General FAQ
-
1. What is therapy, and how can it help me?
Therapy is a safe, confidential space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and challenges with the support of a trained professional. It can help you gain insight, develop coping skills, and create meaningful changes in your life.
-
2. How do I know if I need therapy?
If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or struggling to manage stress, emotions, or relationships, therapy can help. You don’t need to have a “crisis” to benefit—therapy can be a tool for personal growth and prevention.
-
3. What types of issues do you help with?
The therapists in our collective support clients with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationships, parenting, grief, self-esteem, ADHD, chronic pain, and much more. If you're unsure whether we can help, reach out, and we’ll guide you. You can check out our long list of specialties here (maybe a link?)
-
4. What should I expect during my first session?
Your first session is about getting to know you and creating a safe environment to process life’s challenges. You and your therapist will talk about what’s bringing you to therapy, your goals, and how you can work together.
-
5. What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?
In Alberta, mental health professionals offer a range of expertise to support your unique needs. Here’s a quick guide to understanding their roles:
Registered Psychologist
Registered Psychologists are licensed and regulated professionals under the College of Alberta Psychologists. They have extensive training, including a master’s or doctoral degree, and specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health concerns. Using evidence-based techniques, they provide therapy, assessments (e.g., ADHD or learning disabilities), and consultations to help individuals, couples, and families improve their well-being.Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC)
Recognized by the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), CCCs hold a master’s degree in counselling, psychology, or a related field. They provide support for challenges like anxiety, depression, grief, and relationships. While not provincially regulated, CCCs adhere to high ethical standards, and their services may be covered by some insurance plans. We recommend checking your coverage or advocating for updates with your provider.Master's Registered Clinical Social Worker (RCSW)
RCSWs are clinical counsellors with a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree, regulated by provincial social work bodies. They focus on mental health concerns like trauma, anxiety, and depression, while considering social and environmental factors that impact well-being. Their unique approach blends therapeutic expertise with advocacy, connecting clients to resources and addressing systemic challenges to promote holistic healing.No matter who you work with, you’ll receive compassionate, professional care tailored to your needs.
Practical Information
-
6. How long does therapy typically last?
Each session is about 50 minutes. The duration of therapy depends on your goals—it can range from a few sessions to ongoing support over months or years. Often, trauma processing sessions like EMDR or ART can be up to 90 minutes. This is best discussed with your therapist.
-
7. What are your fees, and do you offer sliding scale rates?
Our fees vary depending on the therapist and type of service. We’re happy to discuss options, including sliding scale rates, to make therapy more accessible. Our goal is to increase access to therapy and decrease stigma. We offer low cost and no cost therapy through our therapy interns - we are happy to connect you and discuss this further if you are interested.
-
8. Do you accept insurance, and how does that work?
Yes, many of our therapists are covered by insurance plans. We recommend checking with your provider to confirm coverage. Payment is made at the time of the session, and we provide receipts for reimbursement.
-
9. Can I book online, or do I need to call?
You can book online through our website or call/email us if you’d like more guidance in finding the right therapist.
-
10. What if I need to cancel or reschedule a session?
We ask for at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or reschedules. Missed appointments or late cancellations may incur a fee.
Specializations and Approaches
-
11. What therapeutic approaches do you use?
Our therapists use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and the Gottman Method, among others.
-
12. Do you specialize in working with certain age groups, identities, or issues?
Yes! We work with individuals, couples, families, teens, and adults. Some therapists specialize in specific areas, such as trauma, ADHD, grief, or relationships.
-
13. Do you offer online or virtual therapy sessions?
Yes, we offer virtual therapy for clients who prefer the convenience or safety of remote sessions.
-
14. Can I request a therapist with specific experience (e.g., trauma, anxiety, relationships)?
Absolutely! Let us know your preferences, and we’ll match you with a therapist who aligns with your needs.
Personal Concerns
-
15. What if I feel nervous or unsure about starting therapy?
It’s completely normal to feel nervous! Starting therapy is a big step, and we’re here to meet you where you are, at your own pace.
-
16. What happens if I don’t click with my therapist?
It’s important to feel comfortable with your therapist. If it’s not the right fit, let us know—we’ll help you find someone better suited to your needs.
-
17. Can I bring a partner or family member to my sessions?
Yes! We offer couples and family therapy. If you’re considering this, discuss it with your therapist to see if it fits your goals.
-
18. Is everything I say in therapy confidential?
Yes, your privacy is protected. There are rare exceptions, such as if someone is at risk of harm, but these will be explained during your first session.
Logistics
-
19. How often will I need to come to therapy?
This depends on your needs and goals. Many people start with weekly sessions, then adjust to biweekly or monthly as progress is made.
-
20. What should I bring or prepare for my sessions?
You don’t need to bring anything, but it can help to think about what you’d like to focus on or any questions you have.
-
21. Are you accepting new clients, and what is your current waitlist time?
Yes, we’re accepting new clients! Wait times vary depending on the therapist, so feel free to contact us to learn more.