Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of Counselling services do you offer?
We offer therapy to individuals, couples, children/youth, and families to help sort out the challenges that life can bring. This can be major life changes, relationship struggles, grief and loss, anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts. Sometimes historical trauma or abuse gets triggered under stress, making it more difficult to navigate. Whatever your circumstances, we’re here to help.
What Counselling services do you have available for Grief and Loss?
Whether you are grieving a loss that has not happened yet, a loss that is ongoing, or loss that happened in the past, we are here to support you. Our team members are trained in addressing all kinds of losses to help you grieve and heal. Individual, child/youth, couples, and family counselling is available for any kind of loss you may experience. Group counselling and our online course are available for those grieving the death of a loved one.
Do I have to be Jewish to receive counselling at the Edmonton Healing Centre?
Absolutely not! While we do have a few programs that cater directly to the local Jewish population, we welcome everyone, regardless of race or creed. We are LGBTQ+ friendly; not only are our services diverse, but our clientele and employees are too.
How much do your Counselling services cost?
Most insurances are able to be billed for our counselling services. Where there is difficulty in managing our fee, we can offer Counselling services on a sliding scale, which means that the amount you pay is aligned with your annual income and family size.
How much do group counselling sessions cost?
Our grief group program is $240 for each 5-8 week session, or $120 at our subsidized rate. Further reductions are available for those in financial need. Our pet loss group is $15/session. Group programs are not billed through insurance, but our individual, family, youth, and couples counselling is. If affordability is ever a concern, please reach out.
What kind of training do your therapists have?
Our counsellors and therapists have training in a range of modalities, including EMDR, art therapy, and hypnotherapy, among many others. You can explore more about some of our most sought-after therapeutic approaches online, or feel free to ask us! We’re happy to discuss our skills and expertise, and make sure that the modalities we use together are the right ones for your goals.
What should I expect in the consultation?
In the consultation, we will talk with you about what is bringing you into counselling so we can match you with one of our amazing, compassionate counsellors. We will also provide you with more details about our programs and make referrals when necessary to other supplemental supports.
What should I expect in my first session?
Your first session–and all your sessions–will be grounded in care and safety. We’ll spend the first few minutes reviewing consent so you have full control and we have clear permission to hold your story. By the end of the session, you’ll have a clearer sense of direction, and we’ll have a shared plan for how we can best support you moving forward.
I live out of town. Do I have to attend counselling in person?
We offer counselling to anyone in Alberta.Therapy sessions can always be attended virtually, or even over the phone if you prefer.
How does virtual therapy work? What is “telehealth”?
Virtual therapy runs just like a regular session–the only difference is we’re in two different spaces! Telehealth is a term that some folks use to describe counselling via technology, where the client and therapist are in two different locations. This can be over the phone or a video call, like Zoom.
Before your session, we will send you some forms to complete and information on what to do if there are technology difficulties, as well as a link to join online.
How do I pick the right therapist for me?
We’ll help you! During our initial consultation conversation, we’ll ask you some questions about what brought you to the Edmonton Healing Centre, and help determine the counsellor best suited to your needs and your goals.
You always have the right to ask questions about therapist qualifications, and to request a change of therapists at any time.
Is the information I provide confidential?
Yes, therapist notes and other documentation are kept securely on our agency premises. Unless mandated by court order, we will not confirm your client status or share information about you with anyone outside the agency, except with your written permission. Therapists are required by law to report to the authorities when they become aware of a minor at risk, or when a person is a risk to themselves or others. If you have any concerns or questions about confidentiality, don’t hesitate to ask!
How often do your group programs run?
Group programs run from September to June each year (inclusive). We take the summer months off to update our groups and ensure we are giving our clients our very best. Groups are usually on two-month cycles, starting September, November, January, March, and May. Our Pet Loss group runs every two weeks.
Do you direct bill?
Yes, we provide direct billing through many major insurance providers for individual, family, child/youth, and couples counselling. Our group counselling programs do not offer direct billing.
How do I register for groups?
Simply head to our online booking page and register online for the group you are interested in. We will follow up with you to give you some more information and make sure it’s the right fit.
Ready to take the next step?
Located in West Edmonton, we offer both in-person and remote appointments. Ready to talk? Book your free 30-minute telephone or video consultation to be matched with the best therapist or group for you.
You can book online or contact us by phone at 780-454-1194 or email at info@jfse.org. We will get back to you within two business days.