Online couples therapy with Marissa Whalley
Explore support for communication, connection, recurring conflict and marital or premarital concerns with a Registered Psychologist.
Marissa Whalley, MC, R.Psych, is based in Calgary and offers couples therapy by secure video across Alberta, including Edmonton. Both partners need to be physically in Alberta during sessions.
$235 per 50-minute couples session. New clients can usually start within about a week.
What couples can work on
- Conversations that repeatedly become arguments
- Feeling distant or disconnected
- Stress during life changes
- Trust, closeness and expectations
- Marital or premarital concerns
You can ask about support before deciding whether couples therapy fits your relationship.
Marissa's approach
Marissa has completed Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 2 training. She also draws on emotionally focused and attachment-based approaches.
Early sessions focus on understanding your relationship, each person's concerns and what you hope will change. Marissa discusses assessment, treatment options and shared goals with you.
Safety and suitability come first
If there are threats, violence, coercion or fear in the relationship, ask for individual support and a safety assessment before assuming joint therapy is appropriate. Suitability is discussed privately with a clinician.
For urgent help, see crisis and urgent support. In immediate danger, call 911.
Sessions and coverage
Sessions are 50 minutes by secure video. Find a private place where you can speak freely. Ask about joining from separate locations and how the assessment will be arranged.
The fee is $235. Benefits plans differ in how they cover couples sessions; confirm coverage with your insurer and ask the practice about direct billing. Fees and insurance details.
Common questions
Does couples therapy work?
For many couples, yes. A 2012 review of the research found couple therapy helps about 70% of couples who take part, with results comparable to individual therapy and far better than no treatment. The review names emotionally focused therapy as one of two approaches with the strongest evidence. Marissa draws on emotionally focused and attachment-based approaches, as well as the Gottman Method.
What if my partner isn’t ready to come?
You can still get support. Individual therapy can help you understand your side of the pattern and what you need. If your partner decides to join later, talk with Marissa about the options.
Is couples therapy only for couples in crisis?
No. Couples come to work on communication, closeness, stress during life changes or plans for marriage, not only when things are falling apart. Marissa also works with premarital couples.
Do you work with LGBTQ+ couples?
Yes. LGBTQ+ couples are welcome, and both of our psychologists are LGBTQ+ allies.
Will my benefits cover couples sessions?
It depends on your plan. Before you start, ask your insurer whether couples sessions with a Registered Psychologist are covered and whose benefits to claim under. We’ll confirm direct billing before your first session.
Start with a free phone consultation
Contact the practice and mention that you are interested in couples therapy with Marissa. The free 15-minute phone consultation gives you a chance to ask about approach, current availability and next steps.
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.