What is your training and experience? 
Psychologists complete graduate level university degrees in the study of how people think, feel, and act. Clinical psychologists are specially trained in the assessment and diagnosis of psychological difficulties, delays, and disorders. As a psychologist with a Ph.D. in clinical child psychology (University of Guelph), I have completed extensive training in the area of child and adolescent psychology. Toward the end of my graduate training, I was employed as a staff clinician at McMaster Children’s Hospital in Hamilton, Ontario. I completed my Predoctoral Residency in Child Clinical Psychology at the IWK Health Centre and subsequently joined the Autism Team in 2005. While working at the IWK, I opened this practice on a part-time basis in 2011 to offer educational assessments and therapy services. I made the transition to full-time private practice in 2018. 

What does it mean that you are a “registered” psychologist?
Upon completion of graduate training, psychologists then become registered in Nova Scotia once they have met post-graduate supervised practice requirements, as well as written and oral licensing exams. The practice of a registered psychologist is regulated by the profession’s provincial licensing body (i.e., the Nova Scotia Board of Examiners in Psychology), which helps to ensure that its members are appropriately trained and meet a high standard of care. I am a Registered Psychologist in the province of Nova Scotia (Registration # R0595).

Will my family’s information be kept confidential?
Information shared with a psychologist is confidential. Your family’s information will not be disclosed to others without your consent, except in specific circumstances (for example, if there are concerns regarding a child’s safety, if a court orders that records are disclosed). At the first appointment, I will review the limits of confidentiality with you and answer any questions you may have.

Is a referral needed to make an appointment? 
No, you do not need a referral. You may set up an appointment by calling 902.802.5391. Although not required, referrals are welcomed from professionals working with your child, such as family physicians, pediatricians, teachers, speech-language pathologists, and early interventionists. Referrals are accepted by phone (902.802.5391), email (drvanier@melanievanier.ca) or fax (902.444.4111). Please note that some Extended Health Benefit plans require a referral from a physician to reimburse for services.

What do I need to know about fees and payment options? 
Fees are based on the hourly rate recommended by the Association of Psychologists of Nova Scotia (APNS). Most psychologists in Halifax charge approximately the same rate. Payment options include e-Transfer, Visa, or MasterCard. Upon payment, a proper receipt will be issued. You can then use the receipt to submit claims for reimbursement to the insurance provider, if applicable. Direct billing is possible for some insurance plans. Please note that fees for psychological services are tax deductible as a medical expense. Extended Health Benefit plans often include coverage for services provided by a registered psychologist. If you have an extended insurance plan through your work, it would be worthwhile to inquire about the extent of available coverage.

Do you offer evening and weekend appointments?
Yes. A variety of appointment times are offered, including some weekday evenings and weekends.