Video Sessions

During the COVID-19 pandemic, psychologists continued to meet in person with their clients as we are considered essential health care providers. However, in response to demand, we also became very expert in delivering quality care via secure telehealth platforms and we in fact continue to offer video sessions. Many clients appreciate the convenience of this option when they are unable to come to the office in person due to scheduling difficulties, family demands, illness, or possibly they have moved elsewhere within the province. While I always enjoy having clients to my office, if you believe video would work better in your circumstance, please ask us to set this up for you.

About Dr. Joan Hillson, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D., Registered Psychologist

Are you a First Responder, Veteran, or member of the public looking for experienced help with stress, anger, insomnia, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, grief, trauma/PTSD? I have a successful private practice specializing in services for adults (individuals and couples). For over 20 years, I have provided therapy and assessment (including for Veterans Affairs) to civilians and members of the RCMP, Calgary Police Service and other law enforcement agencies as well as for firefighters, EMS, and Victims Services. I do not work directly for any of the agencies above, but rather am a recognized specialist in this field and am very honoured that most of my referrals come through word of mouth.

I also provide therapy to couples utilizing the empirically supported Emotion Focused Therapy approach (advanced training completed), I treat other health care providers, and am involved in training new psychologists. Currently, my intern, Ms. Kanika Dewan (www.resiliencepsychology.ca) is available to see new clients without a wait time and at a lower fee (see Fees below). Finally, I regularly consult with and am invited to provide customized education and wellness presentations to various agencies and groups in Canada and the United States. I also have additional clinicians on site who are available to provide services to clients (adults, children, youth and families) for a wide range of psychological issues, including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, anger, addiction, eating disorders, personality disorders (including BPD), educational/school issues, parenting, separation/divorce, grief, trauma, PTSD, et cetera.

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Services

Clients seek treatment from me for a variety of concerns, including: Depression ● Anxiety ● Stress ● Anger ● Abuse ● Trauma ● PTSD ● Veterans Issues (including VAC assessments) ● Insomnia ● Suicidal Thinking ● Addictions ● Risk Factor Modification ● Coping with Mental Illness ● Relationship Difficulties ● Grief ● Infertility ● Pregnancy Loss ● Spiritual Issues ● Rehabilitation/Return-to-work Planning

In treating clients, I use a variety of treatment modalities, tailored to the client depending upon their needs. Among the treatment methods I use are: Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure, Insight-Oriented Therapy, Supportive Psychotherapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, as well as Attachment-based and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).

My practice provides specialized treatments for Adults (both individuals and couples) although I can refer to other clinicians in our clinic for the assessment and treatment of children, youth and families.

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Fees

Fees for most services are $200 (increasing to $220 November 1) per 50 minute session. Interns’ fees are $190/50 minutes. We provide direct billing to your insurance plan or employer, if applicable. Clients are responsible for paying any amounts not covered by insurance or employers at the end of each session. Payment is accepted by e-transfer, cheque or cash, only. No credit card or debit transactions are available. Electronic receipts are issued for insurance and/or income tax purposes.

Accepted Insurance Plans

Blue Cross ● Canada Life ● Green Shield Canada ● Medavie Blue Cross (for RCMP and Veterans) and others. Please inquire about direct billing if you are covered by a plan not listed here.

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Forms

Here you will find an Intake Form as well as a Consent Form. The two-page Intake Form asks you to provide some basic information about yourself as well as a brief description of what brings you to see Dr. Hillson. The Consent Form (also two pages) explains in detail what you can expect in receiving services from Dr. Hillson. If you have made an initial appointment with Dr. Hillson, these forms will be sent directly to you and can be returned electronically. If you do not wish to complete forms at home, please come to your appointment 10 minutes early and we will provide the forms for you to complete at the office before your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my information kept confidential when I see Dr. Hillson?

Dr. Hillson is a member of the College of Alberta Psychologists and is governed by the Health Profession Act, and as such she must adhere to a strict code of ethics and professional standards. Under legislation, ethics and standards, client information and privacy are taken very seriously. No information about clients is released unless they provide written consent or the release of information is required by law. Detailed information regarding confidentiality and privacy can be found in Dr. Hillson’s Consent Form.

Does Dr. Hillson have appointments evenings or weekends?

Dr. Hillson is available Monday-Friday (excluding holidays) from 8:30am – 4:30pm. She also offers a limited number of 7:15am appointments. Her intern and other clinicians in her office are available Saturdays and some evenings.

Does Dr. Hillson offer a Sliding Scale or reduced fees if I do not have insurance?

Dr. Hillson does not offer a sliding scale although her intern does offer reduced fees. Sliding Scale Services are available in Airdrie through Community Links (see nrvcl.ab.ca)

What should I do in an emergency when I do not have an appointment right away with Dr. Hillson?

Does Dr. Hillson provide a free initial session so that I can see if she is the right psychologist for me?

Dr. Hillson is happy to have a brief (10-15 minute) telephone consultation with you where you can describe what you are seeking services for and ask any questions you may have. In Dr. Hillson’s experience, most potential clients are able to determine from that call if Dr. Hillson will be a good fit for them.

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