About Occupational Therapy
What is occupational therapy (OT)?
OTs take a functional approach at dealing with your challenges. We treat ADHD, Autism, depression, anxiety, and the stressors of life. We focus on strengthening your skills and building a toolbox to help you manage everyday life and achieve your goals with confidence.
What is the difference between occupational therapy and psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is primarily a talk-based therapy to understand and process feelings, thoughts and trauma — uncovering the reasons why you feel or act the way you do. OT includes supportive counselling around mood and emotions, but the focus is on building skills to manage your concerns and creating a practical toolbox of strategies for everyday life.
Do I have to pick one between occupational therapy and psychotherapy?
No, not at all. People who attend both therapies often find them complementary. Psychotherapy helps you discover yourself and why you feel and act the way you do. OT then gives you the toolbox to handle those challenges and apply it to real life.
What is the difference between occupational therapy and life coaching?
The biggest difference is regulation and clinical training. Life coaching is not a regulated profession in Canada and does not require certification or licensing. OTs are regulated healthcare professionals licensed by a provincial regulatory body, trained at an accredited university, and use an evidence-based approach to help you tackle everyday life with confidence.
Costs & Coverage
Can occupational therapists provide a diagnosis or prescribe medications?
No, OTs cannot diagnose or prescribe medications in Canada. Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Family Doctors, and Nurse Practitioners are able to diagnose. Only Psychiatrists, medical doctors, and Nurse Practitioners can prescribe medications.
Do I need a referral for occupational therapy?
No, you do not need a referral to start OT. If you're interested in a complimentary initial consultation, contact us directly and we'll take it from there.
Is occupational therapy covered by OHIP?
No, unfortunately private OT is not covered by OHIP.
Is occupational therapy covered by insurance?
It depends on your insurance plan and coverage. Check your plan specifically for 'Occupational Therapy' — some plans also allow use of a Health Spending Account. If you have coverage, a receipt will be provided for you to submit for reimbursement. Note that in Ontario, OTs are not able to bill directly to insurance.
Becoming a Client
What is the process for becoming a client?
Contact us for a complimentary initial consultation — we'll meet virtually to see if Everest Therapy is a good fit for you. If you'd like to move forward, we'll book an assessment (typically 90 minutes). We'll start with your story, ask detailed questions to learn about you, set goals together, and prioritise what to work on first in treatment.
Where can I access Everest Therapy?
Virtual sessions are available to individuals in Ontario, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. In-person sessions are available in Ottawa, Ontario.
What should I do if I need immediate support or am having a safety crisis?
If you need immediate help or are experiencing a crisis, call 911 or visit your local emergency department. You can also call or text 9-8-8 anywhere in Canada — support is available 24/7.
We're Here to Help
Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch and we'll be happy to answer your questions directly.