Frequently asked questions
How Much Does
Therapy Cost?
New Growth Psychology adheres to the rate established by the Psychologists' Association of Alberta. As of January 2023 the rate is set at $220 per individual or couples session. Psychological services are not covered through Alberta Health Care benefits, however, they are often reclaimable through private insurance or employee health benefits. It is recommended to contact your benefits provider to determine the amount of coverage available to you.
-
We accept cash, e-transfer, Visa and Mastercard.
-
We direct bill to the following insurance providers:
-
Alberta Blue Cross
-
Medavie Blue Cross
-
Canada Life
-
NexgenRx
-
The Co-operators
What If I Need to
Cancel My Appointment?
Life happens and sometimes you need to cancel you appointment. Let us know as soon as you are able. There is a strict no-show and late cancellation policy. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice will be subject to a cancellation fee (session price).
What About
Confidentiality?
The law protects the privacy of all
communications between clients and Psychologists. Information about your file will only be released with your written permission. There are three exceptions:
-
If there is reason to believe that you are at risk of harming yourself or others, we are required to take protective action.
-
If there is suspicion or report of ongoing abuse or neglect to a child or dependent adult, we are required to report the concern.
-
If a court of law subpoenas the content of your file or calls for testimony in court.
In the event confidentiality needs to be breached, every effort will be made to discuss it with you prior to taking any action. If action is required, such as in the case of risk of harm to self or others, action may include calling emergency services or notifying supports and/or family.
How Long Do Sessions Last?
Sessions are typically around 50 minutes. This allows the therapist time to prepare for the next client. Longer sessions are available. Contact us for more information.
What Happens in the First Session?
The first session is about getting to know you, discussing the issues and reasons for you coming in, and finding out what you would like to get out of therapy. It is also a time for us to find out if we are a good fit to work together. Be honest about:
-
If you are looking for a certain type of treatment or therapy style
-
If you disagree with something said in session
-
If you are not satisfied with your therapy progress
We will also discuss:
-
Consent/confidentiality
-
Frequency/duration of appointments (weekly/biweekly)
-
Payments (insurance, credit card)
Therapy is about you, and figuring out what works best for you.
What Happens
to My Files?
The laws and standards governing the Psychology profession require Psychologists to keep treatment records. The information contained within client files includes all paperwork completed by the client, as well as case notes. Case notes generally include basic information about what has been discussed during each session. By law, client files are required to be maintained for a minimum of ten years, at which time they are destroyed. Files are securely stored and are kept confidential.
Do you offer reduced rates for university students or those with low income?
Please contact us if finances are an issue. We want to do our best to make therapy affordable based on your financial circumstances. As well, we offer reduced rates for University students. A valid student ID is required for the reduced rate. Contact us for more information.
Are there other costs to be aware of?
The Psychologists' Association of Alberta outlines additional services costs outside of the therapy session. These services include:
-
Letters and form completions, reports and telephone consultations.
-
The cost for these services are prorated based on the service provided and the time to complete requests.
How Do I Make an Appointment?
Options for Booking:
-
Click Book an Appointment, which will take to you Jane, our online booking system. First, you will need to create an account in order to access the schedule. Online booking allows you to view the schedule live and book when it best works for you.
-
You can also book by email or phone.*
* E-mails and phone calls will be responded to within two business days.
Do You Offer
Online Counselling?
Yes we do! If you prefer, we can arrange for your sessions to be conducted online using an online video counselling service called doxy.me. After you book an appointment, you will receive an e-mail with a link to a secure video chat. It is important that you have a strong and private internet connection. If you would like to arrange an online counselling session, please e-mail zberg@newgrowthpsychology.ca or call 780-424-9795, ext. 106.
How Does COVID-19 Impact Services?
We offer both in person and online counselling services.
-
Currently, city by-laws indicate masks are required for all in person appointments.
-
All seating is maintained at a safe (2 meters) distance.
-
All surfaces are regularly cleaned
-
Hand sanitizer is provided.
Additional information about Edmonton Covid-19 restrictions can be found here
