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Individual Counselling in Calgary

Welcome to Flourish Psychological Services. It may not seem like much, but by reading these words, you've taken the courageous first steps toward seeking something better in your life. 

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We Believe

At our clinic, we believe in the power of self-discovery and personal growth through individual counselling. While marriage counselling and family therapy are well-known, one-on-one sessions have, until quite recently, had a bit of a stigma attached to them. Now that this mindset is starting to change, the benefits of personal counselling can be truly appreciated by all the people who need them. To that end, our team of skilled and compassionate therapists provides a nurturing space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, ultimately guiding you on a journey towards a brighter and healthier future.

The Meaning

What is the meaning of Individual Counselling?  It is exactly what it sounds like: a profound and transformative form of personalized therapy, where you engage in one-on-one sessions with a qualified therapist. These sessions take place in a safe and confidential environment, allowing you to dive deeper into your inner world, gain new insights, and understand yourself and others better than ever before. With consistent sessions, you’ll learn to address your challenges and develop effective coping strategies, empowering you to create lasting, positive changes in your life. 

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Why Wait?

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Who Benefits from Individual Counselling?

Individual counselling is a valuable resource for anyone facing difficult life challenges or simply seeking personal development. Our therapists have experience in helping people with a wide range of conditions and stressors. If you find yourself struggling with any of the following, individual counselling may be able to help:

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  • Excess stress or stress disorders

  • No feelings of happiness or excitement

  • Insomnia or lack of focus

  • Problems with family or home life

  • Issues at work or in your career

  • Self-doubt and low self-esteem

  • Dealing with a major life event – separation/divorce, illness, disability, grief, trauma

  • Anger and irritability

  • Depression

  • Anxiety (either general disorder or specific)

  • Irrational fears/phobias

  • Strained intimate relationships

  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), or Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  • Burnout

  • Chronic medical and health concerns

  • Pain management

  • Sexual abuse

  • Women's issues

  • Issues related to gender identity, sexual orientation, or self-identity

Why is Individual Therapy Better?

“Better” isn’t quite the right term, but we know what you mean!

 

Individual therapy offers a focused and personalized approach to addressing your unique concerns and challenges. Unlike group sessions, couples counselling or family sessions, which may involve multiple people's needs and dynamics, individual counselling focuses entirely on your well-being and progress. This makes it particularly useful for those seeking support with personal issues, allowing clients to openly discuss their experiences, feelings, and thoughts with a trained professional who is here to help navigate such obstacles and develop effective coping strategies.

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Note that these sessions may overlap with others, too – for example, individual sessions may be part of marriage counselling. We’re here to provide what you need to truly be your best!

What to Expect in Personal Therapy Sessions

Your well-being is our top priority, and we strive to create a comfortable and supportive environment for every personal counselling session. When you step into our space, you can expect an open, honest, and judgment-free conversation with your therapist about your concerns, and a genuine effort on our part to better understand your unique circumstances. We may ask a lot of questions, but that’s what allows us to tailor our treatment, since there are many possible methodologies we can use.

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It’s also likely that your therapist will provide a shortlist of useful resources to support your growth. Beyond the 50-to-60-minute sessions that happen at regular intervals (one to four times per month), we may recommend insightful books, thought-provoking articles, or enlightening videos for you to explore. These can supplement your progress and give context to the strategies we work on together.

What Issues Does Individual Counselling Help With?

The most common issues that inspire people to seek out individual therapy are:
 

  • Anxiety and depression

  • Stress

  • relationship problems

  • self-esteem

  • grief, loss, and trauma

 

Keep in mind that you may not experience any of the above. Therapy can also be beneficial for individuals facing major life changes or a shake in their belief system.  There is no “wrong” reason to seek individual therapy, and almost everyone can benefit from having a neutral and empathetic professional listen to their experiences and provide support in gaining new perspectives.

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How Long Does Individual Therapy Take?

It’s impossible to predict the length of time required for a therapeutic treatment, because it depends on the specific person’s circumstances. You may have a breakthrough after a few sessions, or you may have a road of months or years to slowly unravel a lifetime of challenges. The best we could say is that as long as you are getting value out of it, individual therapy will continue to have a positive impact on your life – and we will work with you to figure out a treatment plan that works best.

