Frequently Asked Questions
What services do you offer?
I currently offer in-person and online (virtual) therapeutic treatment sessions for individual teens (14+) and adults in Calgary, Alberta. Therapy with me is trauma informed, relational, and guided by evidence-based psychological treatment modalities.
Are therapy sessions covered by insurance?
Yes, most extended health benefits and employee assistance plans cover psychological treatment services provided by Registered Psychologists.
Psychological services may also be claimed on your income tax return as an eligible medical expense if you are paying any out of pocket fees not covered by extended health plans.
Therapy is a unique journey for each individual and the amount of sessions required to meet your therapeutic goals may vary. Typically, it takes anywhere from 3 to 6 sessions to experience positive growth as we work on understanding your concerns, setting goals, and developing skills, tools, and resources to overcome your challenges.
During the beginning stages of therapy, we may meet more often to address any significant, observable challenges in functioning. Then, we may move to less frequent sessions as you start to develop resources and skills to navigate future obstacles with confidence and resilience.
How many sessions are typically required, and how often do I attend sessions?
Do you offer emergency or crisis counselling sessions?
I am not able to provide emergency crisis counselling sessions.
If you or someone you know are experiencing a crisis situation and need to speak with a support person immediately, please contact the Distress Centre Calgary at (403) 266-4357 or call 988 for the Canada-wide mental health and suicide crisis support helpline.
If you are experiencing immediate risk requiring urgent mental health care, call 911 or go to your nearest hospital emergency department.
If you are an existing client and experiencing a crisis, you are encouraged to reach out. I can offer crisis-focused support within the context of a scheduled session during regular business hours. I will do my best to offer the earliest available appointment and support you in navigating the situation together.
Is parking free at your office?
Yes, there is ample free two-hour street parking available in the surrounding area. The office is also easily accessible by Calgary Transit and is centrally located in the Bridgeland neighbourhood. We serve clients from nearby communities including East Village, Inglewood, Renfrew, Crescent Heights, and other areas across Calgary.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Yes. Therapy is confidential, and protecting your privacy is a core ethical responsibility. What you share in session is not disclosed without your consent.
However, there are some legal and ethical exceptions to confidentiality, such as situations involving risk of serious harm to yourself or others, or as required by law. These limits are discussed clearly at the beginning of therapy so you understand how your information is protected.
If you ever have questions about confidentiality, please share these with me. Transparency is part of creating a safe and trusting therapeutic space.
What is the difference between a Psychologist, counsellor, and therapist?
In Alberta, a Registered Psychologist is a regulated health professional with graduate-level training in psychology who is qualified to provide therapy, psychological assessment, and diagnosis when appropriate. Psychologists are registered with the College of Alberta Psychologists and must complete extensive specialized training, including over 1,600 hours of supervised practice, formal education in ethics, and successful completion of national licensing exams, including the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
I am a fully Registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists (#7174).
The term counsellor can refer to professionals with varying levels of training and regulation. Some counsellors can be registered and provide psychotherapy, while others may offer supportive or coaching-based services. Training requirements and insurance coverage can differ.
Therapist is a broad, non-regulated term that describes the type of work someone does. Psychologists and counsellors can both be therapists, but not everyone using the title is a regulated mental health professional.
This is my first time in therapy, what should I expect?
Starting therapy for the first time can feel uncertain and uncomfortable. That’s completely okay and expected. You do not need to know what to say or have your thoughts organized before you arrive. Sessions are a collaborative conversation, guided at a pace that feels manageable and respectful of your comfort.
Early sessions often focus on getting to know you, such as what brings you in, what you’re hoping for, and what has shaped your experiences so far. We will also talk through practical details like confidentiality, boundaries, and how therapy works, so there are no surprises.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
You do not need to be in crisis, have a clear diagnosis, or be referred by your family doctor to begin therapy. Many people come to therapy because something feels heavy, stuck, or misaligned, even if they cannot fully articulate why.
Therapy may be a good fit if you are seeking a space to reflect, better understand patterns in your life, navigate change, or relate to yourself and others differently. Curiosity, not certainty, is often enough to begin.
An initial session can also be a way to explore fit and ask questions, rather than a commitment to a long-term process.