Relationships

Embark on a transformative journey towards understanding and love with our specialized couples therapy services. Recognized for its effectiveness, our approach offers targeted support designed to strengthen the bonds of romantic partnerships. Whether you're navigating challenges or seeking to deepen your connection, our expert guidance paves the way for a healthier, more fulfilling relationship.

At the heart of every thriving relationship is the power of communication. Our relationship counselling services put a spotlight on enhancing dialogue between partners, making it a central focus of our sessions. Whether it’s expressing emotions, sharing thoughts, or resolving conflicts, our expert guidance is here to elevate your communication skills to new heights. Experience deeper understanding and connection in your partnership through the art of conversation.

Unlock the full potential of your relationship by nurturing a profound emotional connection with our specialized relationship counselling services. emotional intimacy is at the core of what we offer, guiding partners to explore and deepen their emotional bonds. Through our expert support, discover the pathways to truly understanding and empathizing with each other, fostering a safe space for vulnerability and connection. Strengthen the foundation of your partnership and experience the richness of a fully connected relationship. Embark on this journey with us and transform your emotional intimacy into the cornerstone of your love and unity.

Trust and boundaries are fundamental to the health and longevity of any relationship. Our relationship counselling services emphasize the critical importance of establishing clear boundaries and building a foundation of trust between partners. Whether navigating new relationships, strengthening existing ones, or addressing specific challenges, our approach is designed to foster open communication, mutual respect, and understanding. Our expert counsellors guide couples through the process of identifying and respecting each other's boundaries, while also working on strategies to build and maintain trust. By focusing on these essential elements, we help create a safe and supportive environment where relationships can flourish.

At the heart of enduring relationships lie the pillars of Trust and Commitment. Our relationship counselling services are dedicated to helping you rebuild or strengthen these fundamental elements, ensuring your partnership stands on a solid foundation. Whether you're working to overcome challenges or aiming to deepen your bond, our expert guidance supports you in fostering trust and reinforcing commitment. Discover personalized strategies and insights to navigate the complexities of your relationship, creating a future together that is both fulfilling and secure.

Embrace the power of the present moment in your partnership with our focus on mindfulness in relationships. This approach introduces the transformative concept of being fully present and engaged with your partner, enhancing understanding, empathy, and connection. Our online counselling services guide couples in cultivating mindfulness practices that foster deep listening, appreciation, and emotional attunement to each other's needs and experiences. By integrating mindfulness into your relationship, you'll discover new levels of intimacy and satisfaction, turning everyday moments into opportunities for connection and growth.

Negotiating agreements within relationships is an art that requires understanding, respect, and clear communication. Our relationship counselling services specialize in guiding individuals and couples through the process of creating mutually beneficial agreements that honour the needs, boundaries, and aspirations of all parties involved. Whether you're in a monogamous, non-monogamous, or exploring a new relationship dynamic, our expert counsellors provide the support and strategies needed to facilitate productive discussions and establish clear, respectful agreements. By focusing on effective negotiation techniques and empathy-driven communication, we help ensure that every agreement fosters a sense of fairness, trust, and cooperation, strengthening the foundation of your relationship.

For many couples, challenges in the physical aspect of their relationship can be a source of stress and disconnect. Our online counselling is dedicated to addressing sex and intimacy issues, providing a compassionate and safe environment for partners to explore and express their needs, desires, and concerns. Whether you're looking to reignite the spark, overcome barriers to physical closeness, or deepen your connection, our expert therapists offer personalized strategies and support. By fostering open communication and understanding, we help couples rediscover the joy and fulfillment of a satisfying intimate relationship. Embark on a journey to enhance your physical and emotional connection, and transform intimacy into a source of strength and happiness in your partnership.

Setting and respecting healthy boundaries is fundamental to any strong, respectful relationship. Our relationship counselling services focus on the crucial role of personal limits, guiding couples to understand and establish boundaries that foster mutual respect and understanding. Whether it’s about personal space, communication preferences, or emotional needs, learning to articulate and honour these boundaries is key to maintaining a healthy partnership. Our expert counsellors provide the tools and support needed to navigate these discussions, ensuring that both partners feel heard, valued, and respected.

Discover the art of resolving disagreements in a way that strengthens your relationship rather than weakening it. Our relationship counselling services specialize in conflict resolution, offering strategies and guidance to address disputes healthily and constructively. Learn how to approach disagreements with understanding, empathy, and effective communication techniques that promote harmony and growth. Embrace the opportunity to turn every conflict into a stepping stone towards a deeper connection.

