Have a Question? Please don’t hesitate to ask!
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We’ve answered some most frequently asked questions below so you don’t need to ask. Otherwise, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Working with Us

Workshops & Groups

Privacy & Policies
Working with Dr. Zia & the FFEW Team
Here are the most frequently asked questions regarding our work with patients. If you have any other questions, contact us!
What are your fees?
Our fees are within the recommended rate by the Ontario Psychological Association, and vary depending on the nature of the service required.
Are therapy and assessments covered by insurance?
Although psychological services are not covered by OHIP, they are covered by most extended health insurance plans. We can easily provide a receipt that can be submitted to your insurance company or claimed for tax deduction purposes. We encourage prospective clients to check whether they have extended health coverage and to which type of services it may apply.
Are sessions confidential?
Your privacy and confidentiality are of the utmost importance to us at FFEW. Your identity and personal information will be kept strictly confidential, meaning that no information can be shared with others without explicit consent from you. There are certain exceptions to confidentiality according to Ontario law, and these will be fully discussed with you during your first session.
How do I know if the FFEW team can help me?
Our diverse team of professionals are equipped to treat and assess children, adolescents, and families with a wide array of mental health problems! Before starting treatment, we offer a free consultation call with our intake coordinators to discuss your reasons for seeking treatment and address any questions or concerns, helping to determine suitability for treatment. Book a free consultation here!
Do I need a referral?
You may contact FFEW directly to arrange a consultation or appointment for assessment or treatment. No professional referral is required. To book an appointment or enquire further about our services please contact us.
I’m a health professional and would like to refer one of my patients. Can I speak to a clinician about suitability of the referral?
You may contact us directly to arrange a consultation or appointment for assessment or treatment. No professional referral is required.
How do I start the process of working with an FFEW professional?
The best way to begin is to schedule an intake call. During this free 15-minute call, our intake coordinators will inquire about your needs and any symptoms you may be experiencing. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and to find out more about treatment options and current availability at the clinic.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, psychotherapist, and social worker?
Professionals who provide psychotherapy include psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and psychotherapists.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors that typically focus on the diagnosis and biological treatment of mental health problems. They provide medication to clients to assist with mood stabilization and management of symptoms. Psychiatrists often work within hospital programs. For many clients, they are an integral part of the treatment team.
Psychologists attend graduate school in psychology and have typically completed a Master’s degree and Ph.D. in the field, which spans approximately 7 to 9 years at the graduate level. In graduate school, they are required to study and create psychological research. Upon graduation, they are eligible to register with the College of Psychologists, but must complete a minimum of one year of ‘supervised practice.’ During this year, psychologists complete 3 comprehensive examinations and have a minimum of 1500 hours of practice overseen by a senior psychologist. Psychologists are legally able to diagnose mental health conditions, and they often use psychometric testing to assess clients and determine accurate diagnoses. Other mental health clinicians frequently refer to psychologists for extensive testing and psychotherapy.
Social workers attend graduate school and earn a Master’s of Social Work degree, which typically takes two years, following which they are eligible to complete examinations and register with the College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers of Ontario. They do not diagnose mental health conditions, though they are trained to provide psychotherapy. Social workers are often employed in hospital settings and support patients in connecting to community services. In private practice settings, many social workers provide therapy to individuals, couples, and groups.
Psychotherapists have varied education in the field of therapeutic intervention and are required to have a minimum of 360 hours of post-university education in the field of psychotherapy. Psychotherapists typically have Master’s degrees in counselling or education, though this may not be required. They do not diagnose mental health conditions. Psychotherapists are trained to provide psychotherapy and often work in a variety of settings.
While the training of these professionals differs, it is important to remember that mental health clinicians often receive much additional training beyond their schooling. A clinician’s ability to support individuals with their goals isn’t necessarily best determined solely by their academic training, but rather by both their education and their clinical experience combined.
Workshops & Groups
Here are the most frequently asked questions regarding our caregiver workshops and groups. If you have any other questions, contact us!
What are some of the reasons that caregivers should consider participation in a workshop?
Workshops are a great way to obtain evidence-based theory and strategies in a short amount of time. They are cost-effective and lay the foundation for more tailored interventions, should they be needed. For parents who are looking to learn about specific mental health topics or seeking to prevent mental health issues in children and adolescents workshops are an excellent option.
What are some of the reasons caregivers should consider participation in a group?
Groups provide a cost-effective way to learn about specific mental health topics, in an environment that is supportive to parents. There are opportunities to support and learn from one another, for consultation on specific situations with me, and to learn evidence-based interventions on specific topics.
Privacy and Policies
Here are the most frequently asked questions regarding privacy and other policies. If you have any other questions, contact us!
Do you have a refund policy?
Yes, you can read the FFEW refund policy here. Beyond the refund policy, please contact us directly if you have any questions regarding billing or any products you’ve purchased.
Do you have a privacy policy?
Yes, you can read our privacy policy here. Your privacy is of the highest priority. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your privacy, please contact us directly.