Seeking Therapy
The taboo against mental health care is finally lifting in our culture, and that means “Calgary therapy” is becoming a more popular search term in and around the city. Whether it is due to our up-and-down economy, global health scares, or general difficulties that many people experience, Calgarians from Symons Valley to Silverado are mental health resources more than ever before.
What You Need To Know
What you need to know is that you don’t have to face these struggles alone. Our experienced and passionate team of psychologists, located in Douglasdale in southeastern Calgary, have the skills required to help everyone – with trauma, anxiety, depression, anger management, self confidence, and more.
If you or someone you know could benefit from these tools for getting through hard times, reach out today and let’s get to know each other!
How Therapy Helps
Therapy can be incredibly beneficial for people struggling with various issues, including:
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mental health concerns
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life transitions
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relationship problems
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general lifestyle difficulties
By providing a safe and supportive space to explore one's thoughts and feelings, therapy can help people gain insight into themselves, develop coping strategies, enhance communication and relationship skills, and ultimately improve overall well-being. With the guidance of a trained therapist, individuals can learn to manage their emotions, reduce stress and anxiety, and make positive changes in their lives.
Taking The First Steps
Taking the first steps toward better mental health should be a priority for all people in our city, whether they’re a C-Train driver, an executive in the Bow Building, or an entrepreneur with a shop near us in Quarry Park. And best of all, when you start the process, there are multiple options for how to proceed. If you would like some tips on how to find the best therapist for your needs, simply click this button.
Couples Therapy
Within couples therapy, it is important to remember that there is no such thing as a "perfect" relationship. Couples may seek therapy at any relationship stage, a habit which may have started before the relationship even existed, and for any number of reasons, such as gaslighting or infidelity. Being genuinely committed to the relationship is the first step. Getting the right help to ensure that commitment goes more smoothly is the second step – so schedule a session or a workshop with one of our couples counselling specialists today!
Marriage Counselling
Marriage counselling is an incredible tool that helps guide couples through their problems to avoid divorce. When divorce happens, it often results in extreme difficulties – it’s considered one of life’s most stressful events for adults, and if children are involved, they may experience negative effects such as denial, feelings of abandonment, anger, blame, guilt, preoccupation with reconciliation, and acting out. If you feel it is time for marriage counselling, we would love to be there for you, using techniques like the Gottman Method to help. Reach out to one of our Calgary psychologists today and take the first step.
Family Therapy
Family therapy is a type of counselling where the entire family group comes in together, rather than individually. Then we all work together to discover the nature of the problem(s) at hand and clarify how it affects each person, who is encouraged to share their view of the problem as well as possible solutions. With time (and depending on the situation), we can progress through the issues with further sessions that do not involve the entire family.
Personal Therapy
For many people, therapy offers a safe place for the disclosure of personal emotions and any experiences that may be difficult to express. The goal of individual counselling is healing, self-awareness, acceptance, growth, and your own personal development. If you are looking for some individual therapy, then the compassionate, caring team at our psychology clinic in Calgary is the answer!
Therapy for Teens
The teenage years are challenging for young people, who are trying to figure out who they are and who they will be in the future. During this time, adolescents experience feelings of confusion and a flood of new desires, and are often more prone to becoming involved with high-risk activities. Teenage therapy and counselling, perhaps even as part of a group session, can help young people find healthier ways to express themselves and feel heard and validated.
Therapy for Children
Children can have anxieties and sensitivities just like anyone else. They may have difficulties adjust after a life change or a move, or may not yet have the skills to express themselves. But one of our child therapists can help! Our child therapy team is guided by principles of attachment and development, believing that once this is addressed, children thrive. Seeing one of our psychologists here in Calgary can be a very effective first step toward helping your child progress in a positive direction.
Why Are There So Many Different Approaches to Therapy?
Psychological therapy benefits from a diverse range of approaches due to the inherent complexity and individuality of human experiences. No single therapeutic model can comprehensively address the myriad facets of mental health. Human psychology is nuanced, influenced by various factors such as genetics, culture, environment, and personal history. As a result, therapists draw from an array of approaches.
Our Therapy Approaches
Our therapists have a broad range of methodologies and approaches for the people of Calgary to use. These are matched to each person and their unique circumstances. Some of these include:
1) The Gottman Method
The Gottman Method is a research-based approach to couples therapy that focuses on strengthening relationships through building friendship, managing conflict, and creating shared meaning. Developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, the approach is grounded in more than four decades of scientific research on what makes relationships succeed or fail. It uses assessment tools to identify strengths and challenges, with specific interventions to help couples deepen their connection, improve communication and intimacy, and create a fulfilling, long-lasting relationship.
2) Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a form of therapy that uses rapid eye movements, relaxation, and visualizations to help clients process traumatic memories and reduce distressing symptoms. These techniques allow individuals to create new neural pathways that reprocess their experiences, promote healing, and overcome any negative impacts.
3) Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a goal-oriented therapy that focuses on changing negative patterns of thought and behaviour – replacing them with more positive and realistic ones while building better coping strategies. CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are interconnected, and that by changing the way we think and behave, we can improve our emotional well-being.
4) Narrative Therapy
Narrative therapy is an approach that focuses on the stories people tell about themselves and their lives, using a process called externalization. By changing these stories, individuals can change the way they see themselves and their experiences. Narrative therapy involves exploring and deconstructing these stories, and creating new ones that are more positive and empowering.
5) Acceptance & Commitment Therapy
This approach builds mindfulness, acceptance of difficult emotions, and a commitment to aligning actions with core values. By embracing these principles, individuals get more psychological flexibility, which enables them to better cope with life's challenges and pursue a more fulfilling life.
6) Somatic Therapy
Somatic therapy focuses on the mind-body connection and involves becoming aware of physical sensations that may indicate stress or triggers, such as muscle tension, stomach aches, headaches, shallow breathing, throat tightness, or numbness. It allows you to learn techniques to calm or discharge stress, tension, and trauma, promoting holistic healing and well-being.
7) Other Types of Therapy
There are many other types of therapy that we offer to Calgarians as well – Solution Focused Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and even more. That means we can work with you to find a custom fit for your needs, whatever they may be… so feel free to ask all about them!
Scheduling a Therapy Session in Calgary
Even if you’ve never booked a psychological therapy session before, scheduling one is a simple process. Simply follow the steps below.
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15-Minute Consultation
Start by filling out our user-friendly online contact form, which will set you up with a free 15-minute consultation with a therapist of your choice. That’s where you’ll briefly share your personal concerns and what you hope to achieve. It also gives us the opportunity to make sure we’re a good fit for you, too.
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Choose Your Therapist
After your free consultation, take the time to reflect on your experience and decide if you feel comfortable and connected with the therapist you spoke with. If so, you can book your first session. If not, we can try someone else, or recommend a different clinic if we feel we cannot provide you with what you need.
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Choose Appointment
Choose the format – in-person or online – that best suits your comfort level and circumstances. Our face-to-face sessions are usually what people prefer but our virtual sessions are available and always secure, confidential, and convenient. Make your choice and we'll warmly welcome you for your appointment!
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How much does therapy cost?Therapy ranges from 175-250 dollars per hour, depending on your provider, level of education, and training. Total cost will depend on the severity of difficulties you are experiencing, and the length of treatment required. Pricing is set by the Psychologist's Association of Alberta
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Is counselling covered by my health insurance?Yes! Typically your private health insurance such as Blue Cross, SunLife, Manulife will cover the cost of qualified registered therapist such as Psychologist. Check with your insurance to see what benefits you are entitled to. Benefits typically reset at the end of the year or in April. Make the most of your benefits! Read our blog: "Are Calgary Psychological Services Covered By Benefits?"
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Do you offer direct billing?At this time we can direct bill Blue Cross, and Green shield. We hope other insurance providers will soon offer this convenient option as well. If you are with a different company because we do all invoices and subsequent receipts electronically, you can submit your claims and most clients report to us that they are reimbursed quite quickly.
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How do I know which therapist to pick?There is good research to suggest that a good "fit" between you and your therapist is a prime driver in whether you will get the most out of therapy. We recommend you browse the therapist's profiles and choose someone who resonates with you, and specializes in what you are most concerned about.
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What form of payment do you accept?We accept all major credit cards, e-transfers, cheque or cash. Payment is due the day services are rendered.
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What is Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)ART incorporates a combination of techniques used in many other traditional psychotherapies. ARTworks directly to reprogram the way in which distressing memories and images are stored in the brain so that they no longer trigger strong physical and emotional reactions. ART accomplishes this through the use of rapid eye movements similar to eye movements that occur during dreaming. Although techniques similar to these are used in other types of therapies. ART’s very specific and directive approach can achieve rapid recovery from symptoms and reactions that may have been present for many years. ART combines long respected, sound treatment practices with safe and effective methods validated by current scientific research studies conducted by the University of South Florida.
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Will therapy work for me?While individual therapy can be highly beneficial for many people, its effectiveness depends on your willingness to engage in the process and work collaboratively with your therapist. If you go in with an open mind and a real dedication to self-improvement, chances are very good that you’ll see positive results.
