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Direct billing with most major insurers. Two registrations on staff (CCC + RSW) means broader plan coverage than most Calgary practices.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions - Getting Started
Getting Started
- 01Therapy can help if you're experiencing: Persistent feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, or depression Difficulty managing emotions (anger, irritability, numbness) Relationships that feel stuck or conflictual Past experiences that still affect your present Struggling with focus, organization, or feeling "different" Burnout or exhaustion that rest doesn't fix A sense that something needs to change but you're not sure what You don't need to be "broken" or in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many men I work with are highly functional but dealing with specific challenges that therapy can address effectively. The best way to know if therapy, and specifically my approach, is right for you is to book a free 30-minute consultation. No pressure, just a conversation.
- 02The first full session (50 minutes) is about understanding what brought you in and whether we're a good fit. Here's what to expect: We'll discuss: What's happening now that made you reach out Your history and background (but we won't spend the whole time on your childhood unless it's relevant) What you're hoping therapy will help with Previous therapy experiences (if any) and what worked or didn't Practical details: frequency, approach, expectations I'll explain: How I work and what my approach looks like What therapy will involve for your specific situation - Confidentiality, policies, and logistics Next steps if we decide to work together You'll decide: Whether my approach feels like a good fit If you want to schedule ongoing sessions There's no obligation to continue after the first session. This is as much about you evaluating me as it is about me understanding how to help you.
- 03No. You don't need a formal diagnosis to start therapy. Many people come in wondering if they have ADHD, autism, trauma, depression, etc. and part of our work can be exploring that. When diagnosis IS helpful: Accessing medication (ADHD, depression, anxiety) Workplace accommodations Validation and understanding ("There's a reason I've struggled with this") Insurance coverage (in some cases) When diagnosis ISN'T necessary: Building practical coping strategies Processing difficult experiences Understanding how you're wired Making life changes If formal assessment would be helpful, I can refer you to appropriate providers in Calgary (psychologists, psychiatrists). But we can start working together regardless of diagnosis status.
- 04Honest answer: It depends on what you're dealing with and what you're hoping to achieve. Short-term (3-6 months): Specific, focused issues (recent breakup, work conflict, stress management) Learning concrete skills (anger management, communication) Processing a specific traumatic event with EMDR Medium-term (6-12 months): ADHD/neurodivergent support and executive function coaching Complex trauma processing Burnout recovery Significant life transitions Longer-term (1+ years): Complex developmental trauma Deeply ingrained patterns from childhood Multiple co-occurring issues The reality: Most men I work with start with weekly sessions for 2-3 months, then transition to biweekly or monthly as things stabilize. Some prefer ongoing monthly "maintenance" sessions. Others do intensive work for 6 months and then stop. We'll discuss your goals and create a realistic timeline together and adjust as needed.
- 05Yes. What you tell me in therapy is protected by professional ethics and privacy laws. I cannot share information about you without your explicit written consent. The only exceptions (legally required): You disclose intent to harm yourself or someone else You disclose ongoing child abuse or neglect A court orders me to release records (rare) What this means practically: Your employer won't know you're in therapy (unless you tell them) Your insurance company only knows you're using mental health benefits; not what we discuss I won't tell family, friends, or anyone else that you're my client I won't acknowledge you in public unless you acknowledge me first If you want me to communicate with your doctor, partner, or another provider, I'll need your written consent first and you control what information is shared.
- 06Three ways: 1. Online Booking: Book Here 2. Call/Text: 780-399-2859 Leave a message with your name and best time to reach you. I typically return calls within 24-48 hours. 3. Email: info@pathfindertherapy.ca Send a brief message about what you're looking for. I'll respond within 24-48 hours to schedule your free consultation. Next Steps: We'll schedule a free 30-minute consultation (phone or video) If we both think it's a good fit, we'll book your first full session I'll send intake paperwork to complete before your first session
Still unsure? Book a free 30-min consult and we’ll figure out the best next step.
