A client guide from Core Psychology
Welcome
guide
Getting the most from therapy, whether this is your first session or you’ve done therapy before.
Starting therapy is a brave and meaningful step. This guide will help you get the most from your experience with us.
IN THIS GUIDE
- 01Showing up as you are
- 02Between sessions
- 03Session details
- 04What to expect from us
- 05Common questions
New to Core? If you’d like, start with a complimentary 15-minute phone consult, and see our fees page for rates and insurance.
01 · Showing up as you are
There’s no right way to show up.
You don’t have to have everything figured out. Come as you are, messy, uncertain or clear-eyed.
Therapy works best when you’re honest, even if that means saying, “I don’t know what I feel.” It is a process, and it’s normal to feel unsure at the beginning.
You may not feel better right away, but with time and consistency, change happens. Give yourself permission to take it one step at a time.
Be yourself
Honesty matters more than having the right words. Bring whatever is true for you today.
Give it time
Therapy is a process. Trust it, and let change build with consistency.
Speak up
If something isn’t working, bring it up. Your therapist welcomes feedback, whether you want more structure, a different approach or feel stuck. Your voice matters.
Practise self-compassion
Healing isn’t linear. Some weeks feel like breakthroughs and others feel heavy. Be kind to yourself through both.
02 · Between sessions
Getting the most from the time between sessions
Your therapist is here to walk with you, not ahead of you.
Reflect
Growth often happens between appointments. Take a moment to reflect on what came up in session.
Notice
Pay attention to patterns, reactions and moments of insight as your week unfolds.
Jot it down
Keep a few notes to share next time, so nothing important gets lost.
Practise
Use any between-session practices your therapist offers. Small steps add up.
Ask questions
You can always ask about the process of therapy, your treatment plan or goals, what a diagnosis means if it’s relevant, or anything you’re unsure or curious about.
03 · Session details
The practical side, made simple.
- TIMING
Sessions are typically 50 or 80 minutes.
- CANCELLATIONS
Please provide 48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule.
- PAYMENT & INSURANCE
Payments are handled through Jane by our admin team, with receipts provided to submit to your benefits provider for reimbursement.
- VIRTUAL OPTIONS
We offer secure video sessions when you need them.
- PRIVACY & BOUNDARIES
What you share stays private, with a few safety exceptions your therapist will explain. Boundaries help make therapy a safe space, so please ask about anything that feels unclear.
04 · Final words
You’re not alone here. Let’s begin.
Therapy can be hard, beautiful, frustrating, transformative and everything in between.
Whatever brings you to us, we’re honoured to be part of your journey, and we’ll be here to support you every step of the way.
05 · Common questions
Common questions before your first session.
What happens in the first session?
Your first session focuses on getting to know you, what brings you in and what you hope will change. There is no pressure to share everything at once, and you can go at your own pace.
How long are sessions?
Sessions are typically 50 or 80 minutes, depending on your clinician and what you book. See our fees page for session rates.
Is what I share in therapy private?
Yes. What you share stays private, with a few safety exceptions that your therapist will explain at the start. If anything about privacy or boundaries feels unclear, you are always welcome to ask.
What if my therapist doesn’t feel like the right fit?
Tell us. If you feel you would benefit from a different style, approach or clinician, we will help you find the right fit. You getting the care that is most helpful for you is our priority. You can also meet the team.
Can I have sessions online?
Yes. We offer secure video sessions, so you can attend from home when that works better for you. Learn more about online counselling at Core.
Ready when you are.
If you’d like, start with a complimentary 15-minute phone consult. We’ll answer your questions and help you find the clinician who is the right fit for you.
Have questions about cost? Our fees page covers session rates and insurance, and you can meet the team to find the right fit.
Call or text 403.488.8912 · info@corepsychology.com
Monday to Friday, 9am to 7pm · Saturday, 9am to 3pm