Who's the right psychologist for you?

Consultation

Most psychologists will offer a short consultation free of charge. You can usually do it by phone, online or in person.

This is when you should ask questions so you can make an informed decision.

Ask if you're a good fit

When the consultation is over, be sure to ask if the psychologist thinks you're a good fit. Your area of concern may not be a good fit for their expertise.

What to ask about their licence

Are you licensed in a Canadian province or territory? If not, why not and would you be eligible? If you were licensed before, were you disciplined there?

• Psychologists are not regulated in the Yukon. This means they do not have to have a licence to practice here.
• They may have got their licence from elsewhere. Or, they may have only lived in the Yukon and not bothered to get a licence elsewhere.
• It's important to understand the psychologist’s history. Were they ever disciplined? Have they ever had their licence suspended?

What to ask about their education and training

• What's your education and training? What degree do you have?
  • The psychologist should have a master’s degree or PhD.
  • They should have experience or training in your area of interest such as:
    • child psychology;
    • developmental psychology; or
    • social psychology.
  • Do not be afraid to ask about the different types of training. It's important for you to understand everything the psychologist is telling you.

What to ask about their experience

How much experience do you have with my areas of concern?

• The psychologist should ask about your background and why you want therapy.
• Most psychologists can offer specific services such as:
  • counselling individuals, couples or families; and
  • various forms of therapy, intervention, assessments and training.

The treatments and techniques the psychologist uses will depend on your areas of concern. To understand what’s ahead, be sure to ask questions during your first consultation. Some example questions you'll want to ask include:

Treatment and therapy questions

What kind of treatment or therapy do you recommend? Is it effective for what I'm looking for?

• The psychologist should be able to tell you about 1 or more recommended therapies and treatments.
• They should also be able to speak to how well they work. Some therapies work best for specific issues. An example is that cognitive behavioural therapy is an effective treatment for depression and anxiety.

How long will therapy last? How long is each session and how often?

• While this may change, the psychologist should be able to give you a starting range of sessions.
• It's also important to continue to touch base with your psychologist during your sessions.

What will an average session be like?

• Sessions can have various formats. You can have structured sessions with homework or they can be supportive and flexible.
• Psychologists also differ in how much direct advice and feedback they may give.

What type of feedback and advice do you give?

• You want to understand their methods and communication style.
• If you need an empathetic ear and supportive listener, a person that challenges your thoughts may not be the right fit.

It's important to ask questions about how the psychologist’s clinic runs and what they expect of you.

• What are your fees?
• Do you accept insurance?
  • Note: often extended benefit insurance does not cover treatment or care provided by non-licensed psychologists.
• Are your sessions in person or online?
• How do you handle cancellations or missed appointments?
• Do you have after-hours availability for crises?

This list is only for information. We do not authorize, validate or endorse any of these psychologists or their practice.

This is a voluntary list of psychologists currently working in the Yukon. If you do not see your psychologist on this list, it may mean they have not contacted us to be included.

If you're a psychologist and would like to be included on this list email: inquiry.plra@yukon.ca

Contact us if you'd like to be added to this list.