (COSP)

  8. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EDMR)

  9. Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics (CBIT)

  10. Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT)

  11. Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFFT)

 

They also implement the following styles and perspectives:

  1. Solution-Focused

  2. Problem-Solving

  3. Gender-Affirming

  4. Neurodivergent-Affirming

  5. Strength-Based Approach

  6. Parent - Child Interaction

  7. Art, Play, and Movement

Assessment Information

How does a Psychologist differ from a Psychiatrist?

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Psychologists are trained professionals who assess, diagnose, and treat cognitive, emotional, and behavioural concerns. They hold advanced degrees (PhD or PsyD) in psychology and complete extensive training and supervised practice before working with clients. Psychologists are registered with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO) and must declare their areas of expertise and the age groups they serve.

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Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health. They can diagnose mental illnesses and prescribe medication, focusing more on the medical aspects of mental health. Psychiatrists complete medical school and specialized training, and are registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).

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Both psychologists and psychiatrists may use therapy in treatment, but psychiatrists can also prescribe medication as part of their approach.

How much does an assessment cost?

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Private Psychological Services are not covered under OHIP.

 

Psychoeducational, Neuropsychological, and other Psychological Assessments with Dr. Kathy Smolewska or Dr. Krista Mitchnick are billed at $240/hour; assessment duration varies based on complexity.

What is an assessment time/cost breakdown?

 

If there are only mild psychological symptoms (e.g., occasional anxiety, depression) and most testing is completed within one session, the assessment is billed closer to 16 hours ($3840). If multiple sessions are needed and/or there is some additional interviewing required around psychological functioning, the assessment is billed closer to 18 hours ($4320). If there are several significant developmental/psychological concerns (e.g., history of inpatient psychiatric admissions, possible FASD or ASD, developmental trauma, or PTSD), the assessment may be billed closer to 20-22 hours ($4800-$5280)


The entire assessment process, from the first interview to receiving the report, takes about 3 to 4 months.

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Are assessments always during the week and in-person?

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We are able to do virtual appointments (via Zoom) for interviews and feedback sessions. However, the psychometric testing must be done in-person in the office. In-person testing for children will most likely be done during the week, however we might have weekend availability for older teens and adults. This is dependent on our Psychometrist (the person who administers the testing) availability.​

How can an assessment help?

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​A psychological assessment is a valuable tool for understanding a person’s unique strengths and the areas where they may face more challenges. Our approach helps clients become kinder and more compassionate toward themself as they gain a better understanding of their thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and overall mental health. Here are some key reasons why psychological assessments are useful:

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1. Clarifying Diagnosis:
They help identify or clarify mental health conditions such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), learning concerns (reading, writing, and math), or psychological functioning (mood, anxiety, depression).

 

2. Understanding Strengths and Challenges:
Assessments provide detailed information about a person’s cognitive abilities, emotional functioning, coping skills, and areas where they may need additional support.

 

3. Guiding Treatment Planning:
The results can inform individualized treatment recommendations, helping to tailor therapy or interventions to the person’s unique needs.

 

4. Tracking Progress:
Repeat assessments can measure changes over time, showing if treatments or interventions are effective.

 

5. Supporting Educational or Workplace Needs:
For children, assessments can help determine eligibility for special education services or accommodations. For adults, they can support workplace accommodations or other support needs.

 

6. Providing Insight and Self-Understanding:
They can help individuals and families gain a deeper understanding of behaviors, emotions, and thought patterns, which can reduce self-blame and increase self-compassion.

 

7. Facilitating Communication:
Assessment results can help individuals communicate their needs more effectively with healthcare providers, educators, family members, and employers.

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In summary, psychological assessments are helpful for diagnosis, treatment planning, self-understanding, and ensuring people receive the support and accommodations they need to thrive.

What kind of assessment do I need?

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Deciding between a psychoeducational assessment and a neuropsychological assessment depends on your specific concerns and what you hope to learn from the evaluation. Here is a guide:

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Psychoeducational Assessment

  • Purpose: Focuses on learning, academic skills, and school-related challenges.

  • Common Reasons: Struggles with reading, writing, math, attention, or school performance; possible learning disabilities (like dyslexia or ADHD). Autism concerns can also be investigated during a psychoeducational assessment

  • What It Evaluates: Intellectual abilities (IQ), academic achievement, memory, attention, and sometimes emotional functioning as it relates to learning.

  • Who It Is For: Children (age 7 and up), teens, or adults experiencing difficulties in school or academic settings.

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Neuropsychological Assessment

  • Purpose: Provides a more in-depth look at how the brain functions and how this affects thinking, behaviour, and daily life.

  • Common Reasons: Concerns about memory, problem-solving, language, or changes after a brain injury, stroke, neurological illness, or developmental disorder.

  • What It Evaluates: A wide range of cognitive abilities, including memory, attention, language, reasoning, executive functioning, and sometimes emotional and behavioural functioning.

  • Who It Is For: People with suspected or known neurological conditions, brain injuries, or unexplained changes in thinking or behaviour.

 

How to Decide

  • If your main concern is academic performance or learning difficulties, a psychoeducational assessment is usually most appropriate.

  • If you are worried about changes in memory, thinking, or behaviour due to a medical condition, injury, or neurological issue, a neuropsychological assessment may be recommended.

 

If you’re unsure, please contact us and we can help determine which assessment best fits your needs.

How long are assessment wait times?

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Wait times for assessments depend on your age and the type of assessment you need. Here are our current wait times:

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  • Psychoeducational Assessments (including Autism (ASD) assessments): The wait is about 18 to 20 months. You can also ask to join our cancellation list.

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  • Autism (ASD) Only Assessments: At this time, our waitlist for autism-only assessments is closed.

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  • Neuropsychological Assessments: The wait is about 5 to 7 months, and some adult assessments may have shorter wait times. There is also a cancellation list you can join.

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  • Brief Adult ADHD Assessment: Please contact our office for current wait times. This assessment is for adults who have concerns regarding ADHD and want to better understand themselves and/or share the results with a family physician or psychiatrist (e.g., for medication management). If there are Autism (ASD) concerns, we can include autism-specific interviews, testing, and report writing.

How do I join an assessment waitlist?

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Dr. Kathy Smolewska currently has a waitlist for psychoeducational assessments and neuropsychological assessments, and the wait times can vary based on age and the complexity of the assessment (there are shorter waits for some assessments). Please complete a Contact Form letting us know what type of assessment you are inquiring about, as well as answers to the following questions:

 

1. What is the age of the person you are seeking the assessment for?

2. What are the main reasons/concerns for the assessment?

3. Is there a specific diagnosis that you are wondering about?

4. Are there any concerns about social-communication and social skills?

5. Are there any previous psychological/psychiatric diagnoses or learning disability diagnoses? Any previous assessments? If so, how long ago?

6. Are you looking into accommodations for school or work?

7. Do you have any ongoing or potential future lawsuits, motor vehicle accident claims, workplace injury claims, or disability claims?

 

If you are not comfortable putting this information in an email, please call the office with more details at 226-212-4842.

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