Question 1

How do you approach therapy with clients?

Accepted Answer

As a Registered Psychologist and Certified Sensorimotor Psychotheraipst, my approach to therapy is heavily informed by Sensorimotor Psychotherapy principles, respecting the inherent intelligence of human systems. Healing is seen as an internally driven process, supported through care, collaboration, and attunement.

I adopt an integrative, whole-person perspective, recognizing the interplay between mind, body, emotions, relationships, and meaning. Distress is explored within the context of nervous system functioning, life experience, and relational history.

My therapeutic stance is respectful and collaborative, encouraging growth through awareness, curiosity, and embodied experience.

Mindfulness and presence are central, supporting regulation, insight, and integration across cognitive, emotional, and somatic levels.

Each therapeutic relationship is unique, fostering new ways of being through authentic connection.

Question 2

What presenting concerns do you treat?

Accepted Answer

I treat conditions such as anxiety, trauma, attachment wounds, stress (including challenges and changes), burnout, and caregiver stress.

Clients often seek out services or are referred to me for somatic based therapy to help in regulation of the nervous system (stabilization) and for exploration and transformation of wounds, core beliefs, and behavioural or relational strategies that do not serve them (processing).

While some clients specify a type of anxiety or a specific trauma, a family of origin concern, or cumulative stressors, others arrive with a general sense of what they would like to see change or a sense of malaise.

Some of the common concerns clients will speak about when they first connect can be found on this page.(https://www.waller.pro/commonpresentingconcerns)

Question 3

Are you a trauma therapist?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I am a Registered Psychologist and Trauma work is a core part of my professional training and practice. I’m fully certified in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SP), a body-based approach developed for treating developmental wounds, trauma, and experiences that overwhelm a person’s capacity to cope or integrate events. Alongside SP, I’m trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), EMDR, and Trauma Regulation Integration Process (TRIP). Together, these approaches allow me to support clients in understanding their nervous system, restoring regulation, processing trauma and wounds for change, and building resilience in collaborative ways that prioritize pacing.

Question 4

What is perinatal therapy?

Accepted Answer

Perinatal therapy refers to psychological treatment during pregnancy and the postpartum period, delivered by clinicians with specific training and experience in perinatal mental health.  My own experience in this area developed early in my career through clinical work in reproductive mental health in hospital-based services, and then in private practice, supporting clients with antenatal anxiety, postpartum depression, pregnancy and early infant loss, pregnancy after loss, fertility loss, and birth-related trauma.

Engaging in therapy for perinatal and reproductive mental health concerns with a clinician who has specific training, education, and experience may be important because these issues are often clinically distinct, high-impact, and time-sensitive.

Question 5

Do you offer faith-based counselling?

Accepted Answer

Like many psychologists, I recognize that faith and spirituality can be meaningful aspects of a person’s overall well-being. In Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, one of the principles informing practice is an awareness of mind–body–spirit wholeness.

I do not provide pastoral and do not hold specialized training in any particular religious or spiritual tradition. However, I welcome clients in bringing their faith, spiritual beliefs, or practices into therapy in ways that aim to feel supportive, respectful, and integrated with bio-psycho-social care.

Question 6

How is somatic or body-based therapy different from talk therapy?

Accepted Answer

Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, a somatic or body-based therapy, looks and feels like talk therapy much of the time; however, we work with a focus on "here and now" body sensations or impulses and a felt sense of emotions, beliefs, or patterns.  The body holds an implicit narrative - the meaning that was made, for example,  during trauma, wounds, or in relationships - we bring this narrative into the room to explore what is underneath the explicit narrative - what shapes meaning, belief, feelings, actions, sense of self, and relationship with others and the world.  In this way, the client can notice, become aware, and allow agency and choice to re-emerge through a well attuned process of relationship.

Question 7

What therapy approach is right for me?