Different Types of Individual Therapy

We offer a range of individual therapy types to meet your unique needs. Each one provides valuable insights and tools in its own way to help you overcome challenges and become more introspective. With our therapists to guide you, you’ll be empowered to find the one that resonates best with your journey to healing and well-being.

Our 5 Main Approaches to Personal Therapy

1) Accelerated Resolution Therapy

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is an innovative form of therapy that utilizes rapid eye movements, relaxation, and visualizations to help clients process traumatic memories and alleviate distressing symptoms. By engaging in these techniques, individuals can create new neural pathways that reprocess their experiences, leading to healing and the ability to overcome negative impacts.

2) Narrative Therapy

Narrative therapy revolves around exploring the stories and themes that shape an individual's experiences, enabling the creation of empowered new perspectives and meanings that foster personal growth and empathy. By understanding and reshaping these narratives, individuals can find renewed strength and hope in their lives.

3) Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

This is a widely used therapeutic approach that targets negative thinking patterns and behaviors. Through self-awareness and cognitive restructuring, individuals identify and challenge their unhelpful thoughts, leading to positive changes in emotions and behaviours.

4) 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.

5) 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.

Scheduling an Individual Therapy Session in Calgary

Scheduling your first individual therapy session in Calgary is simple and convenient. We aim to make the process as seamless as possible – here's an outline of how it’s done:

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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 therapy 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 virtual sessions are always secure, confidential, and convenient, but if you aren't a fan of online and would prefer face-to-face interactions, we'll warmly welcome you for your appointment!

