Confidentiality & Disclosure of Personal Information
With some exceptions (noted below), all information shared with me is confidential and no personal health information will be released to a third party without explicit consent.
There are specific legal exceptions to this confidentiality, most notably:
1. If there is risk of imminent substantial harm to oneself or another individual;
2. If there is reason to believe that a child needs protection, such as where a child has been or is likely to be physically, sexually or emotionally harmed, abused or exploited;
3. If an adult is at risk of abuse or neglect, and is unable to seek support and assistance.
A complete overview of my Professional Practice Policies is included in the Informed Consent for the Provision of Psychological Services document which is sent to all new clients.
Secure Communication
Contact via Telephone
If you wish to schedule a consultation via 250-258-8425 please leave your name, preferred contact number, and brief message. Please indicate whether or not I may leave a message on your voice answering service if I am unable to reach you directly.
I endeavour to return phone calls within 5 business days, unless otherwise noted.
Please do not send text messages/SMS to this number as such messages are not secure and will not be received.
Contact via Email
If you wish to schedule a consultation via dralishiawilliams@telus.net please note that email is not considered a secure means of communication. Please limit your message to your consultation request and provide your name and preferred contact number.
Contact via Digital Platform
I use a secure/encrypted PIPA compliant digital platform for sending/receiving documents and communicating with clients. The use of this platform is designed to protect your personal health data and is in accordance with the Personal Information Protection Policy.
*Please note that the above forms of communication are only monitored periodically during regular business hours. None of the above forms of communication are intended for use if you are in crisis.
If you are experiencing extreme distress or are suicidal please connect with emergency services by phoning 911 or presenting to your local hospital.
Additional crisis support contacts are listed under the Resources tab.
Fees & Financial Coverage
Fees are in accordance with the recommended rates for Registered Psychologists by the BCPA.
Standard treatment fees are $250 per consultation/appointment unless agreed upon under another arrangement.
Assessment fees are billed under a separate fee structure and are currently only provided under direct referral.
The Medical Services Plan in British Columbia does not provide financial coverage for the services of Registered Psychologists. Clients either pay for services directly (which are tax deductible as a health care expense under some conditions), or have partial/full coverage through either an extended health care plan, an employee assistance program, or another organization such as WorkSafe BC or the RCMP.
If you have approved coverage under WorkSafe BC or the RCMP, payments will be arranged directly with the organization.
Please refer to your benefits plan or inquire about coverage with your insurance provider.
Methods of Payment
Payments are due at the time of service and can be made via online invoicing, Cash, Cheque, Interac e-transfer, or Credit Card.
If you have approved coverage under WorkSafe BC or the RCMP payments will be arranged directly with the organization.
Cancellation Policy
Appointments must be canceled 2 business days in advance (e.g., if an appointment is scheduled for a Monday it must be canceled no later than Thursday of the proceeding week) or incur a charge of 50% of the total appointment cost.
Office Environment
For the comfort of others I try to maintain a fragrance-free environment. If possible, please refrain from wearing perfume/cologne when visiting the office. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.