Welcome
Dear Colleagues
Thanks for visiting my page. Through the time that I have been practicing I have come across very valuable resources regarding therapeutic approaches, registration, associations, etc. and I would like to use this venue to share these resources with you. Feel free to share this site with other colleagues or even clients if you think they can benefit from the resources I have gathered in this site.
Everything you need to know to practice in Alberta
Insurance
Before you start your counselling practice in Alberta you need to make sure you have insurance. Most colleges and associations will require you to have a minimum 2 000 000 liability. Shop around for the best options. Your association might have some companies with which they deal on a regular basis, it is a great way to star.
Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association CCPA
The CCPA is the association that oversees most Canadian counsellors and psychotherapists. Starting with membership is a good idea and later you can decide if you continue down the path of certification. Please understand that certification and registrations are not the same things. Certification means that you have the credentials in order to practice the profession. The CCPA website is a wealth of information regarding tools, seminars, continuing education credits and much more. Also if you become a member, make sure you also register for the Alberta/NWT chapter as it is a great way to connect with colleagues and stay informed of what's happening in our province
ACTA/CCTA
The Association of Counselling Therapists of Alberta (ACTA) is on its way to becoming the College of Counselling Therapists of Alberta. This would be the association regulating your practice as a counsellor in the province. The College has not been proclaimed yet but once it does the title of counsellor will become protected and only those who meet the Entry-to-practice competencies will be allowed to use the call themselves Counselling Therapist, Addictions counsellor and Child and Youth Care counsellors.
Business license
If you are planning on opening your own private practice, you might need a license from the city of Calgary. It is a simple process but might be necessary one given the nature of our line of work. We are considered medical professionals
Supervision
Supervision is a process in which a supervisor engages with a supervisee to discuss the direction of therapy services you offer to your clients. This relationship promotes professional growth, personal reflection and self-awareness. I provide supervision for applicants looking to certified with teh CCPA and possibly in the future I might be able to offer supervision for those wanting to register with the CCTA. For more information email
Online Counselling
Online counselling has become a very convenient way to connect and help clients. However, picking up the phone or using FaceTime might not be all there is to it. Inform yourself regarding privacy and client protection laws so that you are compliant (PHIPA, PIPEDA, FOIP, etc.)
Attending a seminar or a presentation might be a good idea and you could even possibly use it as a continuing education credit :)