Frequently Asked Questions

  • Choosing the right clinician can be tricky. To find the right fit for you, click here to learn more about our associates. Take a look at their bios to get an idea of the work they each do. If you’re still unsure, we can suggest a clinician based on your individual needs.

  • At Marsh-Knickle & Associates, we have Registered Psychologists, Registered Social Workers, Registered Marriage & Family Therapists, and Counselling Therapists.

    Each of our clinicians has training at the Master’s or Doctoral level in psychology, social work, and/or counselling. While their titles and training are somewhat different, each clinician has the necessary skills to help clients manage their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours.

    Please note that our practitioners are not medical doctors and cannot prescribe medication.

  • No - we do not require a doctor’s referral to book with us. However, some insurance providers require a referral to reimburse for psychological services. Please check with your insurance company to find out what they require.

  • Our fees range from $175 to $250 per 50-minute session, depending on who you’re scheduled with, and the type of session (individual, couples, etc.). These rates are based on the recommendations of our clinicians’ governing boards, such as the NSBEP (Nova Scotia Board of Examiners in Psychology).

  • We do not direct bill private insurance companies for our services. Clients are responsible for the fees associated with their appointments, and will be issued a receipt they can submit to their insurance provider for reimbursement.

    We encourage you to contact your insurance provider to find out how much of the fees they will cover, and for which types of practitioners.

    Provincial health insurance (MSI) does not cover fees for therapy or assessments at private clinics. Counselling is available without charge at community outpatient mental health clinics. Services at these clinics may be provided by a psychologist or another mental health professional with training in social work, nursing, or a related field. Your family doctor can provide a referral to a clinic near you.

    Fees for health-related psychological services are also deductible as medical expenses for income tax purposes.

  • If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, we kindly ask that you give us at least 24 hours notice. Appointments following a weekend or holiday must be cancelled by 12 noon on the last business day beforehand as our phones and emails are not monitored outside business hours. This allows us time to offer your spot to someone who may be waiting for an appointment.

    If sufficient notice is not given you will be charged a late cancellation fee equal to the cost of the appointment.

    *48 hours notice is required for extended appointments (those scheduled for 2 hours or longer).

    Please note that reminder emails and texts are a courtesy only. Once an appointment has been scheduled, it is the client’s responsibility to attend or cancel with sufficient notice.

  • At your first session, you and your therapist will get to know each other. Your therapist will ask you questions about yourself, your life, and your reason for making the appointment. With a better understanding of your individual situation, they will be able to craft a plan to best help you.

    You should also use this appointment to ask your therapist any questions you may have about their methods and what your time with them will involve. It’s important for you to be fully informed.

  • This can vary greatly based on your individual situation and should be discussed with your clinician. Many clients schedule appointments weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly.

  • Parents/guardians are more than welcome to attend appointments with their children, though it is not required. It can be helpful for someone to join them for the first session to provide background information, especially for younger children.