  • Why don't Psychologists actively seek reviews?
    For the best answer to this question visit our dedicated page on the matter: https://www.flourishpsychology.ca/why-psychologists-do-not-actively-seek-reviews
  • How much does therapy cost?
    Therapy ranges from 200-300 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
  • 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?"
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • What types of trauma does therapy help with?
    Trauma therapy can help with a variety of experiences, including childhood trauma, PTSD, emotional abuse, physical abuse, accidents, loss, and other distressing events.
  • How do I know if I need trauma therapy?
    Signs you may need trauma therapy include recurring flashbacks, difficulty managing emotions, trouble sleeping, or feeling disconnected from others. A professional can help determine if therapy is right for you.
  • Is trauma therapy effective for PTSD?
    Yes, trauma therapy is highly effective for treating PTSD. Techniques like EMDR and ART are particularly successful in helping individuals process and reduce the intensity of traumatic memories.
  • How long does trauma therapy take?
    The duration of trauma therapy depends on the individual and the complexity of their trauma. Some people may see progress in a few sessions, while others may benefit from ongoing support.
  • Can trauma therapy help with physical symptoms?
    Yes, trauma therapy can address physical symptoms caused by stress, such as headaches, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances, by helping to reduce the underlying emotional distress.
  • How much does EMDR cost in Calgary?
    The cost of EMDR therapy typically ranges from $220 to $250 per 60-minute session, as set by the Psychology Association of Alberta. Many insurance plans, like Blue Cross and Green Shield, cover services by registered therapists, and we offer direct billing for these providers. Check your insurance details to see your coverage. You can find additional details summarized here.
  • What disorder is EMDR most commonly used to treat?
    EMDR is widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating PTSD. It is also used to address anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related conditions.
  • Who is EMDR not appropriate for?
    While EMDR is highly effective for many, it may not be suitable for individuals who are currently experiencing severe dissociation or unstable mental health conditions. Your therapist will assess your readiness for EMDR during the initial consultation.
  • Why is there controversy with EMDR?
    Some skepticism around EMDR stems from misconceptions about its methods. However, decades of research support its efficacy as a trauma-focused therapy.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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-$300 per 50-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.
  • 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!
  • 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.
  • Is marriage counselling free?
    Unfortunately it is not, but the costs are usually covered by insurance. Read more on our blog about benefits.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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!
  • 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.
  • What is Family Counselling and how does it work?
    Family counselling is a form of therapy that aims to help families improve communication, resolve conflicts, and build stronger relationships. It typically involves all members of a family meeting with a trained therapist to discuss their issues and work toward solutions. Family counselling at our offices here in Calgary may include individual sessions as well as joint sessions with the entire family.
  • How can Family Counselling benefit my family?
    Family counselling can benefit your family in several ways. It can help you communicate more effectively, resolve conflicts, and build stronger relationships. Family counselling can also help you learn new coping skills, how to manage stress, and how to deal with difficult emotions. By working with a therapist here in Calgary, your family can develop a deeper understanding of each other and learn how to support each other in a healthy way.
  • What kinds of issues can Family Counselling address?
    Family counselling can address a wide range of issues that affect families here in Calgary, including communication problems, parenting issues, divorce, blended family challenges, sibling rivalry, behavioural problems in children, mental health issues, substance abuse, and domestic violence. A trained family therapist can work with your family to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals.
  • How long does family therapy usually take?
    The length of family counseling varies depending on the specific issues being addressed and the progress made during therapy. Some people's families may see improvement after just a few quick sessions, while others may require several months or even longer to achieve their goals. Your therapist in our Calgary office can work with you to determine a treatment plan that fits your needs and schedule.
  • How do I know if my family even needs counselling?
    If your family is experiencing conflicts, communication problems, or other issues that are affecting your relationships and well-being, family counselling in Calgary may be a helpful option. You may also consider counselling if you are facing a major life transition or dealing with a mental health issue that is affecting your family. If you are unsure whether your family could benefit from counselling, you can speak with a therapist here in southeast Calgary to learn more about the services they offer and how they may be able to help your family.
  • What types of psychological services are available for children and teens?
    Services for children and teens differ widely from that which is offered to adults. Depending on age, play therapy may be appropriate for the youngest children who are still working on finding their voice. Teenagers usually need an extra, kind and supportive listener who is non-judgemental and willing to think”outside the box” with them. Both children and teens are attached to their family systems so it is important that they are seen as connected and treated within their family system.
  • How do I know if my child needs psychological services?
    You know your child best. If you notice that your child is struggling, either with their emotions, behaviour, or relationships, it may be time to reach out to external support. Signs that a child may benefit from therapy include sadness or anxiety that is not better explained by day to day events, difficulty sleeping or eating, frequent tantrums or outbursts, and a rapid decline or acceleration in academic or social functioning.
  • Will my child be able to participate in the therapy process?
    This depends! All therapy is meant to be client-centered, so your therapist will work to be interactive and engaging for children and teens. Therapists use a variety of techniques, such as play therapy and art therapy, to help young clients express themselves and work through their feelings in a safe and supportive environment.
  • How long will my child need to attend therapy?
    The length of therapy varies depending on the individual needs of each individual and their respective family situation. Some children may only need a few sessions to work through a specific issue, while others may benefit from ongoing therapy over a period of several months or even years.
  • How can I support my child's mental health outside of therapy?
    There are several ways that parents can support their child's mental health outside of therapy, including practicing good self-care, encouraging healthy lifestyle habits, fostering positive relationships, and seeking support from other parents or professionals when needed. In fact, the happiest children resist in the homes of the happiest adults, so it is critical that you take care of your own stressors to be able to guide your little through their hard times.
  • How can therapy benefit my child or teenager?
    Therapy can provide valuable support for children and teenagers by helping them develop coping skills, improve communication, manage emotions, and address specific concerns. It offers a safe and non-judgmental space for self-expression and fosters personal growth.
  • How often do therapy sessions typically occur?
    The frequency of therapy sessions depends on the individual needs and goals of your child or teenager. Sessions can range from weekly to bi-weekly or as determined in collaboration with the therapist.
  • Is therapy confidential?
    Yes, therapy is confidential within the limits defined by law. However, therapists may have a duty to report if there are concerns about the safety and well-being of the child or teenager or others.
  • What is the success rate of ART?
    Studies show that ART has a high success rate for reducing PTSD, anxiety, and depression symptoms, often within 1-5 sessions.
  • How many sessions are typically required?
    Many clients experience significant relief in just 1-3 sessions, though some may benefit from additional sessions based on their needs.
  • Is ART effective for children and teens?
    Yes, ART can be adapted for children and adolescents, making it an excellent option for young individuals dealing with trauma or anxiety.
  • How is ART different from EMDR?
    ART allows for intentional image replacement, giving clients more control over how they process and reframe their memories.
  • Are there side effects to Accelerated Resolution Therapy?
    Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is generally well-tolerated, with minimal side effects. Some clients may experience temporary emotional shifts after a session, which usually pass quickly. Others have reported having vivid—but not distressing—dreams within the first 72 hours following treatment.
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