Services & Specializations
Frequently Asked Questions - Services and Specializations
Services & Specializations
- 01Many men find it easier to open up with a male therapist who understands the specific ways men experience and express mental health challenges. What this includes: Socialization around emotion ("man up," "don't be weak") Different presentations of ADHD in men (irritability, risk-taking, workaholism) Trauma responses that show up as anger, withdrawal, or overwork Pressure to "have it together" in Calgary's competitive professional environment Discomfort with traditional "therapy language" Practical differences: Less need to explain certain experiences (workplace competition, pressure to provide, relationship to masculinity) Often more direct communication style Less concern about being judged for "not being vulnerable enough" Easier to discuss topics that feel embarrassing or shameful That said: The most important factor is finding a therapist whose approach fits what you need, gender is one consideration among many. The best therapist for you is the one you feel comfortable actually talking to.
- 02It can be, though every therapist is different regardless of gender. Many men report: More comfortable discussing certain topics (sex, anger, competition, feeling inadequate) Appreciate directness without feeling "coddled" Less performative—don't feel pressure to show emotion a certain way Easier to be honest about struggles without feeling judged My specific approach: Direct and practical (not overly "therapeutic") Focus on solutions and strategies alongside emotional processing No BS or jargon you need a psychology degree to understand Respect for however you express (or don't express) emotion The best way to know: Book the free 30-minute consultation. You'll get a sense of whether my style feels like a fit for you.
- 03My practice specializes in men's mental health, but I work with all genders. What this means: The specialized focus on men means I deeply understand male-specific presentations and challenges, but the skills and approaches (EMDR, neurodivergent-affirming therapy, burnout treatment) work for anyone dealing with these issues. Why the focus on men: Men are historically underserved in mental health care, often face specific barriers to accessing support, and frequently benefit from approaches that don't assume a traditionally "feminine" relationship to emotions and therapy. If you're not a man but the specializations (ADHD, trauma, burnout) fit what you're dealing with, you're welcome to reach out.
- 04Talk therapy: Focuses on understanding, insight, and coping Addresses the cognitive level (thoughts, beliefs, patterns) Helps you make sense of experiences Works well for many issues EMDR: Focuses on reprocessing and resolving traumatic memories Addresses the physiological/neurological level (where trauma is stored) Helps your brain complete processing that got stuck Specifically designed for trauma and PTSD Think of it this way: Talk therapy helps you understand and manage trauma. EMDR helps your brain actually resolve it at a neurological level. Both have value. EMDR is particularly effective when: You've tried talk therapy and it helped you understand but didn't fully resolve it You have specific traumatic memories that still feel "present" Your body reacts to triggers even though you intellectually know you're safe You want targeted, efficient trauma processing
- 05No. While EMDR was developed for PTSD, it's effective for any distressing memory or experience that still affects you. EMDR can help with: Childhood experiences (abuse, neglect, bullying, humiliation) - Relationship betrayals or breakups - Work-related trauma (harassment, bullying, firing) Embarrassing or shameful events Grief and loss Performance anxiety or specific fears Anger that feels out of proportion The key question: Does the memory have an emotional "charge" that feels stuck or disproportionate? If thinking about it still triggers a strong reaction, EMDR can likely help. You don't need a PTSD diagnosis or a "big T" trauma to benefit from EMDR.
- 06EMDR is safe when practiced by trained therapists. We use multiple techniques to ensure you don't get overwhelmed: Safety measures: Grounding exercises before and after processing "Container" techniques to set aside material between sessions You can pause or stop processing anytime—you're in complete control Titration (working with small pieces if a memory feels too intense) Resource installation (building internal resources before processing difficult material) What makes it safe: You're not reliving the trauma. You're briefly recalling it while simultaneously focusing on bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tapping). This dual attention prevents re-traumatization. If you start to feel overwhelmed: We immediately slow down, ground you, or stop processing. The goal is resolution, not re-traumatization. We work at a pace your nervous system can handle.
- 07No. This is one of the biggest misconceptions about EMDR. What actually happens: You briefly recall the memory (like thinking about it) while simultaneously focusing on external stimulation (following my fingers with your eyes, or alternating tactile tapping). This dual attention prevents you from fully "reliving" it. It's more like: Watching a movie of the memory from a distance while your brain processes and files it properly—rather than being immersed in it again. This is different from prolonged exposure therapy, which does involve retelling traumatic stories in detail repeatedly. EMDR doesn't require that. Most people describe EMDR as: "I can think about what happened, but it doesn't have the same emotional punch anymore."
