FAQ
Can I have more than one appointment?
At this time it is not possible to have additional appointments more than once a year. However, certain clients may require some follow up from our service, which would be discussed with them during their appointment. Clients may also be provided with recommendations or referrals for external resources, programs and services.
Is this service free for everyone? What if I have benefits? Why is it free?
Yes. The Mental Health Checkup is free for all adults 18+ in the designated catchment area (East Toronto). Even if you have benefits, they need not be applied to this service.
We wanted to create a mental health service that is accessible, and attaching a cost would limit the service to very few people. Additionally, varying payment options (for example, sliding scale, pay-what-you-can, applying benefits), while useful in many settings, can also create the opportunity for inequitable access to services. Our volunteers contribute their time because they believe in the goals of this service.
Can I use this service if I already see a therapist?
Yes. This is a one time appointment and not ongoing therapy. You are welcome to use this service even if you already see a therapist/counselor.
Will i need to provide any information before or after the session?
When your virtual appointment is confirmed, we will send you consent and intake forms to complete online. We will also request that you complete some of the same forms one month after your appointment. This will not only provide an opportunity for your feedback, but also aid in the evaluation of the program.
Can I receive any notes from the appointment?
You will receive a brief summary of the appointment, including any specific information about referrals and other programs/services suggested. This will be posted within one week of your appointment, in the messaging area of the same secure online portal that you will use for the session, where it can be saved or printed.
Is this service confidential?
We are committed to protecting the privacy of your personal health information and have developed policies and procedures in compliance with the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Document Act, 2004 (PIPEDA) and the Personal Health Information Protection Act, 2004 (PHIPA). Please read more about this in the consent form and/or speak with our team if you have questions.
Why focus on one community? Why East Toronto?
It is important for our therapists to have a good understanding of the community they are serving and the resources available within it (for example, a therapist in East Toronto might not know what services are available on the other end of the same city!). The community in East Toronto is also as diverse as they come. We chose to start our work here as it is home to a vibrant caring community and is also familiar to our staff. At this time, Mental Health Checkups are limited to those who live in East Toronto (areas of Riverdale, Riverside, Danforth Village, Thorncliff Park, East York, Leslieville and the Beaches).
What if I cannot have the appointment in English?
If you do not speak English or are not confident having your appointment in English, please contact our team at info@mentalhealthcheckup.ca so that we can make sure a professional and confidential third party interpreter is booked for your appointment.
What if I am not good with technology and have trouble booking my appointment or filling out the forms online?
You are not alone! Please contact us at info@mentalhealthcheckup.ca or through the "contact us" page on this website so that we can book a time to help you navigate this process over the phone. You may also choose to have your appointment over the telephone, but we recommend trying the video as it can make a world of difference to see each others' faces.
Can my partner, family member, friend, or other support person join the appointment?
Yes. If you feel that this would be of benefit to you and increase your ability to share openly in a nonjudgmental space, then you can absolutely have this person join you. However, we encourage you to be the one to share your own thoughts, feelings, and experiences during this process.
Is this service an ally to people with disabilities, BIPOC and LGBTQ communities?
We use an anti-oppressive framework in our approach and continue to do the work, ask the hard questions and have the tough conversations that [hopefully] make us worthy allies. We recognize that we probably will make mistakes, and are always trying to learn more and do more to become better allies. We very openly and warmly welcome any suggestions, feedback and involvement from members of these communities.
