Frequently Asked Questions

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See below for answers to some of our most frequently asked questions and find out what you can expect as an Actualize client.

I want to book an appointment. How do I book?

Contact Actualize to set up a 15 minute phone consultation.

Actualize offers free phone consultations to help you decide if we’re the right fit for you and your goals. In the case that Actualize is unable to meet your needs, you will be directed to other professionals in Edmonton and surrounding area that may be a better fit.

How do I know that I need counselling?

Individuals are the best experts in their own experience and everyone’s experience is different. If you’ve been thinking about making a change for a while or have tried making a change without the success you desire, speaking with a psychologist may be beneficial to you.

Will I like counselling? What if I don’t like it?

Counselling is very much about psychologist-client “fit”. Psychologists are people too and each has their own personality, worldview, and theoretical orientation; all these factors can influence your experience of counselling. At Actualize we believe that success in meeting your goals is largely dependent on finding the right person.                     

At Actualize, Dr. McCoy tends to work best with those who:

• Have goals about what they want to achieve with the help of counselling
• Willing to honestly reflect and discuss personal thoughts, emotions, and behaviours
• Willing to try new things and practice new skills

How much does it cost?

Please see our Rates page.

Private psychological services are not covered by Alberta Health Services; however, clients may offset the cost of therapy through employee benefits. At the end of each appointment, clients are issued a receipt for psychological counselling services that may be used to obtain reimbursement from employee benefits or insurance company.

How do I make payment?

Full payment is processed at the beginning of each appointment prior to conducting any therapeutic conversation.

Payment can be made via e-transfer, credit card, debit, cheque, or cash.

Missed appointments or cancellations made with less than 24-hour notice will be charged at the full rate. In all cases, a credit card number is collected before the first appointment and will be charged in the event that a client misses an appointment with less than 24-hour notice.

What if I miss an appointment?

Please provide as much notice as possible notice if you cannot make an appointment. This way another deserving client can use the time to reach their goals.

Missed appointments or cancellations made with less than 24-hour notice will be charged at the full rate. A credit card number is collected before the first appointment and will be charged in circumstances where a client misses an appointment with less than 24-hour notice.

How long is an average appointment?

Typical therapy appointments are 50 minutes. However, some individuals prefer longer appointments and some treatment modalities are better suited to 80 minute sessions. During your Initial Assessment (first appointment), Actualize will work with you to determine the session lengths that will work best for you.

Do I need a referral to seek service at Actualize?

No, you do not require a referral for private psychological services in Alberta.

How many appointments will I come for?

Again, everyone is different. The number of appointments will vary depending on the nature of your concerns, your goals, and your needs. Some individuals notice positive changes within the first few appointments. Others prefer to seek counselling over the course of months or years. Some individuals that have been struggling with chronic concerns may require more appointments to achieve their desired goals. During your first appointment, goals and timelines will be discussed so that an individualized plan can be co-constructed.

How often should I come to therapy?

Generally individuals begin with weekly or bi-weekly appointments. Sometimes appointments become less frequent across time when individuals feel confident in practicing skills or behaviours independently. Some clients may continue to use therapy more sporadically for ongoing check-ins and booster sessions after initial goals have been met.

Is the information I share kept confidential?

Actualize adheres to the standards of practice as outlined by the College of Alberta Psychologists. As such, there are strict guidelines about confidentiality and limits to confidentiality. This information will be explained during your initial assessment (first appointment).