Frequently Asked Questions

Therapy and assessment are two distinct but complementary services — and at MovAttune, we offer both. Therapy involves regular one-on-one sessions with a psychologist focused on understanding and working through the challenges you’re facing. It’s a collaborative, ongoing process aimed at building insight, developing new skills, and creating meaningful change. Assessment involves a structured evaluation process designed to answer specific questions about how you think, feel, and function. It typically includes a clinical interview, standardized questionnaires, and cognitive testing, resulting in a detailed written report with a diagnosis where applicable and recommendations for next steps. Some clients begin with an assessment and then move into therapy once they have a clearer picture of what they’re working with. Others come directly for therapy without needing a formal assessment. At MovAttune, assessments are conducted by Dr. Daniela Gonzalez. Therapy is offered by all three of our clinicians.

What is the difference between therapy and assessment at MovAttune?

A psychodiagnostic assessment is a comprehensive evaluation conducted to better understand how you think, feel, and function. It typically involves a clinical interview, standardized questionnaires, and in some cases, cognitive or neuropsychological testing. The assessment process results in a detailed report that clarifies what is going on, provides a diagnosis where applicable, and offers recommendations for treatment, support, or accommodations. A psychodiagnostic assessment may be helpful if you:
  • Have been wondering whether you might have ADHD, anxiety, depression, or another condition
  • Are seeking workplace or academic accommodations and need formal documentation
  • Want a clearer understanding of your cognitive profile and how you process information
  • Have been struggling for a long time without knowing why
  • Have been referred by a physician, psychiatrist, or other health professional

At MovAttune, assessments are conducted by Dr. Daniela Gonzalez, our registered neuropsychologist. To get started, please contact Dr. Gonzalez directly to discuss availability and next steps.

What is a psychodiagnostic assessment and who is it for?

Yes — Many adults reach adulthood without ever receiving a formal ADHD diagnosis, despite struggling with attention, focus, organization, and follow-through for most of their lives. For some, the challenges become more apparent during periods of increased demand — a new job, parenthood, burnout, or a major life transition. Our ADHD assessments for adults are conducted by Dr. Daniela Gonzalez, a registered neuropsychologist with specialized training and experience in ADHD evaluation. The assessment process is comprehensive and results in a detailed report that can be used to guide treatment, access workplace/academic accommodations, or simply help you better understand yourself. If you have been wondering whether ADHD might be part of your story, we encourage you to reach out. To inquire about availability and next steps, please contact Dr. Gonzalez directly.

Do you offer ADHD assessments for adults?

The length of therapy varies depending on the person, their goals, and the nature of what they’re working on. There is no one-size-fits-all answer — and we think that’s actually a good thing. Some clients come with a specific goal in mind and find that 8-12 sessions gives them the tools and insight they need to move forward independently. Others prefer longer term work — using therapy as an ongoing space for reflection, growth, and continued development. At MovAttune, we don’t believe in keeping clients in therapy longer than is helpful, nor do we rush the process. In your first session or two, your psychologist will work with you to develop a plan that reflects your goals, your pace, and what you’re hoping to get out of the experience. The most important thing is that therapy feels purposeful and valuable to you at every stage.

How long does therapy typically take?

The purpose of therapy is to gain a greater understanding of your struggles (and factors that are contributing to these struggles) and work towards resolving them or through the distress you are experiencing as a result.

Your psychologist will foster a therapeutic relationship and environment of safety, warmth, respect, and authenticity. This will help you and your psychologist to learn and understand your situation, thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and associated patterns.

While we will implement research-based strategies and therapy approaches, therapeutic gains will require you to be a willing and active participant in the therapy process within and between sessions. Therapy requires a willingness to discuss openly and honestly about difficult topics, which can be easier for some and not for others - and that’s okay! Together, we can discuss the discomfort and work through developing the skills and tolerance for you to share openly. However, therapeutic gains are not always guaranteed for various possible reasons. Not everyone is ready for therapy, and it may take trial and error before finding a good fit or strategies that work.

If you have any questions, please reach out using the general inquiry form, by email: psychology.services@movattune.com, or reach out to any of the MovAttune psychologists you may be interested in working with.

What can I expect from therapy?

