Psychiatric Consultations
Our practice includes a collaborative partnership with Psychotherapy Matters—a virtual platform that connects therapists and their clients to psychiatrists, making the journey towards recovery less stressful.
What is a psychiatric consultation?A psychiatric consultation is a one-time or short-term appointment with a psychiatrist. The reasons for a consultation may include:
1. Obtaining a diagnosis/diagnoses
2. Medication recommendations (if applicable)
3. Psychotherapy treatment recommendations that we can apply to our current treatment plan
Throughout the process and during these psychiatric consultations, your therapist is always present to help you feel comfortable and contribute to the doctor’s evaluation if required.
How do I get started?Let your therapist know that you may be interested. We can prepare a referral if:
✓ You’ve had at least 3 psychotherapy sessions with your therapist (a solid understanding of your concerns is needed!)
✓ You are looking for a diagnosis, medication recommendations, and/or input for your psychotherapy treatment plan
✓ You plan to continue psychotherapy following the consultation
How do I get a referral?
Your therapist can prepare the referral for you to bring to your Primary Care Practitioner (ex., family doctor, walk-in clinic doctor, nurse practitioner) to fill out and fax to Psychotherapy Matters.
Once completed, a virtual appointment for you, the therapist, and the psychiatrist will be booked.
Following the appointment, an assessment report will be sent to your physician.
*the psychiatrist can make recommendations on medications, but it is your primary care practitioner who will prescribe and monitor the medication
What is a psychiatrist?Psychiatrists are medical doctors that prescribe medication and offer a psychiatric diagnosis.
A psychiatrist can offer additional insight and support to your treatment plan, in collaboration with your Psychotherapist and primary care practitioner.
What does it cost?The consultations take place with both your therapist, and the psychiatrist. The doctor’s time is covered by OHIP. The therapist’s regular fees will apply.
In collaboration with:
What is the wait time?Most clients wait 6-18 months for a psychiatric consult. Because we collaborate with Psychotherapy Matters, your wait is significantly reduced to as few as 6 to 8 weeks.