Accepted Answer

Every client is unique; however, every client has a nervous system.  My primary approach keeps the somatic, implicit narrative of the body in view.  But, we will choose together what fits best as sessions unfold, whether somatic therapy, CBT, ART, or, more likely, an integrative blend.
​

Question 8

Are there any conditions you do not treat?

Accepted Answer

I refer clients to other specialists if their primary concerns include ADD/ADHD, addiction, body image or eating disorders, or OCD.

Question 9

Who are your typical clients?

Accepted Answer

My clients come from diverse backgrounds but share common goals: to overcome, heal, and thrive. Many seek alternatives to traditional CBT therapy, preferring my primary modalities of "bottom up" somatic interventions.

I work with individuals processing anxiety, trauma, attachment wounds and unhelpful core beliefs, relational concerns, and perinatal mental health including grief and loss.

My clients include professionals in fields such as healthcare, law, education, commerce, and more. They range from students and parents to business owners and employees from various industries. All are welcome.

My clients are 18+.

Question 10

How long is treatment, typically?

Accepted Answer

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all timeline for therapy. The length and frequency of treatment depend on your needs, goals, and what’s happening in your life.

When symptoms feel acute or overwhelming:
Some clients choose to attend weekly or bi-weekly sessions, when possible. This phase focuses on stabilization, safety, and building internal and external supports, and may occur while you’re also connecting with other resources. This stage can last several weeks to a few months, depending on the duration and intensity of symptoms.

After stabilization:
As things begin to feel more manageable, many clients transition to sessions every 2–3 weeks. This phase focuses on processing experiences, developing insight, and making intentional changes. Between sessions, clients practice and apply strategies that are collaboratively developed in session.

Ongoing or maintenance support:
Some clients continue therapy weekly, while others find that monthly sessions are most supportive. Monthly sessions are often used as maintenance, helping clients sustain progress, check in, and navigate new stressors as they arise.

Throughout treatment, we regularly revisit your goals and adjust the pace and frequency to ensure therapy remains supportive and responsive to your needs.

Question 11

Do you offer evening or weekend sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I offer some evening appointments and Saturday spots. Please contact me to check availability.

Question 12

Where are your in-person and online sessions held?

Accepted Answer

For in-person sessions, we will meet at the United Health Centres Building, #204, 7609 - 109 Street, in the Queen Alexandra Neighbourhood of Edmonton, Alberta. For online sessions, we will connect via Janeapp.

Question 13

What is your availability like?

Accepted Answer

Weekdays and Some Evenings & Saturdays.

Each year, I engage in regular professional development, including consultation with other professionals, training, or assisting in others' learning.  In addition to that, I am a primary caregiver to a family member.  Therefore, it is important for clients to know that my schedule availability may change and a session may be moved (or cancelled, if moving the session is not an option).  Usually, I can see a client within a few days of any cancellations.

If there is a day of the week and time of day that works best for you, please let me know and we can look at dedicating a series of those spots to you for your convenience.

Question 14

What can I expect in my first session?

Accepted Answer

You are welcome to come comfortable - we engage in session in the way your body feels most at home.  You may choose to sit on the couch, stand, or walk or pace around freely.

When you arrive in the therapy room, we explore temperature and lighting for comfort, we explore the Informed Consent and the LIMITS of Confidentiality and then we explore what you feel comfortable sharing.  If that feels too broad, a suggestion is to start at the point at which you thought, "I could use some support."

We may talk through some psychoeducation and maybe some personal history and explore what you would like to experience shift or change internally and or in your relationships or life.

We begin to wrap up around the 45 minute mark.  At this time, we summarize our session and then collaborate on a suggestion for focus between sessions.

Feel free to bring a (non-alcoholic) beverage.  There isn't anything else you will need for session.

I have tissues - these are not to stop tears, just to keep clothes dry.  And, our rooms are designed to be soundproof  (you are welcome to laugh, cry, or curse).

This is a Come-As-You-Are environment.

Question 15

What are the parking options?

