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Is a diagnosis important?

Updated: Dec 22, 2021

The people who are licensed to diagnose are psychiatrists and registered psychologists who have the designation APE behind their name. An Authorized Practice Endorsement (APE) is required to communicate a psychological diagnosis in Saskatchewan.


Do I need a formal diagnosis of PTSD to receive counseling therapy?


No, people who suffer from symptoms related to one or more traumatic events may not meet the full diagnostic criteria of PTSD. If you think you are experiencing the symptoms of an OSI/PTSD then seeking help now can mitigate further injury which means counselling is a reasonable option.



Here are some of the symptoms of an OSI (Operational Stress Injury):

  • Intrusive Memories

  • Avoidance

  • Negative changes in thinking and mood

  • Changes in physical and emotional reactions

  • Intensity of symptoms

  • Suicidal ideation


For Further Detail:

Read up on PTSD or OSI in the OSI-CAN Manual


Our mission is to inspire hope and contribute to the continuous well-being and recovery process of Veterans and Front Line Protectors across Canada.

We seek to empower and encourage them to strive for recovery through peer and professional support while creating greater public awareness.

We at OSI-CAN do not see PTSD or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder as a Disorder, we see it as an Injury you can recover from. If you are suffering from the symptoms of an Occupational or Operational Stress Injury, then a PTSD or PTSI diagnosis is not required to get our help



The target demographic of OSI-CAN are but are not limited to: former and serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces, Allied Armed Forces, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Frontline Protectors --- which include Municipal Police Services, CN Police Services, Emergency Medical Services, Fire Protection Services, Wildland Firefighters, Hospital Trauma personnel, Nurses, healthcare Workers, Social Workers, Animal Control Officers, Coroners, Indigenous Emergency Management, Victim Services Personnel, Emergency Communications Specialist, Corrections Officers, “Volunteer” First Responders, Conservation Officers, Aboriginal Emergency Services personnel, Tow Truck drivers who clean up accident scenes and their spouses/partners. This demographic was chosen due to the commonality of experiences they share through the service they provide to the country and community. We have a special interest and support volunteer first responders as they are not eligible for programs such as Workers' Compensation.


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