- 08Varies based on complexity, but here are general timelines: Single-incident trauma (car accident, assault, specific event): Often resolves in 3-6 EMDR sessions You'll notice improvement after 1-2 sessions Complex trauma (childhood abuse, multiple traumas, developmental trauma): Typically requires months of work Multiple memories to process, deeper patterns to address Progress is gradual but noticeable Factors affecting timeline: How many traumatic memories need processing Your current support system and resources Co-occurring issues (depression, substance use, etc.) How much you can practice between sessions What you'll notice: Memories lose their emotional intensity Physical reactions (tension, panic, hypervigilance) decrease Triggers don't have the same impact You feel more present and less haunted by the past If you're not seeing ANY improvement after 4-6 sessions, we reassess whether EMDR is the right approach for you.
- 09I cannot provide formal ADHD diagnoses in Alberta, those require assessment by a psychologist or psychiatrist. However, I can: Help you explore whether ADHD fits your experience Provide neurodivergent-affirming support regardless of diagnosis status Refer you to qualified assessors in Calgary if formal diagnosis would be helpful Support you through the assessment process Help you implement strategies and accommodations once diagnosed The reality: Many people find therapy helpful even without formal diagnosis. The label matters less than understanding how you're wired and building systems that work for your brain. If you want medication or formal workplace accommodations, you'll need a diagnosis. For practical support and strategies, you don't.
- 10They serve different purposes: ASSESSMENT (done by psychologists/psychiatrists): Formal testing and evaluation (usually 4-6 hours) Results in an official diagnosis (or rules it out) Required for medication and some accommodations Cost: $1,500-$3,000+ in Calgary Wait times: Weeks to months (private) or 6-12+ months (public) THERAPY (what I provide): Understanding how your brain works differently Executive function coaching and practical strategies Processing the emotional impact of late diagnosis Building sustainable systems for work, relationships, and daily life Available whether you have formal diagnosis or not Ongoing support as you implement changes The best approach is often both: Get assessed if you want medication or formal accommodations, and do therapy to build the skills and systems that make daily life sustainable.
- 11No. If neurodivergent-affirming approaches help you and the framework makes sense, that's what matters. You might want diagnosis if: You're considering medication (ADHD) You need formal workplace accommodations You want official validation or documentation It would help you understand yourself better You DON'T need diagnosis to: Work with me and get support Build executive function strategies Understand how you're wired Process the challenges you're facing Connect with neurodivergent community Many people work with me while exploring whether formal assessment would be useful, there's no requirement to have a diagnosis first. We start where you are.
- 12This is incredibly common—issues rarely exist in isolation. Common overlaps: ADHD + Trauma: Trauma symptoms (hypervigilance, concentration issues) can look like ADHD, or you might have both ADHD + Burnout: Undiagnosed ADHD often leads to burnout from constant compensation and overwork Trauma + Burnout: Unresolved trauma can drive perfectionism and overwork that leads to burnout All three: Many men I work with have neurodivergence, unresolved trauma, AND burnout How we address this: I take an integrated approach, we don't treat symptoms in isolation. We work to understand how the pieces connect and affect each other, then build comprehensive support that addresses the whole picture. For example: If you have ADHD and trauma, we might use EMDR to process traumatic memories while simultaneously building executive function strategies for ADHD—because both are affecting your life.
- 13Often, yes. Sometimes the job is the problem, but more often it's: How you're doing the job Boundaries you haven't set Beliefs driving your behavior Lack of recovery outside work We figure out what's sustainable for YOUR situation.
- 14Depends on: How deep the burnout is How much you can change your environment Whether you have underlying issues (ADHD, trauma, depression) Typical timeline: 3-6 months of consistent work to feel significantly better. Full recovery can take longer.
- 15This is the question that keeps people stuck. We address: Actual financial reality vs. fear What "slowing down" actually means (it's not binary) The cost of NOT addressing burnout (it gets worse) What's truly non-negotiable vs. what feels that way
- 16Burnout usually starts at work, but it affects everything: relationships, health, hobbies, your sense of self. We address the whole picture.