Accepted Answer

You can find underground parking available for a fee. There are also three stalls at the back of the building offering 1-hour free parking, located immediately to the left of the underground parking entrance. Please avoid parking in spots allocated for the seniors' lodge on the east side. Additionally, there is free residential parking east of 109 Street.

Question 16

If I Bike or Bus?

Accepted Answer

If you are on bicycle - the city has provided a lock-stand on the avenue (southwest corner of the building / northeast corner of the intersection).

Bus Stop # outside the building on 109st heading north: 2861

Question 17

Do you offer direct billing and what are your fees?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer direct billing to some insurance providers. The fee for a 50-minute session is $265. This rate is above the standard fee guideline set by the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta, reflecting advanced training and specialized clinical expertise.

Question 18

Do you offer a sliding scale or reduced rate?

Accepted Answer

I offer a limited 12 (sessions) in 12 (months) for clients who do not have insurance and who are experiencing acute perinatal mental health concerns or who are seniors over the age of 65.  A telephone consultation is required in order to ensure the time-limited nature of this offering is expected to be sufficient and to explore presenting concern and fit for therapy.

These spots are limited and may not always be immediately available.

As well, I have a Masters of Counselling Student under my supervision who begins in March 2026 - the rate for service will be $60 per session for short-term, time-limited therapy.  A telephone consult with myself and the student is required.

Question 19

Can I bring my dog?

Accepted Answer

Yes!  Your dog is welcomed the therapy room, creating a comfortable and supportive environment for you.

My colleague, Cheryl, of Kalin Psychological, from whom I rent my office, often has her Boxer, Thor, present as well.

If you feel uncomfortable around dogs, just let us know beforehand, and we will happily arrange for Thor to be in the spare office during your arrival and departure times to ensure a stress-free experience for you.

Please note that if you have dog allergies, there is certainly some exposure in the office, so please consider your risk and comfort.  Otherwise, we take care to maintain a clean and safe space and a HEPA filter dyson fan is available in the therapy room.

This approach reflects our client-centered and somatic focus, supporting your well-being in every thoughtful detail.

Question 20

Where can I grab a coffee?

Accepted Answer

Our building used to be home to The Woodrack Cafe and they have moved into Old Strathcona.  So, a coffee, tea, or latte is no longer available on the premises.

You are welcome to bring a beverage, heat up a tea in our office, or there are a few options within driving distance en route to or near the office.  A little self-care as a pre-therapy or post-session ritual.

Cafe Mosaics (Whyte ave) (https://maps.app.goo.gl/fXuKRYxhCPNCpv7v7)(street parking, best for walk-in) 700m north of the office.

Kaffa Roaster and Studio (https://maps.app.goo.gl/Z3pejJqDxQo6rTDy8)(limited parking, lots of stairs - fabulous coffee) 2.4km north of the office

La Bosco Bakery (79 ave & 104 st)  (https://maps.app.goo.gl/djJHgPffZCkVYiuMA)(relatively good parking) 1.2km east from the office

Mood Cafe (76 ave & 115 st) (https://maps.app.goo.gl/znYLZmDdm5nvS3y18)(relatively good parking) 1.1km west of the office

Woodrack Cafe (Whyte ave) (https://maps.app.goo.gl/B5HKGq3ekM2aPSzCA)(street parking, best for walk-in) 1.7km northeast of the office

Question 21

Is the office wheel-chair accessible?

Accepted Answer

The building and the office is wheel-chair accessible as is the therapy room; however, the washroom on-site may or may not be suitable for wheel-chair use.  Please contact so we can discuss needs and specs.

Question 22

Are you a Physician and Family Supports Program (PFSP) Provider?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I treat medical students, residents, and physicians who are approved for treatment through PFSP.  I have been a provider with PFSP since 2019.

Question 23

Are you a WCB Provider?

Accepted Answer

I am contracted with WCB and can see clients who have suffered a psychological work-place injury.  In this way, my clients do not have to seek out a different provider should they experience an accident.  I also see clients who are referred to me directly by WCB.