Financial issues are often a significant source of tension in relationships, leading to stress and conflict that can strain the bond between partners. Our relationship counselling services recognize the impact of financial stress and offer targeted support to help couples navigate these challenges together. By addressing financial planning, communication, and conflict resolution strategies, we aim to transform financial stress from a source of contention into an opportunity for growth and unity. Our expert counsellors provide a safe, supportive space for both partners to voice their concerns, understand each other's perspectives, and work collaboratively towards a stable and secure financial future.

Infidelity can deeply challenge the trust and foundation of a relationship. Our infidelity recovery counselling services offer specialized support for couples grappling with the aftermath of affairs and breaches of trust. We provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for both partners to express their feelings, understand the underlying issues, and start the healing process. Our goal is to guide you through rebuilding trust, fostering forgiveness, and re-establishing a strong, healthy relationship. Embrace the possibility of a renewed bond, where both partners are committed to growth, healing, and a future built on mutual respect and love.

Co-dependency is a pattern of behavior that can significantly hinder the health and autonomy of both partners in a relationship. Our relationship counselling services address these dynamics head-on, providing insight and strategies to break free from co-dependent behaviors. We focus on promoting independence, self-esteem, and healthy interdependence, ensuring that each partner can stand strong on their own while also contributing positively to the relationship. Through tailored guidance and support, our counsellors help you identify and change co-dependent patterns, fostering a balanced, fulfilling partnership where both individuals thrive.

Parenting, one of life's most rewarding journeys, comes with its unique set of challenges that can significantly impact the dynamics of a couple's relationship. Our online counselling services acknowledge the complexities of raising children and are dedicated to helping partners navigate these challenges together. From balancing parental responsibilities to maintaining a strong connection as a couple, our expert guidance offers strategies for effective communication, conflict resolution, and mutual support. Whether you're new parents or navigating the teenage years, we provide the tools to strengthen your partnership while fostering a loving, supportive family environment.

Blended families bring together diverse experiences and relationships, creating a beautiful tapestry of life. However, the unique challenges faced by stepfamilies require specialized support and understanding. Our relationship counselling services are designed to address the complexities of blending families, offering targeted guidance to navigate the nuances of step-parenting, sibling dynamics, and establishing a unified family identity. With a focus on open communication, respect, and patience, we help you build a strong, supportive foundation that honours each member's individuality while fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness.

Embark on your marital journey with confidence through our premarital counselling services. Designed for couples considering marriage, our sessions offer the guidance needed to build a solid foundation for your future together. By addressing key aspects of your relationship, from communication and finances to expectations and conflict resolution, we help you and your partner develop a deeper understanding and stronger bond. Our expert counsellors are here to ensure you’re both prepared for the joys and challenges of married life. Start your journey to forever on the right foot—explore how premarital counselling can fortify your commitment and enrich your partnership.

Navigate the complexities of marital life with our dedicated marriage therapy services. Tailored to address the unique challenges and issues that arise within the context of marriage, our online counselling provides the support and guidance couples need to foster a healthier, more resilient relationship. Whether you're facing communication barriers, navigating financial stress, or seeking to rekindle the spark in your partnership, our expert therapists are here to help. With a focus on mutual understanding, respect, and love, we work with you to develop strategies that promote healing, growth, and a deeper connection. Embrace the opportunity to transform your marriage into a source of strength and joy.

Separation and divorce mark profound transitions in a couple's journey, often accompanied by a wide range of emotions and challenges. We offer compassionate support for those considering or deciding to part ways, providing a space for individuals to navigate this difficult time with dignity and respect. Whether you're seeking to understand your feelings, communicate effectively through the process, or lay the groundwork for a positive future, our expert counsellors are here to guide you. We focus on facilitating a constructive dialogue, helping you and your partner find closure, and supporting any children involved through this transition.

In the landscape of modern relationships, polyamory and open relationships represent a significant shift towards embracing consensual non-monogamy (CNM). Our counselling services are specifically designed to support those who navigate these unique relationship dynamics, offering a safe, inclusive space for exploration, understanding, and growth. Whether you're new to CNM, facing challenges within your polyamorous or open relationship, or simply seeking to strengthen your connections, our expert counsellors provide tailored support that respects and honours your relationship choices. We focus on communication, boundary-setting, jealousy management, and the complexities of love and commitment in CNM contexts, ensuring that every individual feels seen, heard, and valued. Join us to navigate the joys and challenges of polyamory and open relationships with confidence and clarity, fostering healthy, fulfilling connections in all forms of love.