Practical Details
Frequently Asked Questions - Practical Details
- 0124-hour notice required for cancellations or rescheduling. If you cancel with 24+ hours notice: No charge If you cancel with less than 24 hours notice or no-show: You'll be charged the full session fee Why this policy exists: That time is reserved for you. Late cancellations mean I can't offer the spot to someone else who needs it. Exceptions: Emergencies happen (illness, family crisis, etc.). If you have a genuine emergency, let me know and we'll work something out. How to cancel: Call, text, or email as soon as you know you need to cancel. The sooner you let me know, the better.
- 02For scheduling or administrative questions: Yes, email or text anytime. For therapy content or urgent issues: This depends on what you need. Between-session contact: I'm not available for crisis support between sessions—therapy is structured support, not 24/7 availability. If you're in crisis, use the resources listed at the bottom of this page. For non-urgent therapeutic questions: Brief check-ins via email are sometimes appropriate (e.g., clarifying something from a session, brief update). Longer conversations should wait for your next session. If you're struggling: We can schedule an additional session rather than trying to handle complex issues via email or text.
- 03Everything you tell me is confidential and protected by professional ethics and privacy laws. What's protected: That you're my client What we discuss in sessions Your records and notes I cannot share information without your written consent (except in legally required situations—see "Is therapy confidential?" above). Electronic communication: I use encrypted email and secure video platforms. However, no electronic communication is 100% secure. Don't send highly sensitive information via regular email or text. Records: I keep clinical notes for my own use and legal requirements. These are stored securely and destroyed according to professional standards (typically 7-10 years after our last session).
- 04Your employer: No. They have no access to therapy content. The only way they'd know you're in therapy is if you tell them (e.g., asking for time off, using EAP benefits, requesting accommodations). Your insurance company: They know you're using mental health benefits (I provide receipts for reimbursement), but they don't know what we discuss. The receipt shows: Date of service My credentials Type of service (psychotherapy) Fee It does NOT include diagnosis, session notes, or content. Confidentiality is protected. What we discuss stays between us.
- 05Yes. I'm licensed in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba and offer secure video sessions across all three provinces. Many clients prefer online therapy for: Convenience (no commute, especially in Calgary traffic/winter) Privacy (no waiting room) Flexibility (easier to fit into busy schedules) Access (available from anywhere in AB, SK, MB) In-person sessions are available at my NE Calgary office for those who prefer face-to-face. Technical requirements: Reliable internet connection Computer, tablet, or smartphone with camera/microphone Private space where you can talk freely I use a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform (not FaceTime).
- 06My office is located in NE Calgary: 7-606 Meredith Road NE, T2E 2W5 Parking: Free 1hr parking available on the Street (First come first serve), Paid underground parking across the street. Accessibility: Currently not accessible, stairs and no lift up to second floor office. Sessions are also available online if you prefer not to commute.
- 07I offer appointments: Weekdays: 9am-9pm Evenings: Tuesday-Thursday until 9pm Weekends: Limited Saturday availability I understand that Calgary professionals often need flexibility. I do my best to accommodate scheduling needs, including early morning or evening appointments when possible.
- 08Standard therapy session: 50 minutes EMDR session: 60-90 minutes (EMDR often requires longer sessions for complete processing of a memory) First session: 50 minutes (intake and assessment) Free consultation: 30 minutes (phone or video)
- 09Depends on what you're working on and what's sustainable for you. Common patterns: Weekly:** Most common for active trauma processing, burnout recovery, or intensive ADHD support Biweekly: Once you've built some tools and stability Monthly: Maintenance/check-ins after intensive work As-needed: Some clients prefer flexible scheduling We decide together based on: What you're dealing with Your goals and timeline What's financially and logistically sustainable What's most effective for your situation There's no one-size-fits-all. We start with a frequency that makes sense and adjust as needed.
- 10Individual Session (50 minutes): $180 EMDR Session (60-90 minutes): $250 Free Consultation (30 minutes): No charge Fees are due at time of service. I accept payment by credit card, debit, e-transfer, or cash.
