What should I expect in my first therapy session?

In your initial therapy session, anticipate an open dialogue to establish trust. You'll discuss your concerns, goals, and the therapeutic process. Expect the therapist to inquire about your history, emotions, and coping mechanisms. It's a collaborative journey where your unique story takes centre stage, paving the way for personal growth.

Are your counselling services confidential?

Therapy is a confidential and safe space where you can share your deepest thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement. We will respect your privacy and confidentiality and will not share any information about your sessions with anyone without your explicit consent.

Exceptions include:

Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse
If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person
If a client intends to harm themselves
Minors (under 18 yrs.) must be accompanied to their first appointment by a parent to provide informed consent for services and to discuss the limitations of confidentiality for the minor unless they are a mature minor.

Do you offer weekend or evening appointments?

Yes, we do! We strongly believe in providing both evening and weekend session times to enhance accessibility and convenience for our clients.

How long do sessions last?

You have the choice of 60-minute or 90-minute in-person or video sessions.

How many sessions will I need?

There is no one-size-fits-all to this question. Therapy could last anywhere from a few weeks to several months (and sometimes years). Your needed duration will uncover itself through the process of therapy and ongoing progress conversations with your therapist.
We recommend beginning with weekly or bi-weekly sessions to gain the momentum necessary to engage in therapy.

Do psychologists differ from social workers?

Registered social workers and registered psychologists share commonalities in their commitment to promoting mental health and well-being. Both professions are regulated by their respective bodies, the Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW) for social workers and the College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP) for psychologists. Additionally, both social workers and psychologists adhere to rigorous ethical standards to ensure the welfare and confidentiality of their clients. While they may employ different therapeutic approaches, both professions play crucial roles in addressing the diverse mental health needs of individuals and communities.

The One Life team does not have social workers at this time.

Do psychologists/counsellors differ from life coaches?

While the goal of helping their clients remains the same, life coaches and psychologists diverge in their approaches. Psychologists, rooted in clinical expertise, delve into the intricacies of mental health with a foundation in evidence-based therapies. Psychologists are well equipped to navigate deeper mental health concerns, while life coaches focus on personal growth, empowerment, and goal setting.

Are your counsellors licensed and accredited?

Yes, all our Psychologists are registered and licensed through the College of Alberta Psychologists.

What's your stance on the use of medication?

Medication is always a deeply personal decision for each individual. As psychologists, we do not give advice on whether an individual should or should not be on medication. This is a decision we encourage our clients to speak with their doctor and family members about to make the best decision for themselves.
Many of our clients who take medication find therapy to be an integral part of their life experience, improving symptom management and increasing treatment effectiveness.

What's your cancellation policy?

Clients cannot reschedule or cancel appointments online less than 24 hours before the session. Please contact our administrator for assistance: hello@onelifecounsellingcoaching.com or 1-888-540-5791.

Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice or no-show will result in charges:
- First occurrence: 50% of the fee for a 60-minute session, regardless of session duration
- Subsequent occurrences: 100% of the fee for a 60-minute session

If feeling symptomatic but well enough, we can switch an in-person appointment to video.

No fee for late cancellation due to illness or a genuine emergency.

Do you offer group therapy sessions?

Our team is preparing to launch group therapy sessions and psychology related workshops soon. Please express your interest to our intake coordinator to be notified when programs are scheduled.

How do I know if therapy is what I need right now?

Knowing if you are ready for change and open to therapy requires a certain level of self-awareness and introspection. It starts with recognizing that you are experiencing difficulties or dissatisfaction in your life, whether in your relationships, personal growth, or emotional well-being. You may notice patterns of behaviour that are causing distress or a sense of stagnation. This awareness is crucial because it indicates a readiness to explore new possibilities and make meaningful shifts in your life.

Openness to therapy involves a willingness to engage in self-reflection and vulnerability. It means being receptive to the idea that there may be blind spots or unresolved issues that could benefit from professional guidance.

It involves embracing the idea that change is possible and personal growth is an ongoing journey. To know if you are ready for change and open to therapy, reflect on your willingness to engage in self-examination, your ability to be honest with yourself and others, and your readiness to take an active role in your healing and transformation.

When you are open to therapy, you understand that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but rather a courageous step toward personal growth and healing. It involves recognizing that change requires effort and a commitment to self-discovery.

What are some possible outcomes of investing in therapy?

Higher self-confidence
Improved relationships
More self-awareness
Developing a positive mindset
Less sabotaging behaviours
Healing past trauma and wounds
Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression
More meaningful connections
Better sleep
Improved overall well-being
Greater clarity
More motivation
Fulfillment at work
Repairing relationships
Greater capacity for love
Improving intrusive thoughts
Re-inventing yourself
Stress reduction
Increased performance and productivity
Enhanced resilience
Improved decision-making
Processing grief

How long does therapy last?

Therapy is a deeply personal and transformative journey that unfolds at its own pace. The length of therapy varies greatly and depends on the unique needs, circumstances, and goals of each individual or couple. Some people benefit from short-term therapy, where they focus on a specific issue and work toward resolution. Therapy could last anywhere from a few weeks to several months (and sometimes years). There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the duration of therapy, as it is an ongoing conversation between the therapist and the client, adapting and evolving as the person or couple evolves.

Many individuals find that long-term therapy offers the opportunity for profound personal growth and a deeper exploration of their inner selves. It is through this extended engagement that the therapeutic relationship can truly deepen, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of one’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviours.

We recommend clients begin with weekly or bi-weekly sessions to gain the momentum necessary to engage in therapy.

How do I get to your office?

We are located on the third floor of The Varsity Medical Building: 8 Varsity Estates Circle NW, Suite 300, Calgary, AB T3A2Z3.

FREE parking is available in front of the building and requires registering at the kiosk beside the elevator or at our reception desk on the third floor.

Enter the building through the double glass doors on the south side, next to the pharmacy. You have the option of stairs or an elevator to reach us on the third floor. If your session is during the building’s working hours, the main doors will be open, and our office manager will greet you on the third floor.

Important: If you arrive after hours (including weekends), the front doors might be locked, and your therapist will meet you at the double glass doors shortly before your appointment time.

Will my sessions with a Calgary psychologist be covered by my benefit insurance?

Our services are accepted by most private extended health insurance companies. Once you submit your receipt to your insurance provider, reimbursement will be based on your plan’s coverage. If insurance coverage is a key factor for you, we recommend confirming with your provider that the specific therapist you’re interested in is covered.

Additionally, some of our therapists are approved service providers for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), and Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC). Feel free to reach out for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

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