Rates
Psychologists are not covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Program (OHIP). However, many people have alternate coverage and can see a psychologist at no cost to them or at a reduced cost (co-pay).
Extended health care benefits:
Dr. Bernstein is a Registered Psychologist with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. If you are employed, you probably have coverage for the services of a registered psychologist as part of your extended health care benefits.
For example, psychological services may be covered by Manulife Financial, Sunlife Financial or Great West Life Assurance. Even if you do not have benefits at your place of work, you can purchase extended health coverage through a number of insurance companies.
Due to privacy issues, the extended health care benefits providers do not accept direct billing from psychologists. For this reason, Dr. Bernstein accepts credit cards, debit cards, cheques or cash. He will be happy to provide any necessary insurance forms and receipts as required. You will usually be reimbursed within two weeks, often before your credit card bill arrives.
Coverage for Motor Vehicle Accident Victims:
If you have been in a car accident in Ontario and you are having difficulty coping, you may have access to treatment at no cost to you.
Dr. Bernstein is a registered provider with the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA). If you have been in a car accident, this allows for direct billing through the HCAI system after a treatment plan has been submitted and approved.
What is an OCF-18 and how do I have one submitted to my insurer?
The auto insurance company requires the submission of an OCF-18 before they consider approval for psychological services. In the past, the insurance company would pay the psychologist directly for an initial session and the formulation of the required OCF-18. More recently, they have declined payment for these preliminary services.
If you would like to meet with Dr. Bernstein for a preliminary session and have him submit an OCF-18 (if appropriate), you are now required to pay the fee yourself directly to Dr. Bernstein. You will be reimbursed by Dr. Bernstein if the insurer later decides to pay for this initial service.
WSIB Funding:
Dr. Bernstein is also a registered provider with the Workers Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB). If you have suffered a workplace injury this allows for direct billing through the WSIB if they approve coverage.
DND Funding for Veterans:
If you are a veteran or an active member of the armed forces you have coverage for psychological treatment.
Criminal Compensation Board:
If you have been a victim of crime, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board may pay for your psychological treatment once an application has been submitted and approved.
Private Practice Fee:
If you prefer to pay for your treatment sessions privately, the fee is $200 per session. Each session lasts fifty minutes (known as the “fifty minute hour). This allows a few minutes between clients for Dr. Bernstein to make notes and prepare for his next session.