The world of Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM) presents a rich tapestry of relationship dynamics, each with its own complexities and structures. Our relationship counselling services are keenly focused on acknowledging and understanding the diverse forms of CNM relationships. From polyamory and open relationships to swinging and beyond, we offer specialized support tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities these arrangements bring. Our goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where individuals and partners can explore their relationship dynamics, communicate effectively, and foster healthy, fulfilling connections. Whether you're seeking guidance on managing multiple relationships, navigating emotional challenges, or strengthening bonds, our expert counsellors are here to support your journey through the intricate landscape of CNM, ensuring your relationships thrive in trust, respect, and love.

Ethical Non-Monogamy (ENM) challenges traditional relationship structures with a focus on ethics, consent, and open communication. Our counselling services are dedicated to supporting individuals and couples who explore or commit to ENM, ensuring that all parties involved navigate these relationships with integrity, respect, and understanding. We provide a non-judgmental space to discuss the nuances of consent, negotiate boundaries, manage emotions like jealousy, and cultivate honest, transparent communication. Whether you're beginning your journey into ENM, facing hurdles, or looking to deepen your existing connections, our expert guidance is tailored to meet the unique needs of non-monogamous partnerships. Embrace the complexities of ENM with our supportive, informed counselling services, paving the way for fulfilling and respectful relationships built on a foundation of clear consent and communication.

In the diverse landscape of Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM), sexual health and safety are paramount. Our relationship counselling services are dedicated to addressing the unique concerns and challenges related to sexual health within CNM relationships. We provide comprehensive guidance and support to ensure that all parties involved have the knowledge and resources to engage in safe, consensual, and fulfilling sexual experiences. From navigating conversations about sexual health to establishing practices that prioritize safety and well-being, our expert counsellors are here to assist. By fostering an environment of open communication and mutual respect, we aim to empower individuals and partners to make informed decisions that enhance their sexual health and strengthen their relationships.

Jealousy, while a common experience in both monogamous and non-monogamous relationships, can present unique challenges in the context of Consensual Non-Monogamy. Our relationship counselling services provide specialized support for managing jealousy, offering effective solutions and strategies to transform this often-difficult emotion. We focus on understanding the roots of jealousy, improving communication skills, and strengthening emotional resilience, enabling individuals and partners to navigate their feelings constructively. By fostering a culture of openness, trust, and empathy within relationships, our expert counsellors help you turn jealousy from a source of conflict into an opportunity for personal and relational growth.

In a world that is learning to embrace diversity, 2SLGBTQI+ couples face unique relationship dynamics and challenges. Our 2SLGBTQI+ couples counselling services are designed with inclusivity at the heart, ensuring that every relationship receives the understanding, respect, and specialized support it deserves. Whether you're navigating societal pressures, family dynamics, or the intricacies of your partnership, our expert counsellors are here to provide a safe, affirming space for you and your partner to grow together. We celebrate the diversity of love and are committed to helping every couple build a strong, healthy, and joyful relationship.

Our relationship counselling services are founded on the principles of inclusivity and diversity, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals and couples from all walks of life. We recognize and honour the vast spectrum of relationship styles, identities, and dynamics, ensuring that everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Whether you're in a monogamous, non-monogamous, 2SLGBTQI+ relationship, or exploring other forms of connection, our expert counsellors are here to provide tailored support that respects your unique experiences and perspectives. By fostering an atmosphere of acceptance and understanding, we aim to empower you and your partner(s) to navigate the complexities of your relationship with confidence and care.

Relationship counselling isn't just about the dynamics between partners; it's also a powerful avenue for personal growth. Our services emphasize the individual development that can occur within the context of nurturing a relationship. Through exploring relationship challenges, individuals often uncover personal strengths, areas for improvement, and new perspectives on life and love. Our expert counsellors support you in this journey of self-discovery, helping you to become more self-aware, resilient, and emotionally intelligent. By focusing on personal growth, you not only enhance your own well-being but also contribute to a healthier, more fulfilling relationship.

At the heart of our relationship counselling services lies a commitment to providing a Customized Support Plan, meticulously tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of each client or relationship. We understand that no two relationships are the same, and therefore, flexibility and personalization are key to our approach. From the initial assessment to the ongoing sessions, our expert counsellors work closely with you to develop a strategy that addresses your specific concerns, challenges, and aspirations. Whether it's navigating communication issues, rebuilding trust, or enhancing connection, our support is designed to evolve with your relationship, ensuring relevant and effective guidance every step of the way.

Understanding the intrinsic link between personal growth, self-esteem, and healthy relationship dynamics is at the core of our relationship counselling services. We acknowledge the pivotal role that self-esteem and self-worth play in fostering fulfilling and resilient relationships. Our approach is designed to support individuals in exploring and enhancing their sense of self, enabling them to bring their best to their partnerships. Through targeted online counselling, we aim to empower you to recognize your value, assert your needs, and engage in relationships with confidence and clarity. Whether you're seeking to improve existing relationships or build new ones on a foundation of strong self-esteem, our expert counsellors are here to guide and support you.

