Frequently asked questions

Private practice services are not covered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). However, many group insurance plans reimburse consultations with an OTSTCFQ member social worker. Check your coverage with your insurer. Fees are also tax-deductible as medical expenses.

Yes. Secure video consultations are available for those who prefer it. This mode of consultation is well-suited for people with reduced mobility, busy schedules or those living further from our service locations.

You can reach me by phone at 514-647-6853 or by filling out the contact form on this website. I will get back to you as soon as possible to schedule an appointment that suits you.

Yes. An official receipt that meets insurer requirements is issued after each consultation. Services from an OTSTCFQ member social worker are recognized by most insurance companies.

Absolutely, you have the right to withdraw your consent to receive services at any time and end your process without justification.

Yes, fees apply in two cases: 100% of the fees are payable for cancellation or rescheduling with less than 24 hours' notice, and 50% of the fees are payable for cancellation or rescheduling with less than 48 hours' notice. This is standard practice among most mental health professionals in private practice.

A social worker is a professional trained to assess the social functioning of individuals, couples and families. They intervene to help overcome personal, relational or family difficulties, taking into account the person within their overall environment. In Quebec, the title of social worker (T.S.) is protected by law and governed by the Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec (OTSTCFQ).

It is normal to ask this question since these three professions may appear similar, but their approach and objectives differ. Social work focuses on the person in relation to their environment, psychology seeks to understand psychological functioning, and psychotherapy aims to treat psychological suffering in depth. I like to compare the social worker to a family doctor, both being generalist professionals who support a wide variety of clients and issues. In the same analogy, I compare the psychologist/psychotherapist to a specialist doctor, both specialized in diagnosing and treating specific and complex disorders.

Several historical, cultural and institutional factors explain why the psychologist is often the first professional people think of, even when other professionals, such as social workers, are equally qualified to help. This can be explained in part by the fact that psychologists have long been a visible public figure in mental health (media) and that the role of social workers may have been associated with social assistance, child protection services or administrative procedures. Research shows that the quality of the relationship is more important than the professional's title — each profession brings a different and complementary perspective.

The first meeting is an opportunity to get to know each other and understand your situation. It is a moment of active listening where you can express your concerns in complete confidentiality. Together, we will identify your needs and define the goals of the support. There is no obligation to continue after this first meeting.

The number of sessions varies depending on the situation and each person's goals. Some issues can be resolved in a few sessions, while others require more sustained support. We will discuss this together during the first meeting to establish a plan that works for you.

Absolutely. As a member of the OTSTCFQ, I am bound by professional secrecy. Everything shared during consultation remains strictly confidential, with exceptions, in accordance with the Code of Ethics for social workers and Quebec's Law 25 on the protection of personal information.

Consulting a social worker or any other helping professional is generally beneficial and safe for most people. However, like any process involving personal and emotional exploration, certain risks exist such as the temporary emergence of difficult emotions, impacts related to changes initiated on those around you, and the development of a sense of relational dependence. Being aware of these impacts, I strive to limit them as much as possible by supporting my clients through this transition and fostering their autonomy.