FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Sessions are offered in person (office located in NW Calgary) or virtually if you are residing in Alberta.
DO I REALLY NEED COUNSELLING?
Oftentimes, we are hesitant to seek help. We may think that things aren’t that bad, that we are handling it okay on our own, or we may worry what others would think if they knew we were getting therapy. However, sometimes some brief help, early intervention from a trained professional can help get us back on track and offset future difficulties. Just like how we service and “tune up” our cars and regularly check in with our doctor, it is important to “tune up” our personal coping strategies (especially if we have a family history and genetic risk for challenges with anxiety, depression, etc.). Otherwise, we wait until our car has broken down and then we definitely do need help. No matter how little or big, no matter whether you want to prevent something, catch it early or are feeling “broken down,” I am here to help, to listen and support, give you strategies and information, and to help you get back on track.
IS THE INFORMATION TALKED ABOUT IN THERAPY KEPT PRIVATE AND CONFIDENTIAL?
The content of counselling is private and confidential. Information cannot be shared with anyone else, unless the client signs a written release. The only exceptions to confidentiality are circumstances of:
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Threat of harm to self or others
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Suspected child abuse or neglect (or abuse or neglect of a dependent adult)
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When a judge subpoenas written records.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT IN THE SESSIONS?
Format for adult sessions:
In the first session, you will be asked questions to gather information about your background, presenting concern, goals, and current coping strategies. A plan will be made to help address these goals.
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Format for child sessions:
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1st Session – Parent session to gather background and historical information, goals, and create a treatment plan
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2-4 Sessions – These sessions start with a short check-in with the parent(s). Then I will meet with the child/teen for approximately 40 minutes. The last 10-15 minutes are spent with the parent(s) discussing how to support their child’s needs
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Goals and progress are then re-evaluated
Format for adolescent sessions:
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1st Session – The beginning of the session is spent with the parent(s) gathering background, goals, and developing a treatment plan. Next, I meet with the adolescent to gather his/her perspective, goals, and to begin to develop coping tools. The session typically ends with a short parent debrief to discuss ways to support the teen
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Later sessions vary based on the needs of the family, but continue to involve individual work with the teen and consultation with parent(s)
COSTS
Payment is due at the time of the session by e-transfer.
The fee for a 50-minute session is $230.00 ($230 is the recommended rate by the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta).
Direct billing for Greenshield and Blue Cross.
There is a 24-hour cancellation policy.
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Please note that psychological services are tax deductible.
HOURS AND LOCATION
Appointments are available Saturdays.
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I am located in Tuscany in NW Calgary.