By EPIC- Edmonton Psychologists Interagency Committee

promoting mental health supports

Letter: Why can’t Albertans access private psychologists in their communities?

Nov 14, 2019 | 8:21 PM

The Alberta Government is being petitioned for improved access to psychologists for all Albertans.

Many Psychologists are becoming increasingly concerned for the mental health of Albertans. Access to mental health supports are centralized in the medical care system, which is designed for acute physical or psychiatric crises, not mental health intervention.

Neither family doctors nor hospitals are adequately equipped to deal with escalating mental health issues. The system is significantly overextended. Depression and anxiety are at critical levels. Youth are turned away from hospitals after being labelled ‘chronic’ rather than at immediate risk of suicide.

Treatment programs struggle to address historical trauma underpinning addictions. Children with complex mental health needs are on long wait lists for treatment, as are those who have been sexually assaulted.

It is time to reform access to mental health supports. Support improved access by reading, signing and sharing our petition at http://chng.it/5ndJWj4fs8.

Last seen March 31

Missing: Eugenie Headman, 66, of Maskwacis

7h ago

mayor hopes to meet housing minister this month

Alberta demands Ottawa back off on housing funding stripped from Red Deer

Apr 02, 2026

Last seen Jan. 15

Missing: Courtney Cattleman, 17, of Maskwacis

Apr 02, 2026

Sincerely,

Janet Ryan-Newell CEO, Senior R. Psychologist

On behalf of EPIC- Edmonton Psychologists Interagency Committee

—

EDITOR’S NOTE: The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of rdnewsNOW or the Jim Pattison Broadcast Group. Suggestions and letters to the editor can be sent to news@rdnewsNOW.com.