Frequently Asked Questions

Starting counselling can feel like a big step and it's natural to have questions before reaching out. Below are answers to some of the questions we hear most often. You may also wish to explore our Psychology and Counselling Services to learn more about what we offer.

How Do I Know If Therapy Is Right For Me?

Many people believe they need to be experiencing a major crisis before seeking counselling. In reality, therapy can be helpful anytime you feel overwhelmed, stuck, emotionally exhausted, anxious, or simply want a safe place to talk.

You do not need to have everything figured out before reaching out. Therapy provides a confidential place to explore whatever you are going through, gain insight, and develop healthier ways of coping with life's challenges.

Do I Need A Referral To See A Psychologist Or A Counsellor?

Whether you need a referral may depend on who is paying for your psychology or counselling services. In most cases, a referral is not required and you can contact us directly to book an appointment.

If you are paying for therapy yourself, no referral is needed. You can click on Schedule an Appointment or Book a 15-Minute Free Consultation anywhere on the website.

If you want to use extended health benefits to pay for therapy, many insurance providers cover psychology and counselling services without a referral. However, coverage and referral requirements vary between plans. We recommend contacting your insurance provider before your first appointment to confirm your coverage, eligibility, and if there are any referral requirements.

If you have an active motor vehicle accident claim, we may be able to bill your motor vehicle insurer directly. In these situations, we will require specific claim information before your appointment to determine eligibility and arrange billing. Please contact our office for more information.

If you wish to access services through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP), please contact your provider in advance to confirm that you have an active file and authorization for services. If your EAP/EFAP allows you to choose your service provider, you may request a referral to Overcoming Waves Psychology & Counselling. We encourage you to contact our office or your EAP/EFAP provider to determine whether our services are eligible for direct billing through your specific program.

If you have questions about referrals, insurance coverage, or payment options, we would be happy to discuss these with you before booking your first appointment.

Do We Offer Virtual Counselling?

Yes. In addition to in-person appointments at our North Edmonton office, we offer secure virtual counselling sessions for clients throughout Alberta.

Virtual therapy allows you to access professional support from wherever you feel most comfortable, while maintaining the same level of care and confidentiality. Many clients attend sessions from home, while others choose a private space in their vehicle, connect during a lunch break, or participate while taking a walk. Virtual sessions offer flexibility to fit therapy into your daily life.

Is Psychology & Counselling Confidential?

Confidentiality is an important part of the therapeutic relationship and helps create a safe and supportive space for you. In general, information shared during counselling is kept private.

There are some exceptions to confidentiality, such as situations involving safety concerns or other circumstances required by law. These limits will be reviewed with you in the informed consent process before beginning therapy.

If you are accessing counselling services through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP), your privacy remain important priorities. Depending on your specific program, there may be additional policies or requirements related to confidentiality and information sharing. These will be discussed during your first session so that you have a clear understanding of how your information is protected and any applicable limits to confidentiality. If you have questions before your appointment, you are welcome to contact your EAP/EFAP provider for more information about their confidentiality policies.

All details regarding confidentiality, including any program-specific considerations, will be reviewed with you during the informed consent process. You are also welcome to ask questions about confidentiality at any time throughout therapy.

How Many Sessions Will I Need?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer for how many therapy sessions you might need. Some people benefit from a small number of sessions focused on a specific concern, while others choose longer-term support as they work through more complex challenges.

Together, we will regularly review your goals and determine what level of support is most appropriate for your needs.

What Issues Do You Help With?

We support individuals experiencing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, trauma & PTSD, burnout, work stress, grief, relationship challenges, motor vehicle accident recovery, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, and emotional wellbeing. If the concern you would like to address is not listed on this website, please feel free to contact us. We would be happy to discuss whether our services may be a good fit for your needs.

Every person's situation is unique and therapy is always tailored to your individual goals, circumstances, and needs.

How Do I Get Started?

Getting started is simple. Contact us by phone, email, or through our website to book a session or to arrange a free 15-minute consultation.

The free 15-minute consultation gives you an opportunity to ask questions, ask about your therapist, and determine whether counselling at our office is a good fit for you before scheduling your first appointment.