Frequently Asked Questions

*How long have you been doing this work?

I was registered as a psychologist in 2013, and have been working with preschoolers and early grade school-age children for almost 20 years. I worked as a support worker, then a counsellor, and finally a psychologist. I've worked in the public and independent school systems, non-profit organizations, and in private practice.

*What can I expect during an assessment for my child?

We start with a (free) phone call or emails to chat about what you're looking for, and I'll send you an intake form. I'll meet with you and your child at their school or my office, and do some games and activities that set the stage for me to observe how your child processes information, communicates, and relates. Depending on our assessment, we may also complete a longer parent interview, teacher interviews, classroom observations, and online questionnaires. To finish-up, we have a feedback meeting to discuss my impressions/diagnoses/recommendations, and I'll send a secure final copy to you.

If you go on to apply for the Disability Tax Credit, just send me the reference number, and I can support that application, as well.

*What do I tell my child?

Tell the truth, use language they will understand, and give them the amount and type of information that they can handle. A good guideline is: if they are asking about it, they are ready for an answer about it! As I learn more about your child, I can recommend more personalized ideas. For autism diagnoses, I provide short stories with pictures to help you speak with your child about their brain.

*How long will it take?

Each assessment is tailored to your needs, but they typically range from 5 to 10 + hours. Billable hours are always agreed upon before work begins, and can be re-visited throughout the process as appropriate.

*How much does it cost?

Fees are generally determined according to the schedule recommended by the Psychologists' Association of Alberta. Alternative fee schedules can be arranged as appropriate, depending on insurance plans, barriers, etc.

*What do these acronyms/terms mean?

DIR/Floortime

A play-based philosophy, developed by Stanley Greenspan, where Developmental stages, Individual Differences, and Relationship are always prioritized.

CDS/Child Development Services

An Alberta Health Services clinic, located near the Alberta Children’s Hospital; children and families are often referred to the CDS by doctors or health care professionals; funded through Alberta Health Care

FSCD/Family Support for Children with Disabilities

Provincial program; if a child has a medical diagnosis or documented delays/difficulties/differences, supports are available, such as financial compensation for respite care and access to therapists* for support in the home

I.F.S.P./Individual Family Support Plan: document including goals, strategies, and responsibilities of family and community

I.S.P./Individual Service Plan: document including goals, strategies, and responsibilities of family and therapy team

*I am an approved provider for FSCD

Neurodiversity Affirming

We all have our own unique developmental profile and we don't always fit into simple boxes. I listen to individuals, parents, and teachers. I help with building on strengths, incorporating interests and passions, and addressing challenges with validation and respect. I support parents and caregivers so that they can support their children and students.

O.T./Occupational Therapist

Supports development of fine motor skills, or little movements, such as printing and grabbing, self-help skills such as eating and toileting, and sensory profile needs, such as a child's response to lights, sounds, movement, and smells

Psych/Registered Psychologist

Supports mental functioning, including social, emotional, behavioural, relational, and cognitive development, often through assessments, counselling, and consultation

Psychiatrist

Medical doctor, supports mental health through treatments such as counselling; can prescribe medication

PT/Physical Therapist

Supports gross motor development and big movements, such as walking, running, jumping, throwing, coordinating, and healing injuries

P.U.F./Special Education Coding and Funding in Schools

Program Unit Funding is also a provincial program; if a child has a medical diagnosis or documented delays/difficulties/differences, supports are available to build skills in the classroom. Teams of therapists, teachers, educational assistants, and parents collaborate on goals and strategies, recommend and model modified programming, and track and share progress. Support is more readily available in preschool and kindergarten, through early intervention and Program Unit Funding; requirements for extra support in grade 1+ are more specific.

I.P.P./Individual Program Plan: document including goals, strategies, and responsibilities of school team

SLP/Speech and Language Pathologist

Supports speech, language, and communication development