- 11I direct bill insurance, most extended health plans cover psychotherapy with my credentials (CCC, MACP). What to check with your insurance: Do you have "mental health" or "psychotherapy" coverage? What's your coverage limit? (Often $500-$3,000 per year) Do they cover Registered Psychotherapists or Canadian Certified Counsellors (CCC)? Is there a per-session limit? Most Alberta extended health plans cover psychotherapy, but check your specific plan to confirm.
- 12I maintain a limited number of sliding scale spots for clients experiencing genuine financial hardship. To inquire about reduced rates: Reach out via email or phone and briefly explain your situation. I'll let you know if I have availability at a reduced rate. Note: Sliding scale spots fill quickly and aren't always available.
- 13Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) Debit E-transfer Cash BTC Payment is due at the time of service (end of each session).
About My Approach
Frequently Asked Questions - About My Approach
About My Approach
- 01Several things: 1. Specialization in men's mental health I understand the specific ways men experience ADHD, trauma, and burnout and the barriers that keep men from seeking support. 2. Focus on three high-need areas Neurodivergence (ADHD/Autism) in adults Trauma processing through EMDR Executive burnout and sustainable high performance These are areas where Calgary has significant gaps in specialized support. 3. Direct, practical approach I don't do endless exploration or vague "how does that make you feel?" therapy. We identify what's stuck, build practical tools, and work toward concrete goals. 4. Integration of modalities I draw on what's most effective for your situation: EMDR for trauma, executive function coaching for ADHD, nervous system regulation for burnout, somatic work when needed. 5. Understanding Calgary's context I get the specific pressures of Alberta's industries, the economic volatility, and the cultural expectations that drive many men to burnout.
- 02I work from an integrative approach, which means I draw on multiple therapeutic frameworks depending on what you need: For trauma: EMDR and somatic (body-based) processing For neurodivergence: Executive function coaching, psychoeducation, systems-building For burnout: Nervous system regulation, cognitive restructuring, practical problem-solving For all of it: Direct communication, collaborative goal-setting, and practical tools you can actually use Core principles: You're the expert on your life; I'm here to help you see patterns and build tools Therapy should help, not just explore, we work toward concrete goals No BS or jargon; I explain things in plain language What works matters more than theoretical purity
- 03Good question. Here are signs therapy is effective: You're noticing patterns you couldn't see before ("Oh, that's why I always do that...") Triggers have less impact - situations that used to derail you don't have the same power You're implementing tools and seeing results (not just hearing advice) You feel more clarity even if everything isn't "fixed" yet Relationships are improving - you're communicating better, fighting less Physical symptoms decrease - sleeping better, less tension, more energy You can make decisions more easily and trust yourself more Life feels more manageable even when circumstances haven't changed dramatically
- 04After 6-8 sessions, you should notice SOME improvement. If you're not: We discuss what's not working Adjust our approach Consider whether a different therapist or modality would be better Therapy should help. If it's not, we reassess rather than just continuing indefinitely.
- 05This is a common and valid concern. Here's why it might be different: 1. Different approach If you've only tried traditional talk therapy and it felt like "just talking in circles," EMDR and somatic work might be what you need—they address trauma at a physiological level. 2. Specific specialization If previous therapy was generalist, specialized support for ADHD, trauma, or burnout might finally address what you're actually dealing with. 3. Better fit Maybe the therapeutic relationship wasn't right. Some therapists are great but not the right match for you. Finding someone whose style works for you matters enormously. 4. Wrong timing Sometimes therapy doesn't work because you weren't ready, the situation was too chaotic, or you didn't have the resources to implement changes. Timing matters. 5. Mismatched expectations If you expected quick fixes or the therapist expected you to "do the work" without clear guidance, frustration is inevitable. What's different here: Clear specialization in areas that might fit what you're dealing with Multiple modalities (not just talk therapy) Direct, practical approach with concrete tools Male-focused understanding of how men present and process The best way to know: Book the free consultation. We'll discuss what didn't work before and whether my approach might be different.
