Frequently asked questions.
REFERRAL REQUIRED
Because this is a focused practice and primarily virtual, there are some requirements before we can work together.
Requirements:
Adult only clinic
You must have a family physician / access to ongoing primary care
A Valid OHIP Card
Ability and willingness to participate in virtual care
General Practice (GP) psychotherapy
GP Psychotherapy, or medical psychotherapy, refers to mental health services provided by a physician. This can be provided by Psychiatrists, who have extensive specialist training. In Ontario, psychotherapy can also be provided by some generalist physicians.
Medical Psychotherapy Association of Canada is a professional organization that provides guidance on standard of practice as well as professional development and education. Their Q and A webpage is also a great resource for anyone wanting to learn more.
“Medical psychotherapy is the deliberate establishment by a physician of a professional relationship with a patient, for the purpose of communication and collaboration to address potential or actual health-impacting problems. The relationship can foster and nurture the positive attitude and emotional strength necessary to take actions to prevent illness or to accelerate healing. The goal is the resumption of optimal functioning in everyday life, if possible, or at least minimization of discomfort and despair.“
internal family systems
While I have an eclectic approach to supportive therapy, integrating techniques from different modalities to meet the needs and preferences of those I am working with, my modality of choice is Internal Family Systems.
IFS is an evidenced based modality that helps us explore different aspects of our psyche, or parts, as well as our core inner being, or self (sometimes referred to as self energy). The approach is non-pathologizing and allows space for one’s own self to heal and lead the system. In addition to other seminars and courses, I have completed the IFSCa training intensive, Stepping In, and have completed Level 1 training with the IFS Institute.
https://ifs-institute.com/
Gender affirming care
One of my areas of interest is to help provide and enable gender affirming care as well as to support those exploring their gender or sexual orientation. If you are interested in gender transition or are a physician looking to support your patients, the Rainbow Health Ontario website is an excellent resource and also reflects the standard of care in Ontario. While designed for clinicians, their resource for Primary Health Care for Trans Patients is particularly helpful for anyone considering medical or surgical transition. I can consult for initiation of medications or as an assessor for surgery if needed. Clinicians are encouraged to send a consult through Ocean eReferral network or send a consult request via Secure Fax (289) 714-2021.
Billing and scheduling
Because I am a physician, the services I provide are covered under OHIP. Because this is a focused practice, it is important that you have access to ongoing primary care to help co-management any other health concerns that may arise. A referral is required. I accept eReferrals from physicians and other clinicians through Ontario’s Ocean Network.
This practice is primarily virtual. Typically the initial visit is held in person in Burlington Ontario. After that initial visit, further appointments will be provided virtually and can be managed by you through the patient portal. Initial visits are typically 75 minutes in length, with ongoing visits either 75 minutes or 50 minutes depending on needs and availability.
limitations
I am not a family physician and am not able to provide general medical care, completion of medical or other forms, or prescriptions through this practice, with the exception of those related to gender transition. If you have ongoing medical concerns or need help managing medications, this is best done through your family physician.
While I have a trauma-informed practice, I am by no means a mental health trauma expert nor am I a psychiatrist. If you feel you are in crisis or are experiencing suicidal thoughts or psychosis, please contact your local mental health crisis resource or 911 for emergency services.