Psychological Assessment Fees & FAQs

Psychological Assessment Fees

Does OHIP Cover a Psychological Assessment?

While our fees are not covered by the government, they may be covered by extended benefit plans offered by your employer. Check your coverage under psychological services. Often, these benefits are grouped under paramedical expenses. Alternatively, if you or a family member is self-employed, you may be able to deduct the expense of our services directly from your business. We’d be pleased to speak with you further about either of these options.  Also make sure and read our page on possible government-funded programs.

Psychological Assessment Fees

Does my insurance company cover the costs?

If you have insurance benefits, the classification on our invoice reads “Psychological Services”. It is your responsibility to check with your insurance company ahead of time to determine if you will be reimbursed. You should also check with your insurance company to verify if there is a daily maximum, as many insurance companies are now implementing such a policy. Based on the experience of previous clients, asking for the daily maximum by itself sometimes leads to vague answers. Instead, we suggest that you ask what is “the reasonable and customary amount” you can collect to ensure you get a concise and accurate answer from your insurance company. Since we invite the participation of parents, the invoices will be under your child’s name but also can include yourself and your spouse/significant other (if applicable and they are part of the assessment process).

Psychological Assessment Fees

What are my options if I don’t have private insurance coverage?

Cornerstone is a learning and training facility meaning we proudly host practicum students who are working towards their full licensure as Psychologists. Assessments with these clinicians are supervised by our Clinic Director, Melissa Cait, but offered at a reduced rate on a case-by-case basis. Each client who begins an assessment with Cornerstone first must have an intake call completed (either by themselves or their parent/guardian). Eligibility for working with one of our practicum students at a reduced rate is determined via the intake call based on personality, approach and expertise. This may be further discussed upon contacting Cornerstone and during the intake call. Also make sure to read our page on possible government funded programs and financing options through Medicard.

How can I help my child prepare for a gifted test / gifted assessment?

The best thing you can do is ensure that your child has a good night’s sleep.

  • Don’t tell your child that they are visiting the office for a gifted test.  Instead, tell them that we are going to study how they learn.  Only 2% of children meet the gifted criteria and we don’t want children to be disappointed
  • Don’t tell your child that they will receive a prize if they are gifted
  • Don’t try to study for a gifted assessment – our assessors will identify this and be forced to use different tests.  This could result in unnecessary expenses

Do I need a referral from a doctor or a teacher in order to visit Cornerstone?

Although doctors and teachers refer many of our clients, clients also may refer themselves. To make an appointment, please call our office during normal business hours, and we’ll be happy to accommodate you.

What ages do you service at Cornerstone?

Cornerstone Psychological Services helps clients from 6 years old right through to adulthood. Working with this wide a range of people better enables us to help clients make choices along the way from early elementary school, high school, college/university and right into the workplace.

What is the difference between Psychologists and Psychological Associates?

Visit The College of Psychologists of Ontario to learn more http://www.cpo.on.ca/faqs.aspx