The first session usually involves a general discussion about your reasons for seeking counselling. We will spend time discussing your personal goals and check in regularly throughout our time together to make sure you feel you are making progress toward them.
We may also discuss some of your personal background and history, to get a sense of when your current problem(s) may have started and/or what has prompted them. You can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with -- after all, we're just getting to know each other!
It's not uncommon to feel anxious when you start counselling. I will do everything I can to make sure you feel safe and comfortable, and if there is anything that would help to increase your sense of safety or comfort, please feel free to let me know.
Counselling can be difficult and personally challenging at times. You may find that it brings about painful emotions, unfamiliar sensations, and/or recollection of unpleasant events or memories. You might be encouraged to step outside your comfort zone, which can be uncomfortable. This discomfort is usually temporary and tends to subside as you develop new coping strategies for tolerating discomfort and/or different ways of thinking.
Depending on what we talk about or work on, you may leave some sessions feeling relieved, motivated, and energized. Other times, you might feel tired, annoyed, or upset. These experiences are all completely normal. If you have any reactions that concern or scare you, please discuss them with me so we can explore ways to help you cope more effectively with them.
Over time, I hope you will discover the many benefits of counselling, which can include improved coping skills, enhanced relationships, increased sense of self-awareness and/or self-control, and achievement of your personal goals.
Session fees are $220 per 50-minute session, in accordance with the Psychologists' Association of Alberta's recommended fee schedule. Payment is due at the time of each session and may be covered in whole or part by your employer benefits or other health insurance plan. Receipts that are not submitted to insurance may be tax-deductible on your income tax return.
Accepted payment methods are cash, cheque, e-transfer, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Visa Debit, and Debit MasterCard. Cashless payment options (e-transfer, credit card)are preferred. Unfortunately regular debit cannot be accepted at this time.
Direct-billing is offered with the following insurance companies*:
*Some individual plans may not allow for direct billing. Please check with your provider to see if there are any restrictions on your plan prior to your session if you are unsure.
It's easy! Just send me a message or give me a call at 780-908-2376 to set up your first session. We can also arrange a free 30-minute phone consultation to answer any questions you may have and ensure we'll be a good fit.
We'll work together to determine how this looks for you. Begin with a free 30 minute phone consultation.