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Getting Started

Starting therapy can feel intimidating, especially in communities where seeking help has long been stigmatized. It’s completely normal to feel nervous or unsure about this decision, and we understand the vulnerability and strength it takes to reach out for support. If you have any questions or concerns before committing to a session, we encourage you to contact us through our form—we're here to address any doubts you might have. If you’re unsure which therapist is the best fit for your needs, we’ll assist in finding someone who can support you. And if we aren’t the right match, we’ll help guide you to the resources that are. Therapy is a powerful tool for healing, and we're here to help you break through the stigma and find the right support for you.

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Have more Questions?

We've gathered the most common questions we receive below. If you still have any uncertainties, feel free to reach out—we’re here to assist!


Therapy can be an invaluable tool for those navigating complex emotions, cultural expectations, or personal challenges that have built up over time. It offers a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, making sense of experiences that may feel overwhelming or confusing. Whether you're grappling with identity, the pressures of balancing multiple cultures, or struggling with the weight of past trauma, therapy can help you untangle these layers and develop a deeper understanding of yourself. Through therapy, you can gain powerful insights into your behaviors and thought patterns, helping you break free from cycles of stress, anxiety, or doubt.

It also provides a space to rebuild self-worth and foster resilience, especially when past experiences or societal pressures have left you feeling disconnected or uncertain. Therapy empowers you with practical tools to cope with daily stresses, improve communication skills, and heal from the pain of broken relationships or lost faith. The work you do in therapy not only helps you process past hurts but also gives you the strength to create a more fulfilling future, grounded in self-compassion, confidence, and a deeper connection to who you truly are. Ultimately, therapy is a partnership that supports your growth, giving you the guidance and clarity needed to move forward with purpose and strength.

Therapy is a safe, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, with each session personalized to meet your unique needs—whether you’re seeking help as an individual, couple, or family. In your first session, you'll have the chance to connect with your therapist, share what brought you to therapy, and together, set goals that will guide your journey.

Sessions are typically 50 minutes long and can be scheduled weekly or biweekly, based on what feels right for you. As you make progress and experience growth, the frequency of sessions may naturally decrease. You may also be invited to try out some gentle activities between sessions, like journaling or mindfulness, to help you deepen the work you’re doing. Remember, therapy is a partnership, and being actively engaged both in and outside of sessions will make your experience even more rewarding. We’re here to support you every step of the way!

Yes, therapy is confidential. What you share with your therapist is private, and they are dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for you. However, there are a few exceptions:

  • If there is a risk of harm to yourself or others.
  • If there is suspect child/elder/dependent abuse.
  • If there is a court order requiring the release of information.

If you’re new to therapy, it’s completely normal to have questions about confidentiality. Don’t hesitate to ask your therapist for more information to help you feel comfortable and supported.

A 15-minute consultation call with a therapist is a relaxed, no-pressure opportunity for you to explore how therapy might be helpful. It’s a chance to share what you're hoping to discuss in future sessions, ask any questions about the therapist’s approach, and see if you feel comfortable moving forward. This call is completely complimentary and gives you a chance to get to know your therapist, with no commitment required. We’re here to make sure you feel supported and confident as you take this step towards caring for your mental health—just like you would for any other aspect of well-being.

Book

We have a 24-hour cancellation policy. For any missed or late cancellations, a moderated fee will be charged to your credit card to compensate the time of the counsellor.

$180-220 / 50 minutes

We also offer a sliding scale - Sliding scale services offer a reduced rate from our standard hourly fee, and are available on a case-by-case basis. These fee reductions are designed to support individuals with limited income or who don't have access to benefits for psychological services.

We don’t offer direct billing, but we issue receipts that you can submit on your own.

Depending on your plan, the following insurance companies will cover counselling sessions with a Canadian Certified Counselor: 

  • Blue Cross
  • Equitable Life
  • Green Shield
  • Sun Life
  • Manulife
  • Medevie

In Alberta, a Registered Psychologist is a regulated professional with a doctoral or master's degree in psychology, licensed to diagnose mental health conditions and administer psychological tests. 

A Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) holds a master's degree in counselling, is certified by the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, and provides therapy but does not have the authority to formally diagnose or conduct psychological assessments.

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Connect with me

 BOOK IN AIRDRIE

BOOK IN CALGARY

andrea@alccounselling.ca
 Psychology Today ALC
587-601-2256

Mondays & Wed: 9am-6pm
Tuesday & Thursday: 8am-7pm
Friday & Sat: 9am-2pm

We acknowledge that we live, work and play within Kanata (Canada). We recognize the First Nations, Metis and Inuit people of Canada, the impacts of colonization and the lives, ceremonies, languages, and teachings lost. We work in the spirit of healing and reconciliation to honour those we have lost, those with us, and those yet to come. We are grateful for the traditional Knowledge Keepers and Elders who are still with us today and those who have gone before us. We make this acknowledgement as an act of reconciliation and gratitude to those whose territory we reside on or are visiting.