What is a Registered Psychologist?
A registered psychologist is a professional, with a doctoral degree in psychology, who is trained to assess, diagnose and treat a range of behavioural, emotional, cognitive, and relationship problems. As a registered psychologist, as well as a health service psychologist, Dr. Turner works with individuals of all ages, families and couples to help them better understand their problems and find ways to resolve them. The use of short term, solution-focused Cognitive Behaviour Therapy strategies utilized by Dr. Turner helps patients focus on their current problems assisting them with getting on with their lives in a productive way.
What is the Difference Between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?
A psychologist receives 10 to 12 years of university and clinical training focused on understanding human behaviour and psychological assessment and treatment of a wide range of problems. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has completed a residency in psychiatry. A psychiatrist is trained in the medical management of psychiatric disorders. This usually involves prescription of medication.
Do I Need a Referral From a Physician to See a Psychologist?
No medical referral is required for you to see a psychologist. Your insurance company, however, may require a physician's referral in order to reimburse your costs for psychological services. A brief referral note from your physician such as "I am referring my patient to see Dr. Craig Turner for assessment/therapy" will be sufficient. Insurance companies do not ask for the reason the referral is being made. The majority of physicians fax their referral directly to Dr. Turner at 204-233-0031. Dr. Turner then contacts the new patient to arrange their first session. Confirmation of the referral and the first session date is then made with the physician's office.
How are Psychologists Regulated?
By law in Manitoba only persons with a doctoral degree, who have been registered by the Psychological Association of Manitoba (P.A.M.) to practice independently as a Psychologist in Manitoba, can use the designation, ‘Psychologist’. However the terms “Therapist" or "Counsellor" are not regulated by law , require no particular qualifications, and have no government regulated body to ensure ethical standards such as confidentiality or appropriate training are met.