See real benefit from the comprehensive psychological support services offered by our trained professionals.
We offer a range of services designed to help our clients take control of their thoughts and feelings, and learn skills that empower them to move in a bright direction towards optimal mental health and wellbeing.
We pride ourselves on teaching and instilling in our clients tools and strategies that they can use life-long to find the joy in each and every day.
An assessment is an in-depth evaluation of how a person thinks, feels, and takes in information.
They help us understand how a person is currently functioning and can assist with predicting future behaviours. Through an individualized battery of assessment instruments, we will help you to better understand your learning or mental heath profile.
An assessment can be viewed as a comprehensive roadmap to treatment. It’s a first step to understanding the tools and strategies that will help you overcome your challenges to move in a bright direction.
Treatment is an integrative process that involves helping you learn and apply the tools to be in charge of your thoughts and emotions.
We use evidence-based interventions in treatment and management of anxiety, depression, ADHD and executive functioning impairments, autism spectrum disorder, social difficulties, parent-child relationship, and sleep disturbances.
Our treatment sessions focus on a skill-based model where we teach you to understand your challenges and the tools needed to master them. While we can’t promise that you’ll never have challenges again, we can equip you with the tools and understanding needed to effectively deal with them when they arise.
During the recent pandemic, a strong need emerged for people to access support for their emotional and mental health needs remotely rather than in person. Thankfully those times are now behind us, but the option for virtual support remains helpful in a wide range of circumstances.
For treatment, we offer telepsychology sessions in a secure, virtual setting that can easily be accessed via your computer or mobile device. Telepsychology offers a unique, location-flexible approach to treatment sessions that allows us to focus on and address nearly everything we would during an in-person session.
For assessment, initial intake and feedback meetings can be completed effectively in a virtual format, but some assessment activities will require in-person appointments.
Day-to-day life for individuals with ADHD and Executive Functioning Challenges can be marked by a range of difficulties. Managing daily routines and responsibilities may be more challenging, leading to feelings of frustration and being overwhelmed. In academic settings, tasks that require sustained attention and organization, such as studying or following instructions, may be particularly challenging. Work environments may present difficulties in meeting deadlines or maintaining focus on tasks. Interpersonal relationships can also be affected, as impulsivity or disorganization may impact communication and social interactions.
We play a key role supporting clients through both through assessment and counselling for ADHD and Executive Functioning Challenges to develop practical strategies to navigate their daily lives, and learn skills to improve organization, time management and decision-making. By helping individuals build self-regulation and coping mechanisms while also learning to identify and reframe negative thought patterns and behaviors, our psychologists empower their clients to thrive in academic, professional, and personal spheres.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social communication and behavior. It encompasses a wide range of presentations, from challenges in social interaction and communication to specific patterns of interests and repetitive behaviors. Each individual with ASD has a unique profile, and early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for maximizing their potential. Understanding and supporting individuals with ASD is essential for fostering their well-being and facilitating their integration into various aspects of society.
Day-to-day life for individuals with ASD can present a variety of challenges. Difficulties in understanding and reciprocating social cues may lead to feelings of isolation or misunderstandings. Sensory sensitivities can become overwhelming, impacting comfort in various environments. Routine changes may be particularly distressing, and individuals may exhibit repetitive behaviors as a way to cope. Communication challenges, ranging from nonverbal communication to understanding abstract language, can create barriers in relationships, education and work.
Not only is our team trained in ‘gold standard’ ASD assessment, we also have extensive background and experience in treatment with early intervention strategies and social skills development. Our psychologists can help individuals with ASD identify and manage anxieties or phobias related to social situations, address challenges in emotional regulation, and develop coping strategies for sensory sensitivities. We can also aid with building skills related to perspective-taking and understanding the social nuances more intuitive to neurotypical individuals. With our support, clients with ASD can navigate a more fulfilling experience in the social world, and experience greater independence and well-being.
Anxiety, while a common and natural response to stress, has become an increasingly common challenge in our modern world for people of all ages. Though the experience of anxiety does not always indicate a greater challenge and is part of the normal human experience, anxiety that leads to avoidance, panic and impairs one’s ability to think and act with logic can become chronic and interfere with daily life. There are many different forms of anxiety, including generalized, social, performance, separation, specific phobias, perfectionism, as well as obsessive compulsive tendencies.
