Online therapy for anxiety and stress in Alberta
When worry, overwhelm or relationship stress interferes with your daily life, you can ask for support. KP Psychological offers individual therapy by secure video across Alberta, including Edmonton and Calgary.
Marissa Whalley, Registered Psychologist, focuses on anxiety, relationship issues and stress. She sees individuals aged 16 and older.
$235 per 50-minute session with Marissa. New clients can usually start within about a week.
Ask about anxiety therapy with Marissa
What you can bring to therapy
You might be dealing with persistent worry, difficulty switching off, pressure at work, trouble sleeping, avoidance, or stress in relationships. You do not need a diagnosis to discuss what has been happening.
We explore what affects your daily life and what you want to change, rather than assuming every experience has the same cause.
How therapy can be tailored to you
Assessment comes first. Your psychologist discusses treatment options, goals and how you will review progress together.
Marissa draws on CBT, ACT and DBT skills, along with emotionally focused and attachment-based approaches. When distress is connected to painful experiences, EMDR may be considered as part of a treatment plan.
EMDR is not automatically the first choice for every anxiety concern. The approach depends on your assessment and the evidence relevant to your situation.
When anxiety and trauma overlap
If fear or distress is linked to a past experience, tell your psychologist. You can also explore trauma and PTSD therapy and EMDR therapy.
Kyle Poon works with adults, especially where anxiety connects with trauma. His fee is $250 per 50-minute session; ask about current waitlist timing.
Online sessions, fees and benefits
You need a private space, a suitable device and internet connection, and to be physically in Alberta during sessions. We discuss the setup and your questions before starting.
Ask about direct billing and check your benefits plan's limits. Fees and insurance.
Common questions
Do I need a diagnosis?
No. You can ask for help with stress or worry without a diagnosis.
What’s the difference between stress and anxiety?
Stress is usually a response to something outside you, such as a deadline or a conflict. Anxiety involves persistent, excessive worry that doesn’t go away even when there’s no clear stressor, as the American Psychological Association puts it. The two can feel alike in the body, and either is worth talking about if it’s getting in the way of your life.
What kind of therapy helps with anxiety?
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has the most research behind it for anxiety, and clinical guidelines such as the UK’s NICE guideline recommend it. Marissa also draws on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and DBT skills, and EMDR may be considered when anxiety is tied to past experiences. Your plan depends on your assessment.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on what you’re dealing with and how you respond. As a guide, NICE describes CBT for generalized anxiety as usually 12 to 15 weekly one-hour sessions, and CBT for panic disorder as about 7 to 14 hours in total. Some people need fewer sessions and some need more. Your psychologist reviews progress with you along the way.
Does online therapy work for anxiety?
Research says it does. A 2021 analysis of dozens of studies found therapy by live video worked about as well as in-person therapy, and people treated by video for anxiety, depression or PTSD showed large improvements. You’ll need a private space, a reliable connection and to be physically in Alberta for each session.
Can therapy help without medication?
For many people, yes. Clinical guidelines offer psychological therapy such as CBT as a treatment in its own right for generalized anxiety and panic disorder. Medication is a separate decision to make with your doctor, and some people use both.
Can I ask about Marissa specifically?
Yes. Mention Marissa when you contact the practice or arrange your consultation.
This practice is not an emergency service. In immediate danger, call 911. For suicide crisis support in Canada, call or text 9-8-8. Crisis support options.