Our relationship counselling services are uniquely designed to accommodate the diverse needs of both individuals and couples. Recognizing that relationship dynamics can be complex and multifaceted, we offer specialized support tailored to the specific situation—whether you're seeking to enhance your relationship together or exploring personal growth and relationship challenges on your own. Our expert counsellors provide a supportive and nurturing environment for both couples and individuals, focusing on tailored strategies that promote understanding, healing, and growth. With a commitment to addressing the unique concerns and goals of each client, we ensure that everyone, regardless of their relationship status or challenges, receives the compassionate support and guidance needed to thrive.

Payments
Payment for private counselling is not covered under Alberta Health Care. However, most benefit plans provide coverage for therapy under Psychological Services. 

ACS service fees are guided by the Recommended Fee Schedule endorsed by the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta, which can be viewed here. Rates listed are effective as of January 1st, 2023 and are subject to change. Our administrative staff will confirm the fee schedule when you contact us.

We recommend couples and family counselling sessions are 1.5 hours in length.

Telephone consultations with clients, parents, teachers, and physicians will be charged in 15 minute increments of the therapist's hourly rate.

Formal reporting requests by clients or 3rd parties (e.g., insurance companies, lawyers) will be billed according to our fee schedule.

Please note that the fees for some of our specialized therapies may be different. We will discuss them prior to your session.

We are happy to take payment in the following forms:

• Credit Card (VISA, Mastercard, American Express)
• Internet Bank Transfer
• Direct Deposit

Third Party Billing
In some cases, our fees may be covered through and billed directly to a third party payors. In the past, we have worked with legal firms, Section B, and community not-for-profit organizations. Prior to an appointment being booked under this arrangement, the ACS accounting department will contact the third-party payor to confirm billing procedures.

Insurance
Employer Health Benefit (EHB) and Personal Health Benefit (PHB) insurance plan providers often cover mental health services. Plans provide a fixed dollar amount for services, a pooled account for "paramedical services" including psychology, or a coverage based on a percentage. You can find your specific coverage in your online account, benefits book, or by contacting your human resources department or plan provider. Some plans provide a Health Spending Account that gives the employee flexibility to cover the services they need individually.

Not every insurance plan offers direct billing and not every plan covers every type of mental health therapist, so it's important to confirm your coverage before you schedule an appointment.

Questions to ask your insurance provider are:

1. What types of clinicians (e.g. Registered Psychologists, Registered Provisional Psychologists, Canadian Certified Counsellors) do I have coverage for?
2. Does my plan offer direct billing for all clinicians?
3. Is there a maximum coverage amount (per year/lifetime)? If so, what is it?
4. When does my insurance coverage 'roll-over' or 'renew'?

Please note that only your insurance company can provide this information to you. As a service provider, we are unable to request your plan's details.

You are responsible to pay any outstanding balance that is not covered by your insurance plan.

We do all assessments and therapy sessions using video chat software, screen sharing, and remote administrational of psychological questionnaires. We follow provincial and federal legislation regarding privacy and security, and we continue to update our knowledge.

While some people prefer the experience of being in the room with the therapist during traditional in-person therapy, our clients find there are distinct advantages to online therapy.

• Accessibility: Clients with limited mobility often struggle to arrange transportation to and from their home or to navigate professional buildings that often have difficult parking and building design. Online therapy eliminates this physical and financial cost.
• Convenience: Couples seeking therapy have the added challenge to schedule sessions around two busy schedules. With online therapy, they can attend sessions even if they are in different postal codes due to work-related travel. Additionally, sessions are more easy to access when emergencies arise, even if you are not near your therapist's office.
• Economy: Scheduling therapy means budgeting the expense and time to travel to and from the location. It also can mean arranging childcare and the related travel time. Online therapy eliminates some if not all of these considerations.
• Familiarity: It is often easier to open up about difficult subject when you are more comfortable. With online therapy, you can literally attend with all the comforts of home.
• Privacy: Sometimes it is hard to discuss problems in a relationship when the person is sitting beside you. Couples therapy and Family therapy can often benefit from a little physical distance during a difficult conversation.
• Safety: Commuting is no longer a hindrance to therapy during bad weather. Icy roads and snowstorms will not cause traffic delays and won't create the backlog of appointments during the day.

• Go to our online booking page.
• Choose your service, therapist, date & time.
• Input your credit or debit card to secure booking slot.
• Send insurance details to admin@auschratcounselling.ca.
• We will send intake forms to complete before your session.
• We will call via phone or video call at session time.
• Straightforward & clear communication.
• Relax in your space & chat with your therapist.