The informed consent, reporting, and expectations for treatment and timeliness are somewhat different as the focus is reducing symptoms in order to return to work.  As well, WCB requires evidence-based interventions specific to the type of injury as suggested by the APA which means I treat clients, most often, using M-CBT and ART.

Question 24

What happens if we have differing social views?

Accepted Answer

From a Rogerian perspective, differing experiences, values, and views are expected and meaningful.

In an increasingly polarized world, many people are understandably cautious about exposing their thoughts, political leanings, identities, values, or questions for fear of judgment or relational rupture.

My responsibility as a psychologist is not to eliminate difference, demand disclosure, or impose particular views. At the same time, when a client explicitly wishes to examine, soften, or change aspects of their own beliefs or patterns, my role is to support that process with care, grounded in the client’s goals, values, and consent, while remaining empathically attuned, non-defensive, and professionally accountable.

This professional stance is also consistent with self-determination principles, which emphasize that meaningful and lasting change emerges most reliably when it is aligned with a person’s own values and sense of agency.

In short, my role is to offer a psychologically safe, respectful space for exploration that honors difference, autonomy, and client-led change.

Question 25

Is there anything else I should know?

Accepted Answer

Flora & Fauna: Our office is scent-sensitive, though not scent-free.   As dogs frequent the office, please let us know if you have any concerns, requests, or needs around this.

Illness: Please do not come to the office if you are ill as some of our clients are medically sensitive.

Shoes: Many clients ask if they should remove their shoes when they arrive.  If your shoes or boots are very obviously muddy, wet, or snowy, there is a rubber mat near the door where they may be left, but if you can simply wipe and walk, feel free to bring your shoes or boots into the room.

Bike/Bus: If you are on bicycle - the city has provided a lock-stand on the avenue (southwest corner of the building / northeast corner of the intersection).  The Bus Stop # outside the building on 109st heading north: 2861

Who is Kim and why might she call me? My office is located inside the office marked Kalin Centre, and our Administrative Assistant, Kim, will be pleased to greet and meet you upon arrival - she answers all the billing questions and can show you where our washroom is and how to make a hot cup of tea.  She may be the one to call you to explore benefits, payments, or appointments.

Question 26

Are there any videos you suggest for anyone exploring therapy with you?

Accepted Answer

I have not produced any videos, however, I have a few "go-to" videos I often suggest to those who are curious.

Please Note: Themes or Mentions of Mental Health, Assault, Trauma, Traumatic Loss, Treatment.

Sensorimotor Psychotherapy related

The following video is publicly available on the Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute’s official YouTube channel, as well as on the Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute's official website home-page, and is shared here for educational reference: Kekuni Minton, PhD, founding trainer and co-author of Trauma and the Body, describes How SP Shapes (https://sensorimotorpsychotherapy.org/)his work.

The following video is publicly available on the PsychAlive official Youtube channel: Pat Ogden, PhD, a pioneer in somatic psychology, the developer of the Sensorimotor Psychotherapy method, and the first author of the book Trauma and the Body: A Sensorimotor Approach to Psychotherapy, speaks about SP: ...on the Sensorimotor Approach to Resolve Trauma. (https://youtu.be/7cben51_kEg?si=Bt1m3lxIvtgBlB-S)

Accelerated Resolution Therapy related

The following video is publicly available on the TedX Talks official YouTube channel and is shared here for educational reference: The ART of Rapid Recovery (https://youtu.be/vP7dx03arxI?si=5QqLFjQK6nZzK16O)| Laney Rosenzweig

Trauma Regulation Integration Process (T.R.I.P.) related

The following video is publicly available on the Dr. Fred Moss, Undoctor Reset official YouTube channel and is shared here for educational reference: THH107—Monique Hoving-Smeets: GodSmacked with One Eye Open (https://youtu.be/oZDl_uSygm8?si=FPpc7iiqIwnhV87d)

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FROM YOUR LOCATION OR IN OURS

Get in touch

FROM YOUR LOCATION
OR IN OURS