While the psychologist in private practice could stipulate that the session be done virtually, if they feel at risk, the client could decline the virtual session. Again, if they feel at risk, the psychologist would not be forced to do an in-person session. However, the psychologist should be sure that they have considered whether alternatives have been considered or referrals elsewhere made. It would of course be important for the psychologist to work through the ethical decision making process and document their process/rationale. We would reiterate that the back to work guidelines for psychologists approved by Public Health are minimal requirements, and that requiring social distancing and mask use could be combined.
With that said, it may be an expectation of the NSHA/provincial government that psychologists working in the public sector or receiving public money may be required to accommodate clients who wish to be seen in-person.
To answer your question, we do not feel that refusing to see someone who was not vaccinated would be supported.
However, the Covid-19 Guidelines do provide other steps that you could take. You could consider virtual care, if appropriate. Additionally, you could combine some of the measures allowed in the guidelines such as both wearing a mask and social distancing.