- 06Sometimes, but only if it's useful. I'm not big on formal homework - most adults don't need another thing on their to-do list. However, therapy is most effective when you're applying what we discuss between sessions. What "homework" might look like: Trying a specific strategy we discussed (grounding technique, communication approach) Noticing patterns we've identified Practicing skills (executive function tools, emotion regulation) Reading something relevant (article, book recommendation) Experimenting with a change in routine or boundaries It's collaborative: If I suggest something, we discuss whether it's realistic for you. If it doesn't fit your life, we adjust. The goal is progress, not compliance. If you don't do "homework": We talk about what got in the way, often that reveals important information about what's actually sustainable for you. I'm not going to guilt-trip you about "not doing the work." Real life gets in the way sometimes, and that's useful information. Bottom line: Therapy works best when you're applying things between sessions, but that looks different for everyone. We figure out what's actually helpful for you.
Crisis Resources
Frequently Asked Questions - Crisis & Emergency Resources
- 01If you're in immediate danger or having a medical emergency: Call 911 For mental health crisis support: Calgary Distress Centre 403-266-HELP (4357) Available 24/7 for crisis support, suicide intervention, and emotional support Alberta Mental Health Help Line 1-877-303-2642 24/7 crisis support across Alberta 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline Call or text 988 24/7 suicide prevention and crisis support (Canada-wide) Text Crisis Line Text "CONNECT" to 686868 24/7 text-based crisis support Kids Help Phone (under 29) 1-800-668-6868 or text 686868 24/7 support for youth and young adults Distress Centre Calgary Chat www.distresscentre.com Live chat available during posted hours Calgary Emergency Departments (24/7): Foothills Medical Centre - 1403 29 St NW Peter Lougheed Centre - 3500 26 Ave NE Rockyview General Hospital - 7007 14 St SW South Health Campus - 4448 Front St SE Important: I provide ongoing therapy, not crisis intervention. If you're in crisis outside of our scheduled sessions, please use the resources above, they're staffed 24/7 by trained crisis professionals.
- 02First, know that suicidal thoughts are a symptom; they mean you're in intense pain and your brain is looking for a way out. They don't mean you're "crazy" or weak. They mean you need support. If you're actively planning to harm yourself: Call 911 immediately Go to the nearest Emergency Department Call Calgary Distress Centre: 403-266-HELP (4357) Call/text 988 (Suicide Crisis Helpline) If you're having thoughts but not actively planning: Call Calgary Distress Centre: 403-266-HELP (4357) - they can talk you through it Call/text 988 Reach out to someone you trust right now If you have an upcoming session with me, come to it—or contact me to see if I can schedule an emergency session Between our sessions: I can help with suicidal thoughts as part of our ongoing therapy work, but if you're in active crisis, you need immediate crisis support (resources above) first. Once you're stabilized, we'll work together on longer-term strategies. After using crisis resources: Let me know what happened at your next session so we can adjust our treatment plan and address what led to the crisis.
- 03The right response depends on the severity: IMMEDIATE DANGER (to yourself or others): Call 911 Go to the nearest Emergency Department Have someone take you if possible—don't drive yourself SERIOUS CRISIS (not immediate danger, but can't wait): Calgary Distress Centre: 403-266-HELP (4357) - 24/7 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988 Alberta Health Link: 811 (nurse advice line) Reach out to a trusted friend or family member who can stay with you Contact your family doctor if available URGENT BUT MANAGEABLE: Call to schedule an earlier session with me if I have availability Use grounding techniques we've discussed Reach out to your support system Call Distress Centre for emotional support: 403-266-HELP (4357) After hours/between sessions: I'm not available for crisis support outside of scheduled sessions—therapy is structured support, not 24/7 availability. The crisis resources above are specifically designed for immediate help when you need it. Following a crisis: Once you're stable, contact me. We'll discuss: What happened and what triggered the crisis What helped and what didn't Whether our treatment plan needs adjustment Additional supports or resources you might need Safety planning for future crises Important distinction: Crisis services = Immediate, short-term intervention when you're in danger Therapy = Ongoing support to address underlying issues and reduce crisis frequency Both are important. Use crisis resources when you need immediate help, and therapy to build long-term stability.
Crisis Resources
Still unsure? Book a free 30-min consult and we’ll figure out the best next step.
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