OSI-CAN Blogs

3 days ago1 min read

Understand the Types of Mental Health Professionals

There are three main types of mental health professionals you may encounter:

Psychologists

Psychologists can assess mental health issues, create treatment plans, and provide psychotherapy or psychological treatments that focus on addressing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Psychiatrists

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health. They perform assessments, prescribe medications, recommend treatments, and can request additional medical tests or exams when necessary.

Social Workers

Social workers provide psychotherapy, helping clients build skills and access personal or community resources to manage their problems and needs.

It's essential to check your benefits plan to understand which type of professional is covered and what type of registration or qualifications are required. If you have a family physician, they may also play a role in coordinating your mental health care.

OSI-CAN

Oct 111 min read

Understand Your Coverage

Before starting your search for a mental health professional, it's important to be informed about your coverage and available services. Knowing your needs and what resources are accessible can help you take a proactive and preventative approach to your mental health care. Early intervention is key.

1. Workers' Compensation Board (WCB) or Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) If your mental health treatment involves WCB or WSIB, your treatment costs may be covered. However, you'll need to follow specific procedures to ensure both you and your care provider meet the necessary qualifications for coverage. Stay in contact with your WCB/WSIB representative to understand any limitations or requirements.

2. Employee and Family Assistance Plan (EFAP) EFAP often offers short-term, problem-focused support for mental health concerns.

3. Extended Benefits Plan Your employer may offer coverage through a third-party insurer for additional mental health services.

4. Combined Coverage Some employers provide both EFAP and extended benefits.

It's important to remember that mental health professional fees may only be covered if specific guidelines are followed. For example, your benefits provider may require that services be provided by professionals with particular qualifications or credentials. Contact your Human Resources department or benefits provider to understand the details of your plan and coverage options when you need them.

OSI-CAN

Feb 271 min read

Black History Month

In Canada, Black History Month is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of Black Canadians across various fields, including in the realm of first responders. While the history of Black first responders in Canada may not be as extensively documented as in the United States, there have been significant contributions from Black Canadians in emergency response roles throughout history.

In the early years of Canadian settlement, Black Canadians, including those who were formerly enslaved, played important roles in their communities, often serving as volunteer firefighters and providing assistance during emergencies. Despite facing discrimination and systemic barriers, Black Canadians have continued to serve as firefighters, police officers, , armed forces members, correctional officers, paramedics, and other first responders, contributing to the safety and well-being of their communities.

Black Canadians have also made significant contributions to emergency response leadership and advocacy. In recent years, efforts have been made to increase diversity and representation within Canadian emergency response agencies, including initiatives aimed at recruiting and supporting Black first responders.

Overall, Black Canadians have a rich history of service and resilience in the field of first response, and Black History Month provides an opportunity to celebrate and honor their contributions.