After reviewing the required consent forms together, the first session or two includes data or information gathering so that together we can work towards developing a therapy plan and formulation. You will be asked several personal questions to gain a greater understanding of your current struggles, including some history and the development of the current problem and factors that are currently contributing to and maintaining the problem. You will also be asked to reflect on your personal strengths and effective strategies so that we can build on fostering what is already effectively working for you! 

What can I expect from the first session?

Sessions are 50 minutes. Shorter or longer sessions can be offered if agreed upon.

How long are therapy sessions?

You do not need a referral to receive services at MovAttune, however, some insurance companies require a referral to provide you with any coverage/reimbursement.

It is recommended you check with your insurance provider first to clarify. 

Do I need a referral to access services?

Yes, clients must be physically present in Alberta to receive any services from any of the MovAttune psychologists.

Do I have to be in Alberta to receive services from you?

The time for which your appointments are scheduled has been reserved for you. You are requested to notify your psychologist at least 48 hours in advance should you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. If you do not give the 48-hour notice or do not show for your scheduled appointment, you will be charged the full session fee (i.e., $245).

Please note that third-party payers (e.g., insurance companies) do not usually reimburse cancellation fees.

Do you have a cancellation/no-show policy?

Alberta Health Care does not cover private psychological services.

Are services covered by Alberta Health Care?

  • Canada Life
  • Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance (Johnston Group)
  • CINUP (Johnston Group)
  • ClaimSecure
  • Cowan
  • Desjardins Insurance
  • First Canadian (Johnston Group)
  • GroupHEALTH (Manion)
  • GroupSource (Manion)
  • Industrial Alliance
  • Johnson Inc.
  • Johnston Group Inc. (Johnston Group)
  • Manion (Manion)
  • Manulife Financial
  • Maximum Benefit (Johnston Group)

Many extended health benefit plans include coverage for psychological services. We encourage you to contact your insurance provider before your appointment to understand what services are covered under your plan.

We are able to direct bill several insurance providers, though coverage and direct billing availability can vary between plans. If direct billing is unavailable, we will provide you with a receipt that can be submitted for reimbursement.

Insurance providers we can direct bill:

Are services covered by health benefits insurance? Do you offer direct billing for services?

What are the fees for services, and how do I pay?

Therapy Sessions
Therapy sessions are $245 per session (each session is 50 minutes).
 
Psychodiagnostic Assessments
Assessments usually involve 2-3 appointments with Dr. Daniela, and completing of required questionnaires. If the assessment is completed in its entirety, you will receive feedback and a final report of the findings. Psychodiagnostic assessments are charged at an hourly rate of $245. Price may vary depending on circumstances and will be discussed with you.

Community Talks
Workshops can be customized in length and topic, and therefore, fees will vary. Please inquire here to connect.

Additional Fees
Additional fees may be charged for services that require time outside of sessions (including completion of any letters or documents) at the fee of $245/hour, using 15-minute increments, based on time spent.

Payments
Payments can be made through e-transfer, with any major credit card, or throught direct billing and are due at the end of the therapy session. Payments for assessments and community talks will be discussed at the time of agreement of services.

In Alberta, the title ‘Psychologist’ is a protected and regulated designation overseen by the College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP). Registered psychologists hold graduate level degrees — at either the masters or doctoral level — and must meet rigorous training, supervised practice, and examination requirements before being licensed to practice. Counselling therapists and other mental health practitioners in Alberta are working toward regulation, though this process is still underway. As a result, the training, credentials, and standards of practice among counsellors can vary. At MovAttune, all three of our clinicians are registered psychologists with doctoral level degrees — bringing specialized training in evidence-based assessment and treatment that reflects the highest level of preparation in our field.

What is the difference between a psychologist and a counsellor?

We do not provide emergency or crisis services. If you are experiencing an emergency, please visit your local emergency or urgent care centre.

If you are not experiencing an emergency and are in distress, please reach out to any of the following support options:

Alberta Mental Health Line
 1-877-303-2642

Distress Centre
1-403-266-4357

Canada Suicide Prevention Line
1-833-456-4566

What if I feel very distressed and cannot wait for a therapy session?

Have more questions?

reach out