Psychologists can sign off on medical leave

The Ordre des psychologues du Québec is currently running an ad in an issue of the business newspaper Les Affaires devoted to mental health. It tells the story of Philippe, a fictional client with depression who is unable to work.

Psychologists can sign a doctor’s note for medical leave 

Did you know that psychologists can sign a medical certificate for a client who needs to take time off work for mental health reasons? Unfortunately, few employers or insurers currently accept medical notes from psychologists, although this would let patients avoid long wait times for doctor’s appointments.

Philippe’s story

When he realizes he is burnt out and no longer able to work, Philippe makes an appointment with the psychologist he had seen a few years earlier. After two sessions, the psychologist diagnoses Philippe with depression and signs a note authorizing a work stoppage. Philippe then begins psychotherapy, a course of treatment that scientific research has shown to be effective.

“Psychologists are mental health experts. They conduct a rigorous assessment before making a diagnosis, and will always recommend that their patient consult their physician when the circumstances warrant it,” notes Ordre president Dr. Christine Grou, psychologist.

Timely treatment 

By swiftly consulting his psychologist, Philippe avoided having to wait to see a physician. “We know that when depression is not treated in a timely manner, it can deteriorate, grow more complex, and lead to longer leaves from work that end up costing employers more,” explains Dr. Grou. “Recognizing a psychologist’s work stoppage note streamlines the process for employees like Philippe by providing alternative solutions for obtaining insurance benefits while on leave from work.” 

Ongoing monitoring, from initial stoppage to return to work

Psychologists are qualified to monitor their clients’ condition and assess their ability to resume work. They can create a return-to-work plan based on the client’s condition, and follow up once they start working again.

A legally recognized diagnosis 

With the November 2024 enactment of Bill 67, An Act to amend the Professional Code for the modernization of the professional system and to broaden certain professional practices in the field of health and social services, psychologists are now explicitly entitled to use the term “diagnosis” for their clinical findings. Employers and insurers should no longer hesitate to recognize psychologists’ diagnoses and accept their work stoppage notes.