Frequently Asked Questions About Services Provided:
What populations do you work with?
Dr. McManus works with children, adolescents, adults, elderly, couples, and families. She enjoys the variety and challenges that each age group presents.
Do I need a referral or can I call in to book myself?
Psychological services do not require a referral. However, if you plan to use extended health benefits, you may want to check if a referral is necessary for reimbursement. Some insurance companies may require a referral from your physician.
How long are the sessions?
Typically, sessions are 50 minutes unless otherwise scheduled. The remaining 10 minutes is spent in documenting the session, scheduling and taking payment.
How many sessions will it take?
The typical number is usually between 6 and 13 sessions. The number of sessions can be related to a number of factors including the complexity and severity of your particular situation, the level of motivation for change, and the number of people involved in the therapy sessions. A motivated individual can often experience significant symptom relief and change in 5 to 6 sessions. The number of sessions required is something that is discussed thoroughly in the first session. Collaboratively identifying realistic goals for the number of sessions you are able to attend is very important and Dr. McManus will work with you to identify your goals.
Will I see you every week?
Depending upon your particular presenting issue, sessions initially may be weekly but you may choose to move sessions to bi-weekly or monthly as you make progress. There is also flexibility if you work out of town or out of province. Arrangements can be made to maintain continuity of treatment depending upon which province you work in.
What is phased treatment?
Many clients engage in phased treatment where they will come to work on a specific set of issues and then return at a later date, when their coverage starts again, to work on an issue that was initially less pressing but still needs to be resolved. Homework, such as specific reading or specific activities, may be encouraged to keep the progress moving forward while the client is taking a break in treatment and awaiting further coverage.
What can I expect in my first session?
During the first session it is important to go over the issues involved in giving informed consent, to allow you to ask questions before proceeding with treatment, and to encourage you to discuss what has brought you in for therapy. By voicing your concerns and collaboratively deciding what you would like to focus on during therapy, we can be sure to address your own specific needs. Dr. McManus works carefully to create a warm, inviting, and safe atmosphere for you to be able to move forward in therapy and make the changes you desire in your life.
What can I expect at future sessions?
The focus of subsequent sessions will be on the issues that have been identified as goals. Dr. McManus will work to gain a comprehensive picture of your own unique concerns and struggles in order to guide and facilitate the process of change. At all sessions, she will work at creating a climate of trust and acceptance.
What are your rates?
Fees are $250 per 50 minute session with the remaining 10 minutes being spent documenting the session.
What do you charge for an assessment?
Assessment costs vary depending upon the type of assessment so the best course of action is to call and inquire about rates for the type of assessment you need.
Who pays for the services
Psychologist fees are not covered by your provincial Medical Service Plan insurance. Typically people pay out of pocket and/or seek reimbursement through their extended health insurance coverage. However, many people (e.g., Federal and Provincial Government employees), may have full or partial coverage for psychological services through workplace Employee Assistance Plans (EAPS). Dr. McManus is a service provider for many of the large insurance companies such as Pacific Blue Cross and Great West Life.She also provides services for Veteran's Affairs, Worksafe, and ICBC. In certain circumstances we will provide direct billing to specific organizations through the various insurance companies. Please feel free to inquire whether you insurance company is one of the organizations for direct billing.
What do I need to know to use my extended health insurance benefits?
The amount of coverage is determined by the agreement between your employer and insurance provider. Please contact your insurance provider or human resource department to find out the details of your coverage including:
Whether or not you need a referral from a medical doctor for psychological services.
Who the insurance carrier covers - do they cover psychologists?
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How much coverage for services do you have and is it a straight dollar amount or is it a percentage up to a certain amount?
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Is it a dollar amount per family member per year or a total for all members per year?
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When does your extended health benefits coverage year change? Most plans start a new year on January 1st. Knowing when your benefits coverage begins enables individuals to book several sessions in the fall of one year, and continue into the New Year using their coverage for the next year.
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Many extended health plans require that your provider be a registered psychologist? Dr. McManus is registered by the College of Psychologists of British Columbia. Her registration number is #2143
Psychological services can also be claimed as a health care expense on your income tax.
Are assessments covered on my insurance?
If you have extended medical you may have full or partial coverage for assessments and you should speak with your insurance representative to obtain details of what may be covered.
What kind of payment do you accept?
Currently, we are only able to accept payment by cash and cheque.