Below are the questions families ask me most often. If your question is not answered here, the fastest way to get a real answer is to book a free 15-minute consultation.
About the psychosocial evaluation
What is a psychosocial evaluation?
A psychosocial evaluation is a structured assessment of a person's social functioning, autonomy, and need for representation, conducted by a licensed social worker. In the context of homologation or tutorship, the report is submitted to the Superior Court of Quebec alongside a medical evaluation and supports the family's application.
Who needs a psychosocial evaluation?
Any family in Quebec applying to homologate a protection mandate or to institute tutorship for an adult who has lost capacity. Both a medical evaluation and a psychosocial evaluation are required by the Court.
Where is the evaluation conducted?
The psychosocial evaluation is a home visit. I meet your loved one in their own environment, whether that is their home, a seniors' residence, a long-term care facility, or wherever they currently live.
Do you meet virtually or in person?
Initial family meetings are often done virtually, which makes it easier for relatives in different cities or with busy schedules to participate together. The evaluation visit with the person being assessed is always done in person, in their home or place of residence.
How long does the process take?
From booking to written report, two to four weeks is realistic for most files. The home visit itself is usually 45 to 90 minutes. The full homologation, including the notary's work and Court processing, typically runs three to nine months. More on the full timeline here.
Should I do the medical evaluation first?
Yes. I ask that the medical evaluation already be completed, or at least in progress, before I begin the psychosocial assessment. The two reports complement each other, and starting the medical side first keeps the file moving.
Credentials and area
Are you a member of the OTSTCFQ?
Yes. I am a member in good standing of the Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et thérapeutes conjugaux du Québec, permit number GOLk1511060TS. You can verify this on the Order's public registry.
What areas do you serve?
Greater Montreal and the West Island, including Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Pointe-Claire, Beaconsfield, Kirkland, Pierrefonds-Roxboro, Senneville, Baie-d'Urfé, Île-Bizard, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Côte-Saint-Luc, Côte-des-Neiges, Saint-Laurent, Town of Mount Royal, Westmount, Laval, Longueuil, and Brossard. I also serve off-island areas including Hudson, Saint-Lazare, and Vaudreuil-Dorion.
What language do you work in?
I work in English and can also offer services in French. Families across the Greater Montreal area and the West Island are welcome to contact me in either language.
Fees and coverage
How much does a private psychosocial evaluation cost?
Private psychosocial evaluations in Quebec generally run between $1,500 and $3,000 depending on the file. The free 15-minute consultation is the fastest way to get a quote for your specific situation. Full cost breakdown of homologation here.
Does RAMQ cover the cost?
No. RAMQ does not cover psychosocial evaluations performed in the private sector. CLSC services are free, but wait times can range from several months to over a year, and not every CLSC is taking on these evaluations consistently.
Does private insurance reimburse the cost?
Some private extended health plans reimburse a portion of social worker services. Coverage for incapacity assessments specifically is uncommon. Check with your insurer before assuming reimbursement.
Process and referrals
Do I need both a medical and a psychosocial evaluation?
Yes. Both reports are required by the Court for homologation or tutorship. The medical evaluation is conducted by a physician, the psychosocial evaluation by a social worker. The two reports complement each other.
Can you recommend a notary?
Yes. I work with several notaries across the Greater Montreal area, including notaries who handle the non-contentious procedure for uncontested homologations. I can suggest someone whose practice fits your situation. You can also search the Chambre des notaires du Québec directory.
Other services and booking
Can you help with autism or intellectual disability support?
Yes. I provide pre- and post-diagnosis support for families navigating autism and intellectual disabilities, including help understanding a diagnosis, coordinating services, advocating for an individualized education program (IEP), and counselling for parents, siblings, and the diagnosed individual. More on autism support here.
Is the 15-minute consultation really free?
Yes, completely free, with no obligation. The consultation is for us to discuss your situation and decide together whether I am the right fit. If I am not, I will tell you and point you toward a colleague who is.
How do I book?
The fastest way is to book the free 15-minute consultation online. You can also call 514-378-8800 or email kgoldman.msw@gmail.com.