Question 1

What are the fees?

Answer

We follow the recommended rate for Psychologists in Alberta of $200 per 50 minute session. https://psychologistsassociation.ab.ca/ However, we recognize that for some this cost makes it impossible to work with a counsellor. For this reason, we do offer sliding fee rates as an exception. Additionally, we are able to direct bill a variety of health benefits providers.

Question 2

What is a first session like?

Answer

One of the main goals with a first session is to help you and your therapist to get to know one another and to help you to begin to feel at ease. A typical first session involves reviewing paperwork, an opportunity to ask any questions that you might have about paperwork, your therapist or counselling and, a discussion about what brought you in for therapy.

Question 3

How often will I need to come?

Answer

In the beginning, sessions will typically occur weekly. However, the goal is that as you feel progress, we reduce the frequency until no further sessions are required. Most individuals do not require weekly therapy for very long.

Question 4

Does therapy really help?

Answer

Research shows that working with a qualified Psychologist or Counsellor helps most people to make progress towards goals. Therapy does not guarantee goal achievement, but for most it means making steady progress towards them. Interestingly, one of the best predictors of success is how well you connect with your therapist. Many studies show that this connection is more important than the specific skills and therapeutic model that are used.

Question 5

Do you offer free consultation?

Answer

We offer a free telephone consultation prior to booking a first appointment. Additionally, because of the important connection between the quality of your relationship with your therapist and success in counselling, we offer a money-back guarantee if you feel that your therapist isn't a good fit for you after your first session. *This only applies to the first session*

Question 6

What if I don't like my therapist?

Answer

If you don't like your therapist or you feel it just isn't a good fit, you are significantly less likely to reach your goals for therapy. Because of the important connection between the quality of your relationship with your therapist and success in counselling, we offer a money-back guarantee if you feel that your therapist isn't a good fit for you after your first session. *This only applies to the first session*

Question 7

Do you prescribe medications?

Answer

No. MD's and Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medication in Alberta. We can discuss the medications you are taking and I can make a recommendation to work with a doctor to prescribe medication. However, I am unable to provide specific recommendations regarding the specific medication that you should be taken, guidelines for dosage, or any other specific details regarding your use of prescription medications.

Question 8

Should I take medication for my mental health issue?

Answer

Certain mental health issues are best treated with a combination of therapy and medications. However, for most mental health issues medication is not required. Most studies indicate that psychological interventions can be as effective as medication for things like depression and anxiety, but with less likelihood of relapse. For some, therapy alone is insufficient to reach the baseline mood that they are looking for. In these cases, exploring a combination of medication and psychotherapy make sense, and often the combination results in better rates of success than either alone. Ultimately, if you are opposed to medication it would only be recommended after other strategies have been tried and you still have not achieved your goals.