Living with anxiety can become a formidable challenge. Simple tasks may provoke a sense of dread or avoidance. Social interactions may become daunting, leading to isolation. Academic or occupational performance may suffer due to persistent worry or racing thoughts. Physical symptoms such as muscle tension or insomnia may exacerbate the emotional distress. Relationships may also experience strain, as communication and intimacy may be hindered by anxiety-related concerns. Ultimately, untreated anxiety can impede one's overall quality of life.
Our team supports anxiety concerns through both assessment and counselling. We apply cognitive behavioural therapy techniques to help individuals experiencing anxiety understand how to be mindful of, identify, challenge, and face their anxious thoughts. Through practical exercises and exposure techniques, they can gradually confront and desensitize themselves to feared situations and cultivate a more balanced and adaptive response to stressors. Our psychologists also equip their clients with coping strategies such as relaxation and self-soothing techniques, ultimately empowering them to control their anxiety rather than let it control them.
Depression is a complex mental health concern that reaches far beyond fleeting feelings of sadness. It manifests as a pervasive sense of hopelessness or helplessness, affecting one's thoughts, emotions, and daily functioning. Symptoms may include profound fatigue, changes in appetite, and a loss of interest or pleasure in once-enjoyed activities. Depression can emerge from various sources, including life transitions, trauma, or biological factors. It casts a shadow over one's ability to engage with the world and hinders the capacity to experience joy and fulfillment.
Day-to-day life for individuals grappling with depression can be marked by a multitude of challenges. Mundane tasks may feel like insurmountable mountains, leading to a sense of overwhelm and inertia. Social interactions may become strained, as energy levels wane and interest in connecting with others diminishes. Concentration and decision-making abilities may be compromised, impacting productivity with academic pursuits or at work. Sleep disturbances can further exacerbate feelings of fatigue and emotional fragility, creating a cycle that deepens the experience of depression.
Our psychologists use proven and effective cognitive behavioral techniques to help individuals combating depression identify cognitive distortion and learn to reframe negative thought patterns that contribute to their depressive feelings. Practical coping mechanisms are taught to manage overwhelming emotions and develop strategies to increase pleasurable and fulfilling activities. We work to empower individuals to set and work towards meaningful goals, fostering a sense of accomplishment and agency, and embark on a journey towards greater self-compassion, resilience, and a brighter outlook on life.
Learning abilities encompass the diverse range of cognitive processes that enable individuals to acquire and process information. These abilities are the foundation of academic achievement, career success, and personal growth. It’s not uncommon for individuals to experience difficulties in their reading, writing or math skills during their education. However, for some individuals, challenges in learning can create barriers to reaching their full potential. Understanding and addressing these unique learning profiles is essential for fostering confidence and unlocking individual potential.
Many who experience learning disabilities have average to above-average intellectual abilities, yet display significant impairment in one or more academic areas, with tasks like reading comprehension, organizational skills, or information retention feeling overwhelming. Self-esteem and motivation may be affected, especially if repeated struggles lead to a sense of frustration or negative self-image. Social interactions may also be impacted, as individuals grapple with feelings of being different or less capable than their peers. These challenges can extend beyond the classroom, influencing daily routines and activities.
We are skilled in comprehensive psychoeducational assessments to identify the presence of any specific learning disabilities. If any are diagnosed, we can develop an action plan for remedying them and provide support during the process, with practical strategies to enhance focus, organization and study skills, both at home and in the school setting. In addition to helping build resilience and self-advocacy skills, our psychologists empower their clients to harness their strengths, overcome challenges, and embrace their unique learning profiles, ultimately fostering a greater sense of confidence and achievement.
Giftedness is defined by intelligence scores in the top five percent of the general population, and represents a unique cognitive profile characterized by exceptional intellectual abilities, creativity, and potential for high achievement. Individuals classified as gifted often exhibit advanced cognitive processes, sophisticated language and reading skills, and an insatiable curiosity for learning. However, with these remarkable abilities come distinctive emotional and social needs that require careful attention and support. Recognizing and nurturing giftedness is essential for helping individuals maximize their potential and navigate the complexities of their unique cognitive landscape.
Life for gifted individuals is not without challenges. Educational settings may not always provide the level of intellectual stimulation and depth of content that matches their capabilities, leading to disengagement or feelings of boredom. Social interactions may present difficulties, as gifted individuals may experience a sense of otherness or struggle to find like-minded peers. The intensity of their intellectual pursuits can also sometimes lead to heightened sensitivity or perfectionism, which may impact their emotional well-being and self-esteem.
Our team has extensive experience in intellectual assessments to identify gifted learners along with their unique strengths and potential, and can advise on steps you can take to ensure their educational needs are met. Children who are gifted are often eligible for specialty education programs, which help ensure that the unique needs of gifted learners are met. Our team is knowledgeable with the local services and programs to support gifted students, and can help you navigate the options.
