Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

How do I book an appointment?

The easiest way is to book directly through the online booking system. You’ll be able to see my current availability and choose a time that works for you.

If you’re unsure where to start, you’re also welcome to reach out with questions before booking.

Do you offer a free consultation?

Yes. Many people find it helpful to begin with a brief consultation to see whether we might be a good fit.

This is simply a chance to talk about what’s going on and ask any questions you may have about the process.

Do I need a referral?

No referral is required to book an appointment.

Sessions & Fit

What happens in the first session?

The first session is a chance for us to get a sense of each other.

We’ll talk about what brought you in, what’s been weighing on you, and what you hope might be different in your life. You don’t need to have everything figured out before you come in. Part of the work is making sense of things together.

How often will we meet?

Some people come weekly for a period of time, while others prefer to meet every few weeks. We’ll figure out a rhythm that fits both your needs and your life.

What if I’m not sure therapy is for me?

That’s actually very common.

Many of the people who find their way to my office are reflective, capable people who aren’t sure whether therapy will really help. You don’t need to arrive convinced. Curiosity is enough.

What if I’ve had a bad experience with therapy before?

That happens more often than people expect.

Different therapists work in different ways. If something didn’t feel helpful in the past, we can talk about what that experience was like and what you’re hoping might be different this time.

Practical Details

Where are you located?

My office is currently located in Calgary at AVA Psychology Group.

There is parking available nearby, and the office is also accessible by Calgary Transit.

Beginning May 1, 2026, my office will relocate to:

600 Crowfoot Crescent NW, Suite 340
Crowfoot Centre
Calgary, AB T3G 0B4

There is free two-hour parking available out front, as well as paid parking across the street if the lot is full. Please allow yourself a few extra minutes before your appointment to find parking and make your way to the office.

When you arrive, you can text me at 403-991-9465 or check in with the admin team, and I will come meet you.

Do you offer virtual sessions?

Yes. I offer both in-person and secure online sessions.

Some people prefer the convenience of virtual therapy, while others find in-person conversations more helpful. Either option is available.

Insurance & Fees

What are your fees?

Session fees are:

50 minutes – $220
75 minutes – $330

These rates are below the recommended fee schedule for psychologists in Alberta.

Do you direct bill insurance?

Direct billing is available for some insurance providers.

If you’re unsure whether your plan covers services with a psychologist, I recommend checking with your insurance provider before your first appointment.

Policies

What is your cancellation policy?

If you need to cancel or reschedule, I ask for at least 24 hours notice.

Late cancellations or missed appointments may be charged the full session fee.

Youth & Families

Do you work with teens?

Yes. I work with adolescents 12 and older.

Some teens come to therapy because they are feeling overwhelmed, struggling with anxiety or identity questions, or dealing with difficult family situations. Others may be engaging in risk-taking behaviours or feeling stuck in patterns that aren’t working for them.

I also support the parents of teens. Adolescence can be a confusing and sometimes painful stage for both young people and the adults who care about them. When teens feel seen, known, and loved by the important people in their lives, it creates the sense of safety and security they need to grow and thrive. Part of this work may include helping parents strengthen their relationship with their teen and better understand what their child is going through.

It’s common for teens to feel unsure about therapy at first. Part of my role is helping them feel comfortable enough to talk at their own pace.

When helpful, I also work as part of a broader care team, collaborating with parents, schools, physicians, and other supports so that teens feel understood and supported across the different parts of their lives.

Do you work with parents navigating separation or co-parenting?

Yes. I frequently work with parents navigating separation, divorce, co-parenting challenges, and blended family dynamics.

These situations can be emotionally complex, especially when conflict between parents is high. Therapy can provide a space to sort through those challenges and focus on what matters most moving forward.

Do you work with people dealing with complex or high-pressure situations?

Yes.

Many of the people who find their way to my office are navigating complicated circumstances including demanding careers, high levels of responsibility, family conflict, legal involvement, or major life transitions.

These situations often come with a lot of pressure and very little space to think things through. Therapy can provide a place to slow down, make sense of what’s happening, and decide how you want to move forward.

Confidentiality & Safety

Is therapy confidential?

Yes. What we talk about in therapy is confidential, with a few legal exceptions.

These exceptions include situations where there is risk of serious harm to yourself or someone else, concerns about the safety of a child, or when records are required by law or court order. If any of these situations arise, we would talk about them openly.

What if I’m in crisis?

If you are in immediate danger or need urgent support, please contact 911, go to your nearest emergency department, or contact Distress Centre Calgary at 403-266-4357.

Therapy sessions are not designed to provide emergency support, but they can be an important part of ongoing care and stability.