FAQs
What does a psychologist do?
Psychologists are trained in the assessment, treatment, and prevention of behavioural and mental health conditions. They diagnose a wide range of disorders and support clients in understanding and managing emotional, cognitive, and interpersonal challenges. In addition to diagnosis, psychologists use a variety of evidence-based approaches directed toward maintaining and enhancing physical, intellectual, emotional, social, and interpersonal functioning.
What makes a psychologist with a PhD different from other mental health professionals?
A PhD-level clinical psychologist has extensive doctoral training, typically 8–12 or more years, in both psychological science and clinical practice. To qualify for professional registration, this includes rigorous coursework, multiple supervised practica, a 1,600+ hour clinical residency, and licensing examinations.
PhD psychologists are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including complex cases, and are specially qualified in advanced psychological testing such as cognitive and personality assessments. Unlike psychiatrists, they do not prescribe medication, but they provide in-depth, evidence-based psychotherapy grounded in both research and clinical experience.
Do you work with clients from different Canadian provinces?
Dr. Ward is licensed in Quebec and Ontario. However, due to various provincial regulations, she may be able to work with clients from other provinces as well. Please reach out and we can explore whether this is possible for your situation.
I'm not sure I need therapy, how do I know if it's worth trying?
Many people feel this way before reaching out. There's no threshold you need to meet. If something is weighing on you, even something that feels too small to mention, that's reason enough.
The free 15-minute consult exists exactly for this moment. It's not a commitment to therapy; it's just a conversation to help you figure out if it might help.
What happens in an initial session?
An intake session is designed for you and Dr. Ward to get to know each other, and for her to gain a clear understanding of what brings you to therapy. She will ask you a range of questions about your current concerns, personal history, mental and physical health, relationships, and goals. It's also a chance for you to ask questions, learn about her approach, and discuss practical details like confidentiality and session structure. This process helps ensure your care is tailored to you, and that you feel comfortable moving forward together.
How long does therapy take?
The length of therapy varies depending on your goals, needs, and the nature of the concerns you're working through. Some people find a few sessions helpful for a specific issue, while others benefit from longer-term support to address more complex or ongoing challenges. Dr. Ward will regularly check in with you to ensure the pace and duration feel right and align with your goals.
How long is each session?
Sessions typically last 50–60 minutes.
What are the session fees and cancellation policy?
Each session is $250. Most extended health benefit plans through an employer, school, or private provider include coverage for psychological services, meaning many clients pay little or nothing out of pocket. Receipts are provided after every session for reimbursement.
If you're unsure about your coverage, it's worth a quick call to your insurance provider before your first session. We're happy to help you understand what to ask.
How do I get started?
Please reach out by email at katelynward@reflect-psychology.com to schedule an appointment or a free 15-minute consultation call. Dr. Ward will typically respond within 2 business days, you can expect a brief reply to confirm next steps.
Who can benefit from therapy?
People who are experiencing anxiety, stress, low mood, grief, life changes, or relationship challenges often find therapy helpful. Psychotherapy can be useful for a wide variety of people who would like to better understand themselves and work through emotional, social, or personal challenges — whether those concerns feel urgent or more ongoing.