Question 1

Where does counselling "happen"?"

Accepted Answer

offer both In Office and Online options for counselling.

1) In Office:
 
My office is located in the town of Coaldale and is located in a quiet, lower level of a business building. When you enter the building, you can move down a few steps to our floor entry door. Once in, you turn to your immediate left and you will see my office. The space is warm and inviting.

2) Online:
 
Online counselling can be scheduled through this site. Once you have scheduled the appointment, I will provide you with a link to a secure online video stream.
At your preference I can also connect via Facetime for apple users.

Question 2

How much does counselling cost?

Accepted Answer

My standard rates are as follows:
 
Consultation
15-20 min consultation - Free
 
Indivdiual Session
60 min Individual Session - $120

The first session will involve some paperwork before getting started. If you would like to review the information and/or fill out the paperwork prior to attending your session it may be accessible under "Services".

Couples Session
90 min Couples Session - $140

In addition to the standard paperwork, the Couples Session will have additional paperwork to fill out regarding your relationship. This will provide all parties a framework of reference regarding the focus areas during counselling.

This can be accomplished online, and access will be provided once counselling has begun.

Question 3

What forms of payment do you accept?

Accepted Answer

I accept the following methods of payment:
Cash
Cheque
Visa
Mastercard
E-transfers
You may schedule your appointment online using this site, and pay in office folowing the session.

Question 4

Will my insurance or extended health benefits cover counselling?

Accepted Answer

Health benefit providers differ significantly from company to company and plan to plan.  To find out if your coverage will include counselling with me, contact them and provide them with the following information:
 
Matthew Fredin holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) with a clinical specialization.
He is registered with the Alberta College of Social Work.
His Registered Social Work (RSW) number is 11906.
 
Past Clients have used:
Bluecross
Alberta School Employee Benefit Plan (ASEBP) 
Sunlife
Great West Life
Manulife

Question 5

How often should I meet for counselling?

Accepted Answer

On average, most people will meet with me on a weekly basis for the first 4-6 sessions and then gradually meet less frequently. Every person is different, and counselling schedules are modified to a persons unique needs.
 
An individual is never required to make another appointment unless they want to, and there is an open dialogue throughout the process about goals, the overall experience, and eventual termination of services.

Question 6

What is your confidentiality policy?

Accepted Answer

Confidentiality is a key feature of the counselling experience, and often one of the primary reasons a counsellor is sought out.
 
As a professional, I follow ethical guidelines which protect your confidentiality and are in line with the standards and expectations set forth in professional practice.
 
Confidentiality does have exceptions. Confidentiality does not apply when disclosure is necessary to prevent serious, foreseeable, and imminent harm to a client or others. For example if there is evidence or concern surrounding:
suicidality
homocidality
abuse
harm or destruction to property or person
if a court subpoenas a case file.

Question 7

What should I expect from counselling?

Accepted Answer

This is a great question to ask! It is also difficult to answer because every person comes to a session with different expectations, issues, pesonal history, and so on. 
 
What I can say is you will experience an accepting and respectful atmosphere focused on providing a safe space for the expression of thoughts and emotion.
 
Counselling is not about a 'quick fix', and often takes a few sessions. With some effort on your part and a strong relationship with your therapist, it can be a successful tool toward resolving problems.

Question 8

What if I cannot make, or forget, my appointment?"

Accepted Answer

If you cannot make your appointment, please provide at least 24 hours notice.

Ph: 403-360-6056

matthew@integrativecounselling.ca

Frequently Asked Questions