About HEAL Psychology and 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 trauma/PTSD, stress, anger, insomnia, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, grief, or moral injury? I have a successful private practice providing services in our adults only clinic, and we pride ourselves on our specialized expertise in the assessment and treatment of Police and Military clients. For over 20 years, I have served civilians and sworn members of the RCMP, Calgary Police Service and other law enforcement agencies as well as firefighters, EMS, Corrections, and veterans through Veterans Affairs. 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 also involved in training new psychologists. Currently, we have four psychologists at HEAL Psychology and often one of our interns or other psychologists is available to see new clients without a lengthy wait time. 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.

---

Services

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

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

HEAL Psychology provides specialized treatments for Adults (both individuals and couples) and we can refer to other clinicians in the community for the assessment and treatment of children, youth and families.

---

Fees

Fees for most services follow the Psychologists of Alberta Association Recommended Fee Schedule and are $220 per 50 minute session. Longer sessions are available and the fee will be discussed with you in advance. 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

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

---

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.

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. Interns and other psychologists at HEAL Psychology are available Saturdays and some evenings.

Does Dr. Hillson offer virtual sessions?

In response to demand for virtual sessions during the COVID-19 pandemic, we became very expert in delivering quality care via secure telehealth platforms and we 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 or reside elsewhere within Alberta. While we always enjoy having clients come to our clinic, if you believe video or telephone would work better in your circumstance, please ask us to set this up for you.

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 interns at HEAL Psychology may offer reduced fees in limited circumstances. 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.

---

Contact Us