Not everyone can make it to an office. Whether it's distance, a busy schedule, physical limitations, or simply a preference for the comfort of home, online counselling gives you the same quality therapy without the commute. Patterson Counselling Services offers secure video sessions for clients across Alberta, with the same trauma-focused expertise you'd get in person.
When Online Counselling Is Right for You
Online counselling works well if you live outside Red Deer, in communities like Sylvan Lake, Lacombe, Innisfail, Ponoka, Blackfalds, Leduc, Edmonton, or Calgary, and want access to specialized trauma-focused therapy.
It's also a great fit if you have mobility challenges, a demanding work schedule, caregiving responsibilities, or simply feel more comfortable talking from your own space. Many clients find they open up more easily from home.
Online counselling is effective for the same issues we treat in person: trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, and more. Research consistently shows that online therapy produces outcomes comparable to in-person sessions.
Our Online Counselling Process
The process is the same as in-person sessions, we just connect through a secure, encrypted video platform instead. We'll send you a link before your session, and all you need is a private space and a device with a camera.
Sessions are 50 minutes, typically weekly. We use the same evidence-based approaches online, including Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) when appropriate.
Your privacy and comfort are priorities. Our platform meets all Canadian privacy standards for healthcare.
The American Psychological Association explains how psychotherapy works, noting that it helps people learn more effective ways to deal with the problems in their lives, and research supports its effectiveness across delivery formats.
Online Counselling Cost
Online counselling is priced the same as in-person sessions. We discuss fees upfront so there are no surprises.
Sessions with a Registered Psychologist are covered by most employer benefits plans. We accept Alberta Blue Cross, Manulife, Sun Life, and other major providers.
Why Choose Patterson Counselling Services
Patterson Counselling Services isn't a generic online therapy platform. We're a specialized trauma-focused practice that happens to also offer online sessions. You get the same Registered Psychologist and ART Master Practitioner whether you're in our Red Deer office or connecting from home.
Our practice is women-owned and committed to accessibility in all forms, physical, geographic, and scheduling.
The National Institute of Mental Health recognizes the growing role of online and telehealth therapy, noting that technology has created new opportunities for accessible mental health treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Counselling
Is online counselling as effective as in-person sessions?
Research consistently shows that online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for most concerns, including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Many clients actually prefer it because they feel more comfortable in their own space.
What do I need for an online session?
A private space where you won't be interrupted, a stable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone (phone, tablet, or computer all work). That's it. We use a secure, encrypted video platform that meets Alberta healthcare privacy standards.
I live outside Red Deer. Can I still see you?
Yes. We serve clients anywhere in Alberta through online sessions. Whether you're in Sylvan Lake, Lacombe, Innisfail, Ponoka, Leduc, Edmonton, Calgary, or a rural community, you can access the same quality of care.
Does insurance cover online counselling the same as in-person?
In most cases, yes. Most employer benefits plans cover Registered Psychologist sessions regardless of whether they're conducted in person or by video. We recommend checking with your specific plan to confirm, and we can help you with that.
What if I'm not good with technology?
You don't need to be. If you can make a video call, you can do online counselling. We'll send you a simple link to click before your session, and we can walk you through it on the phone if needed. It's straightforward.