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How do I find the right therapist for me?Your free 15-minute consultation allows you to connect with potential therapists and determine the best fit for you. It seems unnecessary but this is a vital step in establishing a strong relationship of trust and healing.
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Can I get free individual counselling?We currently do not offer free counselling services. However, many health insurance plans cover our services, and we strive to provide affordable and accessible therapy options to accommodate various financial situations. Read more on our main FAQ page.
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How do I know if I need individual therapy?If you find yourself facing personal challenges, emotional distress, relationship difficulties, or simply seeking personal growth, individual therapy can be a valuable resource to help you navigate these concerns and foster positive changes in your life.
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What is individual counselling?Individual counselling is one form of therapy where a skilled and educated therapist meets with you one-on-one to explore your experiences and your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs in a safe and confidential space. The goal of individual therapy is to help you gain insight and new perspectives into your challenges, develop adaptive coping skills, and make positive lasting changes in your life.
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How long does personal counselling take?The length of personal counselling varies based on your needs and goals that you want to achieve. Some people may only need a small amount of sessions to address a specific issue, while other people may require more extensive treatment over a longer period of time. Your therapist will work with you to figure out a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.
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What types of issues can individual counselling help with?Individual counseling can help with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, self-esteem, grief and loss, trauma, and addiction. It can also be helpful for those facing major life transitions, ie., divorce or retirement. Most everyone benefits from having a neutral party listen to their experiences and help gain new perspectives.
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What can I expect during my own session?During an individual counselling session in Calgary, you can expect to have an open and honest conversation with your therapist about your concerns. Your therapist will ask additional questions to gain a better understanding of your situation. Your therapist may recommend resources such as books, articles, or videos for you to look at in between sessions. Sessions are typically 50-60 minutes long and are held on a regular basis, usually weekly or bi-weekly or monthly.
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How do I know if individual counselling is right for me?Individual counselling can be a very beneficial form of therapy for anyone who is looking to improve their mental health and wellbeing. If you are struggling with a certain issue or are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, individual counselling could be a good option for you to look into. It is important to find yourself a therapist who you feel comfortable talking to and who has significant experience in treating your specific concerns.
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What's your couples counselling strategy based on?Our couples counseling therapy is based on the world-renowned Gottman Institute methodology of marriage and relationship therapy. This service begins with a thorough assessment; including interviews both together and individually, as well as a number of online assessments. The assessment takes 4-6 hours. After you have received feedback from the assessment we will work together to overcome weaknesses in the relationship. Treatment length varies depending on your unique relationship needs.
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How much does couples counselling cost in Calgary?Prices range due to a variety of factors, and is set at a provincial level by the Psychology Association of Alberta. The usual price is between $220-$250 per 60-minute session. However, the actual cost to you might be substantially lower or even zero, since nearly all benefits plans cover services delivered by a registered therapist. We can even direct bill several of them, such as Blue Cross and Green Shield. Check your insurance documentation to see what you are entitled to, and you can find more specific information summarized here.
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Do you also offer marriage counselling?Yes. Marriage counselling and couples counselling are very similar. All marriages are couples but not all couples are married. Many of the same methods used to help couples in common law or longterm relationships are also used for couples who are married. Learn All About Marriage Counselling in our blog!
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Is marriage counselling covered by insurance?Yes! As we’ve mentioned before, we are registered professionals – which means most insurance plans cover our services. Depending on the company, you can direct bill (as we do), but otherwise you can submit the receipts to your insurance provider.
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Is marriage counselling free?Unfortunately it is not, but the costs are usually covered by insurance. Read more on our blog about benefits.
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Is marriage counselling tax deductible?This is a bit of a grey area, as it depends on what province you live in. In Alberta, psychologist services are considered a tax-deductible medical expense, but someone who is solely a marriage and family therapist is not. Follow the information on the Government of Canada site for more information.
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How many marriage counselling sessions will be needed?This varies quite a bit from one couple to another. If the sessions are in response to a big crisis, they will need more than if it is simply some maintenance issues. It’s very difficult to give even a ballpark figure.
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Will marriage counselling help save my marriage?The key word here is “help”. Counselling is just one part of a marriage success strategy that involves additional effort on the part of both spouses. If you are willing to put the work in, take the counsellor’s advice, and make things better, you will have much different results than if you have already made up your mind beforehand about ending the relationship. We do good work, but we can’t perform miracles!
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Why does marriage counselling fail?The biggest reason that people don’t get the results they want is that they don’t put in the necessary effort, but it may also come down to a lack of financial resources, or a complete disconnection of goals and communication on one side of the relationship. Mutual respect and motivation are minimum requirements for success. You can read more about getting the most out of therapy sessions here.