Life transitions such as shifts in career, relationships and personal identity are an evolution of one’s individual journey through life. These periods of change, while often anticipated, can stir a complex blend of emotions. Whether embarking on a new chapter or navigating the aftermath of a major shift, one may find themselves grappling with a range of feelings, from excitement and hope to uncertainty and anxiety. The process of adapting to change requires a unique set of coping skills and a safe space to explore the challenges that accompany transformation.
During significant life transitions, familiar routines that once provided comfort may no longer apply, leading to a sense of disorientation and instability. Decision-making can become overwhelming as individuals confront choices that shape their future. Relationships may undergo shifts, requiring open communication and negotiation. Emotional well-being may be impacted, with feelings of vulnerability, self-doubt, or even grief for the past. Navigating this can be a solitary endeavor, and the need for support and guidance is paramount.
Our psychologists equip individuals with practical tools to manage the emotional turbulence that often accompanies change. By identifying and reframing thought patterns and behaviors within a collaborative and empathetic therapeutic relationship, clients can develop resilience and adaptive coping strategies. Through fostering a proactive approach, our team empowers individuals to set and work towards meaningful goals, embrace change as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery, and ultimately facilitate a smoother transition into a fulfilling new chapter of life.
Self-exploration is a profound and transformative journey towards understanding one's inner world, aspirations, and unique potential. It involves a deliberate process of introspection, allowing individuals to connect with their emotions, values, and core beliefs. This endeavor is often triggered by a desire for personal growth, a quest for identity, or a need to navigate life's challenges with authenticity and purpose. Self-exploration is a vital stepping stone toward fostering a deeper sense of self-awareness and living a more fulfilling, intentional life.
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, the pursuit of self-exploration can be overshadowed by external demands and distractions. Individuals may grapple with a sense of disconnection from their true selves, leading to feelings of dissatisfaction or a lack of direction. The pressures of societal expectations and responsibilities can make it challenging to prioritize one's own needs and desires. Moreover, unresolved emotional issues or past traumas may hinder the process of self-discovery, creating roadblocks on the path towards a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Our psychologists have the training and experience to serve as a valuable guide in the journey of self-exploration, equipping clients with practical tools to navigate the complexities of their inner world. By identifying and challenging limiting beliefs and negative thought patterns, they help one foster a more empowering self-narrative and align their actions with their authentic selves, leading to a deeper sense of fulfillment and purpose. This support enables individuals embark on a transformative journey towards self-discovery, unlocking their true potential and creating a life that resonates with their core values and aspirations.
Stress is ubiquitous in our modern lives, arising from the demands and pressures we encounter daily. It manifests as a physiological and emotional response to situations that tax our coping mechanisms, and stems from various sources such as school, work, relationships, or life events. While some level of stress is normal and even healthy, its impact can permeate every aspect of our well-being with persistent or overwhelming stress leading to a range of physical and psychological challenges.
Experiencing heightened or chronic stress can have profound effects on day-to-day functioning. Individuals may find it increasingly difficult to focus or make decisions, leading to a decline in productivity. Sleep disturbances and fatigue can be a common result, further worsening the cycle of stress. Relationships may become strained as communication suffers under the weight of emotional turmoil. Prolonged exposure to stress can even contribute to the development of anxiety and mood disorders, impacting overall quality of life.
Our psychologists offer a targeted approach to help clients manage and mitigate stress, teaching practical strategies to identify and reframe negative thought patterns that contribute to heightened stress levels. They work with individuals to develop adaptive coping mechanisms that promote a sense of control and resilience in the face of challenges, along with relaxation techniques and stress-reducing exercises that empower them to proactively address and mitigate the impact of stress in their lives. With this support, one can cultivate a healthier relationship with stress, a greater well-being, and a more balanced approach to life's demands.
A referral from your family doctor is not required. You can make an appointment by reaching out to us anytime. It is not uncommon for other professionals (i.e. educators, doctors) who work with your child/teen to recommend that they see a psychologist.
To make an appointment, you can submit your request online through our website, email or call our office. We will be happy to discuss your unique needs, determine which of our psychologists is the best fit to work with you, and schedule you an appointment for our first available opening.
Counselling/treatment sessions are scheduled in one-hour appointments, while psychological assessment sessions are typically scheduled over a few two-hour periods.
