What to Expect from Counselling at The Mental Health Clinic
Starting counselling can feel like a big step and it’s normal to wonder what the process will look like. At The Mental Health Clinic Alberta, we make getting started simple, supportive, and stress-free. Here’s what you can expect when you begin your journey with us:
Getting Started is Simple
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Step 1: Book Your Appointment
You can book an appointment online by clicking the orange button below or at the bottom most pages. Select your preferred therapist, choose the counselling format (video counselling or telephone counselling), and pick a date and time that works for you. You can also give us a call, and we’ll be happy to book your session for you.
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Step 2: Create a Private Account
Once your session is booked, you’ll receive an email to set up a secure account on our platform. From there, you can manage your appointments, access important documents, and easily book follow-ups all in one private space.
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Step 3: Complete Your Intake Forms
You’ll receive an email with intake forms to complete before your first session. These forms help your therapist understand your concerns and goals so they can tailor support to your needs. Forms can be completed through the link in your email or directly in your account once it’s set up.
Please complete these before your first appointment to make the most of your session.
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Step 4: Prepare for Your Session
Video Counselling: Log into your account, open your scheduled appointment, and click the video icon to start. We recommend logging in 10 minutes early to check your audio and video settings.
Telephone Counselling: Your counsellor will call you directly at your scheduled time. Just have your phone ready in a quiet space where you feel comfortable.
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Step 5: Begin Your Journey of Growth
Most sessions last about 50 minutes. Your first session is focused on getting to know you, exploring your concerns, and understanding your goals for therapy. Together, you and your therapist will begin shaping a treatment plan that reflects your needs and priorities.
Our therapists are trained in a range of evidence-based therapies, including:
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Learn how to step back from unhelpful thoughts, stay present, and move toward a life aligned with your values.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Gain practical tools to challenge unhelpful thinking patterns, reduce anxiety and depression, and build healthier coping skills.
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): Strengthen your ability to manage big emotions, handle stress more calmly, and improve relationships with the people who matter most.
Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT): Understand and transform difficult emotions, helping you feel more balanced and connected in your daily life.
Gottman Method Couples Therapy: Strengthen your relationship by improving communication, rebuilding trust, and deepening emotional connection.
Internal Family Systems (IFS): Learn to work with different “parts” of yourself, heal inner wounds, and build greater self-understanding and compassion.
Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT): Builds on your strengths and what’s already working, identify small realistic solutions helping you take small, practical steps toward your goals.
Motivational Interviewing (MI): A supportive approach that strengthens your motivation, builds confidence, and helps you make lasting changes at your own pace.
Integrative Approaches: Experience a personalised blend of methods designed to meet your unique needs and goals.