Sign up for our free daily newsletter!
(Supplied)
No waitlist or financial barriers

Counselling Alberta launches new website and phone number

Feb 10, 2023 | 5:08 PM

Counselling Alberta launched its new website and designated phone number this week, which they say will ensure easy access to mental health counselling for all Albertans.

Since June 2022, Counselling Alberta says it has been providing online counselling across the province following a partnership between the Government of Alberta and the Calgary Counselling Centre to address the growing need for mental health services in the province. A total of $6.75 million was allocated by the provincial government to ensure access to both virtual and in-person counselling throughout Alberta, say officials with the organization.

READ: Counselling Alberta expands province-wide, focusing on rural virtual counselling

While Counselling Alberta services were being accessed via the Calgary Counselling Centre website, they now have their own website, where all Albertans can book services for virtual and telephone appointments.

“This website will allow all Albertans quick access to effective mental health counselling services without a waitlist,” said Dr. Robbie Babins-Wagner, Calgary Counselling Centre CEO.

Officials with Counselling Alberta say they are committed to ensuring that every Albertan can have easy access to mental health counselling without financial barriers as fees for service are assessed on a sliding scale.

They claim research shows that online counselling is equally effective as in-person care, with feedback from clients who’ve received online support being very positive, listing advantages such as the elimination of barriers to access, like time and mobility, and being more approachable for clients experiencing anxiety or stigma.

“I much preferred the online counselling. I have anxiety about appointments and the counselling being virtual was easier for me to actually do. Having an online option was the best thing possible for me. It also meant that I could schedule my counselling between work much more easily since I was working from home and already on the computer,” said a Counselling Alberta client wishing to remain anonymous.

Since March 2020, officials say the Calgary Counselling Centre and Counselling Alberta have jointly delivered over 130,000 hours of counselling to individuals, couples, families, children, and youth.

The Calgary Counselling Centre has been providing services since 1962.

Counselling Alberta offers virtual counselling services to all age groups in a variety of areas including depression, children’s programs, domestic abuse, eating disorders, separation/divorce, trauma, and self-esteem.

Counselling Alberta services can be requested immediately online or by calling 833-827-4230.