How long is the wait time for therapy?

We currently have immediate availability for psychotherapy services with a member of our team.

Do you offer in-person therapy and assessment services in Richmond Hill?

We offer in-person therapy and assessment services at our office located at 13270 Yonge Street in Richmond Hill. Comprehensive psychological assessments are often conducted using a hybrid model in which you may be asked to participate in both video and in-person appointments depending on the nature of the assessment you require. While we offer in-person services, we also provide virtual therapy across Ontario.

How much does a therapy session cost?

All fees for therapy, assessment, and consultation services are based on the Ontario Psychological Association (OPA) guidelines. Individual fees vary depending on the type of service requested. Payment is due at the end of each session and is payable by credit card.

Does OHIP cover psychological services?

No, but most private health insurance plans cover psychological services. Please check with your individual insurance provider.

Do you accept extended health benefits?

Most extended health benefits cover all or some of the cost of services provided by a licensed Psychologist, Registered Psychotherapist, or Social Worker. However, different insurers offer different amounts and types of coverage. It is recommended that you contact your insurer prior to your initial appointment to learn the details of your coverage.

What is your cancellation policy?

Your appointment is reserved for you. Please provide at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel an appointment. We recommend that you cancel your appointment by logging into your Jane App or email your clinician directly. If you do not cancel within 24 hours, you will be responsible for paying the full cost of the missed session.

What can I expect from an initial phone consultation?

The initial phone consultation is a brief 10 to 15 minute meeting with a member of our intake team at no cost to you. You will be asked to provide a brief description of the problem area you would like to work on in treatment or the nature of the assessment or consultation services you are requesting. Based on this discussion, we will match you with a member of our team who will best meet your needs. Give us a shout to get started.

Are therapy and assessment services private and confidential?

Protecting your privacy is important to us, and we adhere to Ontario’s health privacy legislation, the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA). There are some limits to confidentiality, which we will review in depth during your initial session.

How do I know if I need therapy?

If you notice persistent anxiety, low mood, relationship difficulties, or challenges coping with life transitions, therapy with a clinician at The Thought Centre in Richmond Hill can help. Our therapists provide a safe, supportive space to explore your experiences, develop coping strategies, and find relief. Learn more on our therapy services page.

How do I know if my teen needs therapy?

Signs your teen may benefit from therapy include persistent sadness or anxiety, withdrawal from friends or family, changes in sleep or appetite, or difficulty coping with stress. Our adolescent therapy services provide a safe space for teens to explore emotions and develop coping skills. Check out our bios to see who may be a good fit for your family.

What should I expect in a therapy session at The Thought Centre?

You can expect a confidential, supportive environment where your experiences are heard without judgment. Sessions typically include a discussion of your goals, an exploration of challenges, and the development of strategies for coping, emotional regulation, and personal growth. Learn more about different types of therapy on our blog.

How do I book a therapy session in Richmond Hill?

Booking is simple. You can reach out via our website, by phone, or by email to schedule a consultation. Our team will match you with a therapist based on your needs. Visit our contact page to book a session or learn more about our services.

What is trauma therapy, and how can it help me?

Trauma therapy helps us process past experiences that impact emotions, behaviour, or relationships. It focuses on safety, emotional regulation, and healing. Our trauma therapy services in Richmond Hill support you in understanding trauma and learning strategies to manage symptoms like anxiety, flashbacks, or emotional overwhelm. You can read more about trauma-focused treatments, such as Cognitive Processing Therapy, here.

How does couples therapy work?

Couples therapy at The Thought Centre is offered in-person at our Richmond Hill office and helps partners improve communication, resolve recurring conflicts, and rebuild emotional connection. Sessions focus on empathy, understanding patterns, and collaborative problem-solving. Couples therapy is currently offered by Jessica Furman, MSW, RSW.

What is the difference between individual therapy and couples therapy?

Individual therapy focuses on personal growth, emotional regulation, and coping skills for stress, anxiety, or trauma. Couples therapy addresses relational patterns, communication, and conflict resolution between partners. Both can complement each other depending on your needs. Learn more on our therapy services page.

How can therapy support parents of teens?

Parenting consultations can help parents understand adolescent development, improve communication, and navigate conflicts or behavioural challenges. Family or adolescent therapy provides tools for staying connected while respecting autonomy. Read our blog on why teens pull away for tips and tricks before your session.

Can therapy help with anxiety or panic attacks?

Yes. Therapy can help you understand triggers, develop coping strategies, and learn nervous system regulation techniques. Our therapists support individuals experiencing chronic worry, panic attacks, or physical anxiety symptoms. See our Reduce Anxiety blog for practical strategies.

What is perinatal and postpartum therapy?

Perinatal and postpartum therapy supports mental health during pregnancy and after birth. It can help with anxiety, depression, bonding challenges, or identity changes. Our Richmond Hill therapists provide compassionate care tailored to your experience.

How long does an ADHD assessment take?

Typically four appointments total (including intake and feedback) across approximately 4 to 6 weeks. Exact timelines will depend on your availability.

How long does a psychoeducational assessment take?

As few as four appointments and as many as six appointments, depending on the age of the client and capacity to sit for lengthy testing sessions. Exact timelines will depend on your availability.

What happens after the assessment?

You will receive a detailed explanation of the findings in a results meeting with your clinician. You will also receive a comprehensive assessment report documenting the findings, including the diagnosis when relevant. This report will also include individualized recommendations for support, such as treatment plans, strategies for everyday life, community resources, recommended readings, and recommended accommodations for school or work.

What age can a child be assessed for ADHD?

Usually around age 6, but please give us a call as exceptions can be made for individual cases.

Can adults receive ADHD assessments?

Yes, absolutely. ADHD can be assessed in adults, children, and adolescents. Adult assessments consider current symptoms alongside developmental history and longstanding patterns of functioning.

What’s the difference between ADHD and psychoeducational assessments?

An ADHD assessment focuses on examining the symptoms of ADHD. A psychoeducational assessment examines a variety of conditions that contribute to learning difficulties, including learning disabilities and ADHD.

Can my assessment be used for school accommodations?

Yes, at the end of the assessment, you will receive a detailed report outlining the results and providing individualized recommendations for accessing support, including school-based accommodations. 

Can I use the report for university accommodations?

Yes, at the end of the assessment, you will receive a detailed report outlining the results and providing individualized recommendations for accessing support, including school-based accommodations. Some universities have specific documentation requirements. Please check with your individual university or college and provide this information to your clinician at the start of your assessment.

Do parents need to participate?

Parent participation is required for assessments with minors. For older adolescents and adults, this can be discussed on a case-by-case basis.  

Can assessments be completed virtually?

Some portions of our ADHD assessments can be completed virtually, though one in-person session is typically required. Requests for a completely virtual assessment will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

How long is the wait for an assessment?

Many of our clients are seen quite quickly after their first inquiry, but specific times vary depending on the type of assessment and individual clinicians’ schedules.

I am in a crisis and need immediate support, who can I call?

If this is an emergency, please go to your nearest emergency room or contact 9-1-1 for immediate help. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, there are a number of local crisis hotlines available to you:

Distress Centre of Greater Toronto‍ ‍416-408-4357 or text 45645

The Canada Suicide Prevention Service‍ ‍1-833-456-4566

Trans Lifeline 1-877-330-6366

Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868

Good2Talk 1-866-925-5454