Frequently Asked Questions

Should you need to cancel or change your appointment time we kindly request that you provide us with a minimum of 24 business hours notice. Please note, if you leave a voicemail outside of reception hours it may not be received in time. We recommend email us at info@purpleoakhealth.com. Cancellation fees are equal to the appointment fee.

We accept various payment methods to accommodate your needs. We accept e-transfer, debit cards and most major credit cards, such as Visa, Mastercard and American Express for convenient payment. For contactless payment, use our secure client portal for in-person and virtual based appointments. As an independently run business, our preferred payment method is debit /credit or e-transfer.

We do not offer direct billing, we will provide you with a detailed invoice for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.

Appointments vary depending on the service you are receiving. Please note that our clinic is located on the second floor with one set of stairs, therefore we offer both in-person services as well as virtual-based options for your convenience.

Psychotherapists, social workers, psychologists, and mental health specialists are all professionals who work in the field of mental health, but they have different qualifications, training, and roles:

Psychotherapists are trained in providing psychotherapy or talk therapy to individuals, couples, or groups. They come from various educational backgrounds, such as psychology, counselling, social work, or psychiatry. Psychotherapists focus on helping clients address and manage emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues through therapeutic techniques and interventions.

Psychologists have advanced degrees (typically a Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology, which is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. They are trained in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. Psychologists may provide therapy, conduct research, or work in various specialized areas such as clinical psychology, or counseling psychology. 

Mental health specialists is a broad term that encompasses various professionals specializing in mental health care. It includes psychotherapists, social workers, psychologists, counsellors, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, and other mental health professionals.

Counselling typically refers to a shorter-term, focused approach to helping individuals address specific issues or challenges in their lives. It often deals with everyday concerns, such as stress management, relationship problems, grief, career decisions, or personal growth.

Psychotherapy in Ontario, is regulated and governed by professional bodies, ensuring that practitioners meet rigorous standards to provide safe and effective mental health care. It refers to a collaborative, therapeutic process between a trained psychotherapist and an individual, couple, family, or group to address mental health concerns and promote well-being. Psychotherapists in Ontario, may have various professional backgrounds, such as psychology, social work, or counselling, and provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the unique needs of their clients. These treatments aim to help individuals manage and overcome emotional, behavioral, or psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues by using a variety of therapeutic approaches (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychoanalysis) to explore deeper emotional issues and facilitate personal growth and healing. 

It's important to note that the specific roles and approaches of counsellors and therapists can vary significantly depending on their training, specialization, and the context in which they work. The most crucial factor in seeking help is finding a professional who can address your specific needs and goals, regardless of whether they identify as a counsellor or psychotherapist.

At Purple Oak Health we offer a variety of therapeutic modalities such as individual therapy, assessment, advanced leadership and life coaching sessions, sleep training consultants, behavioural specialist, couples therapy, family therapy and a wide range of group therapy opportunities.

We have a core group of trained professionals specialized in a variety of modalities to best suit your needs.

You can undress to your comfort level, and the therapist will use draping for privacy. Communication is key to ensure your comfort. Our massage therapists are trained in trauma- informed practice and specialize in making your experience safe and comfortable.

It's normal to feel some muscle soreness, similar to post-exercise soreness. Stay hydrated, rest, and consider gentle stretching or a warm compress for relief. Communicate any discomfort with your therapist. Severe pain should not be experienced; if it occurs, consult your therapist or healthcare provider.

In Ontario, Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) must: Graduate from a recognized massage therapy program, pass the Massage Therapy Certification Examinations (MCCE), register with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO), engage in ongoing education, and adhere to ethical standards and carry liability insurance. These qualifications ensure that RMTs provide safe and effective massage therapy services in Ontario.

TCM Acupuncture is a form of treatment from Traditional Chinese Medicine with the principle that there are energetic pathways, or channels, throughout the body that influence associated internal organs and structures. Energy (Qi, pronounced "chee") from these pathways surfaces at various points on the body, called acupoints. Each of these acupoints serves as a tunnel, or access route, to the deeper circulatory channels within. The Japanese style of acupuncture is much more subtle than TCM. In Japanese style of acupuncture the needles are inserted shallower and the "De Qi" sensation is not felt necessarily.  This style gives more importance to the meridians, direction and order of needling. A lot of times this style is focused on the root cause than the local problem.

Acupuncture is considered safe when applied by a licensed and trained acupuncturist/TCM practitioner. Extremely fine gauge needles are inserted at selected points, stimulating these points and thereby activating the body’s natural healing abilities. It is proven to be an effective, safe alternative and complement to medications or even surgery for a variety of conditions. Side effects are minor and could include minimal bruising or soreness can happen after treatment and are usually short lived. 

Acupuncture is generally not painful. Most people feel only minimal discomfort, like a quick pinch or prick when the thin needles are inserted. Sensations vary from person to person, but many find acupuncture to be a relaxing and soothing experience. If you're sensitive to needle sensations, you can communicate with your acupuncturist to minimize any discomfort.