For the first appointment, we typically recommend a joint session with your child/teen. This will help us determine the presenting concerns and assist to establish an effective treatment plan. At that meeting we will discuss the progression of future sessions including the level of support required from parents. For younger children, parents often attend part of each session with the child, whereas teenagers may wish the have the entire session for themselves independently. We advise that parents remain available during sessions as needed to discuss how things are progressing and any new developments.
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of psychological services. We understand that for people to feel confident and free to discuss their private information, they need a place to talk without fear of the information leaving the room. When you come to your first session, your psychologist will go over the parameters of confidentiality and explain to you how your information will be kept private and confidential.
Yes! Our clinic is LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safespace. We work with many clients who identify as LGBTQ+ and/or transgender.
We do not provide emergency mental health care services, but there is always help available:
If you or your family member are experiencing a mental health crisis and need to speak to someone immediately, for 24-hour assistance please contact the Distress Centre Calgary at 403-266-4357 (HELP), or the Alberta-wide Mental Health Helpline at 1-877-303-2642.
If you feel you may be a danger to yourself or others or it’s an emergency, please call 911 or go to your nearest urgent care centre or hospital emergency room.
Our friendly and welcoming clinic is conveniently located in Britannia Crossing at 490, 5119 Elbow Drive SW. Our clinic is fully wheelchair accessible.
Underground Parking
Our building has ample 60-minute free underground parking for our clients. The parkade can be accessed via the alley west of our building off of 50th Ave. Simply park in one of the stalls with an orange visitor sign and register your licence plate using the QR codes for Indigo Parking. If your visit will be longer than one hour, ensure that you purchase adequate additional time for the duration of your stay to avoid getting ticketed.
Surface Parking
Additional surface parking is available in the parking lot across the road on the north side of 50th Ave (by Sunterra) for over-height vehicles or in the rare event the underground parkade is full. Simply park in the stalls designated for visitor parking, register your licence plate as directed and pay for parking if applicable. There is also some free and paid on-street parking in the area around our building.
Unfortunately, psychological services are not currently covered under Alberta Health Care unless you seek help at a hospital or urgent care facility.
Most extended health benefit or employee assistance plans will cover all or a portion of the fees for private psychological services.
Fees for psychological services may also be claimed as a tax deductible health care expense on your income tax return.
Our rate is $240 per 60-minute hour, which is consistent with many other quality providers of psychological services within the city. Be careful when comparing rates, as many psychologists operate on a 50-minute ‘hour’. Most or all of this fee may be reimbursable by your extended benefit provider.
We accept debit, major credit cards (Mastercard, Visa, American Express), personal cheques, and interac e-transfers as payment for our services. We do not accept cash.
We are able to direct bill or submit claims for reimbursement on behalf of our clients through the following insurers:
If your insurer is included in the eligibility list above, simply let our team know prior to your session so we can send you an online form to complete with your policy information. Once this is provided, we can prepare and submit the claim on your behalf. Note that once sessions have been billed, we are no longer able to submit the claim for you. Also note we are unable to coordinate multiple benefit plans on your behalf.
We are often asked if we can direct bill to SunLife or Manulife, both of which are commonly used providers. Unfortunately, neither insurer currently permits direct billing for psychological services from any provider.
For those and other insurance companies that we are not able to direct bill or submit claims for reimbursement on your behalf, we can provide receipts that include our psychologists’ licence numbers for you to submit for reimbursement yourself.
In the event that you feel unwell or are experiencing cold/flu and/or COVID-19 related symptoms, please let us know as soon as possible and do not come into our clinic. We would be happy to hold your session virtually instead of in person if possible, or reschedule your appointment.
To help prevent the spread of illness such as COVID-19, we maintain a range of measures at our clinic to protect the safety of our clients and staff.
When arriving for your appointment, please wait in your vehicle or outside the clinic until five minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time. This helps us minimize the number of people in close contact within our office.
Please sanitize your hands upon arrival in our clinic and regularly as needed during your visit using the hand sanitizer pump bottles located at reception and throughout the clinic.
The decision on use of face masks in our clinic is at the individual discretion of our clients and staff. Clients are welcome to attend appointments without wearing face masks if they are comfortable doing so. However, if you are more comfortable continuing to wear a face mask during your session, our psychologists are happy to wear a face mask as well during their time with you. Simply let your psychologist know your preference at the start of your session.
As an enhanced precaution for the health and safety of our clients and staff, our clinic is equipped with air purification systems that use True HEPA filtration (removes 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns) and UV-C technology (kills up to 99.9% of viruses and bacteria).