Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC): Mental Health Services in Ottawa | Direct Billing Available
VAC Assessments
Comprehensive VAC Psychological Assessments and Therapy for Veterans
At the Canadian Centre for CBT, we proudly support Canadian Armed Forces veterans, RCMP members, and their families by providing VAC-approved psychological assessments and individualized therapy services. Our team of qualified mental health professionals is experienced in working with military-connected individuals and understands the unique psychological impacts of service life.
We offer in-person and secure virtual appointments to ensure care is accessible wherever you are.
What Are VAC Psychological Assessments?
A VAC psychological assessment is a structured evaluation designed to help understand your current mental health functioning and the impact of service-related experiences on daily life.
Assessments are often used to:​
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Clarify or support a mental health diagnosis
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Understand how service experiences affect emotions, relationships, and work
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Inform personalized treatment planning
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Guide applications or ongoing eligibility for VAC benefits and services
Our psychologists and trained clinicians conduct these assessments using clinical interviews, standardized tests, and a careful review of your history. The resulting report is detailed, supportive of your care goals, and, submitted directly to VAC with your consent in the format required for your file.
Who Should Consider a VAC Assessment?
A psychological assessment may be recommended if:
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You are applying for or updating VAC disability benefits
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You are seeking clarity on symptoms or conditions potentially linked to service
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Your VAC case manager, physician, or therapist has requested further evaluation
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You want a comprehensive picture of your mental health to support treatment planning
Our assessments cover a range of mental health concerns including PTSD, anxiety, depression, adjustment challenges, and more.
VAC Therapy Services
Therapy Services Under VAC
Once your assessment is complete, the Canadian Centre for CBT offers evidence-based therapy tailored to your needs. Our services include:
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Individual therapy focused on trauma, depression, anxiety, addictions, stress management, grief, coping skills, and emotional regulation
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Trauma-focused approaches such as cognitive-processing therapy (CPT), prolonged exposure (PE), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and written exposure therapy
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Support for families and caregivers navigating the broader effects of service-related challenges
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Work and life reintegration support as you adjust from military life to civilian roles
We work collaboratively with you to develop treatment goals that align with your well-being, resilience, and VAC benefit planning.
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Access and Coverage
Currently, most Canadian Armed Forces and RCMP Veterans are fully covered for our assessment and treatment services. The Canadian Centre for CBT closely with the VAC and Medavie Blue Cross to streamline coverage ensuring a smooth and stress-free process. Every veteran has the opportunity to speak directly with our OSI Service Director, Dr. Amanda Shamblaw, to determine the appropriate service. We handle any authorization requests for services on your behalf.
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To make access even easier for veterans:
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No family doctor referral is needed
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We directly bill Medavie Blue Cross
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We streamline access to treatment with your initial assessment or treatment appointment offered within two weeks
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We complete all necessary VAC paperwork for disability applications
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We believe that access to care should never be a barrier to recovery.
Veteran-Centred & Compassionate Care
At the Canadian Centre for CBT, we understand that seeking help can be challenging. We approach each assessment and therapy session with respect, empathy, and a deep understanding of military culture and veteran experiences. Our goal is to help you feel supported, informed, and empowered every step of the way.
Take the Next Step:
To learn more about VAC psychological assessments or therapy services — or to schedule your appointment — please contact us today:
Toronto:
Phone: 647-366-8315
Email: toronto@canadiancbt.com
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Ottawa:
Phone: 613-701-3230
Email: ottawa@canadiancbt.com
We welcome inquiries from veterans, CAF members, RCMP members, caregivers, and referring professionals.
* Our clinicians are registered Blue Cross Providers and can complete Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) Disability Assessments as well as assessments required for other workplace disability benefits.
If you are a Veterans Affairs Canada Case Manager and would like to refer your client to the OSIS, please download the attached PDF referral form and fax it to the Canadian Centre for CBT at 416-298-6900.