Do I need a referral?

You do not need a physician referral. You can contact Dr. Halliday directly if you are interested in services.

What are your fees?

Therapy fees are set at $235 per 50-minute session, in keeping with the British Columbia Psychological Association’s recommended rate.

Assessment fees are as follow:

Psychoeducational assessment - $3350

Neuropsychological assessment - $4000-4500

Mental Health assessment - $1500

CLBC Eligibility assessment - $2100

Can I used extended health benefits?

Many extended health plans provide coverage for psychological services. Please contact your provider to understand your terms and conditions. Dr. Halliday does not offer direct billing to extended health plans at this time.

Do you offer virtual or in-person services?

For therapy, Dr. Halliday offers both in-person and virtual services to his clients. He can only see clients who are located within British Columbia.

What is the difference between a clinical psychologist and a counsellor?

A clinical psychologist typically handles more complex mental health presentations that benefit from specialized interventions based on research evidence. Clinical psychologists complete doctoral-level training (culminating in a Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and are regulated by a professional college (in BC, this is the College of Health and Care Professionals). Clinical psychologists have extensive training in assessment and can diagnose mental health and neurodevelopmental disorders. Their scope of practice is broad, and they practice in a range of settings (e.g., hospitals, research institutions).

Counsellors have more diversity in training backgrounds, and some may be trained initially in adjacent fields (e.g., Social Work, Occupational Therapy). Counsellors typically hold a Master’s degree, and often focus more on helping clients with personal growth, everyday stressors, and coping strategies. BC does not currently have a government-regulated college specifically for counsellors; however, many counsellors choose to join the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors.

What is a psychologist? What is a neuropsychologist? What is the difference?

A psychologist is a doctoral-level trained professional who studies human behaviour and mental processes, providing therapeutic interventions and assessments to enhance mental health. A neuropsychologist is a specialized psychologist with expertise in the interplay between the brain and behaviour.

Neuropsychologists focus on understanding how neurological factors impact cognitive functions, emotions, and behaviour, often diagnosing and addressing conditions related to brain dysfunction. The key distinction lies in the specialization, where psychologists have a broader focus on mental well-being, while neuropsychologists specifically explore the connection between brain function and behaviour, particularly in the context of neurological disorders and injuries.

How do I know if I should see a psychologist?

Look for significant changes in behaviour, emotions, or academic performance that persist over time. If a person is struggling with issues like anxiety, depression, or difficulty coping with life events, it may be beneficial to seek the expertise of a psychologist. Additionally, if a person is facing challenges in relationships or exhibiting signs of emotional distress, a psychologist can help identify and address underlying issues.

Psychological assessments are often helpful to better understand why someone is having difficulties learning, working, taking care of themselves, and managing feelings. Assessments can provide valuable insights into a person’s strengths, challenges, and potential areas of support, aiding in tailored interventions to promote their overall well-being. Having a neuropsychological perspective in particular may be useful to understand the reasons why a person is struggling with cognition and learning.

What happens during a therapy session?

During a psychotherapy session, a client is invited to engage in confidential conversations, where they can openly discuss thoughts, emotions, and concerns. Dr. Halliday will create a safe and supportive environment, employing various therapeutic techniques to help the client explore and understand their feelings and behaviours. The sessions may involve discussions, activities, and exercises tailored to address specific challenges, fostering personal growth and providing coping strategies to enhance their mental and emotional well-being. Regular feedback and collaboration between Dr. Halliday, the child/youth, and their parents can contribute to the effectiveness of the therapeutic process.

How many therapy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions depends on the nature of your situation, as well as other factors like available resources. Most research studies suggest that the benefits of therapy are seen after 8-10 sessions; however, there are many factors that influence the number of sessions a client may have.