GETTING STARTED
Flexible, guided
support to help you
get started
We understand that reaching out can feel overwhelming. You might wonder what the process looks like, whether therapy is right for you, or how to take the first step.
At It Takes Practice, getting started is designed to be simple and flexible. Whether you already know what kind of support you need, or are still figuring it out, we will help guide you through the process.
If…
… you’ve been thinking about counselling but aren’t sure where to begin
… you’re unsure what type of support would be most helpful
… you have questions about scheduling or what happens in a session
… you’d like to feel confident about your first step before committing
This page explains how to start and what to expect when you reach out.
What happens when you reach out
1 | You make contact
You can call, text, email or book online, whatever way feels best for you to begin.
2 | We respond and guide you
Our office manager will get back to you, answer questions and help figure out what kind of support might be most helpful.
3 | You’re supported from there
If you think we’re a good fit, we’ll help you take the next step. If not, we’ll point you toward other options. Either way, you’re not left guessing.
Reaching out
You can get in touch in whatever way feels easiest. We will reply to text, phone, or email. If you would rather book on your own, you can book directly through our online portal
We highly encourage you to book a free 30-minute consultation with one of our therapists to help assess fit and discuss next steps. There’s no pressure, and it’s a chance to ask questions and see whether working together feels right for you.
Booking your first session
Once you’re ready to book, you can schedule your first appointment online or contact the clinic directly. You’ll also receive a few intake forms to complete before your first session.
These forms help provide context for your therapist and outline things like confidentiality and consent. Completing them beforehand allows your first session to focus on what matters most to you.
Your first counselling session
The first session is mostly a conversation about your experiences and what brought you to counselling.
Your therapist may ask questions to better understand your challenges, current stressors, and what you hope to gain from therapy. You don’t need everything clearly figured out, part of the process is exploring what is going on, together.
The goal is for the therapist to understand your situation and determine whether working together feels like a good fit.
Moving forward
At the end of the first session, you and your therapist can discuss what ongoing support might look like.
Some people meet regularly, while others schedule sessions as needed. The pace and focus of counselling are flexible, guided by what feels helpful and manageable for you.
Therapy Outcomes
Beginning counselling can feel like a small step, but it often leads to meaningful
changes over time. While every person’s journey is unique, therapy can help you:
01
Gain clarity and
insight.
Understand patterns, triggers, and emotions that may have been difficult to identify on your own. Therapy helps you see situations more clearly and make sense of what’s been weighing on you.
02
Develop practical coping strategies.
Learn tools to manage stress, anxiety, low mood, or other challenges in your day-to-day life. These strategies help you navigate difficult moments with more confidence.
03
Improve
communication and
relationships.
Counselling can help you better express your needs and understand others, creating more meaningful and supportive connections in your personal and professional life.
04
Strengthen
emotional resilience.
Build the ability to respond to life’s challenges with flexibility, patience, and self-compassion. Over time, this resilience makes difficult experiences feel more manageable.
05
Set and maintain healthy boundaries.
Gain clarity about your limits and learn how to communicate them effectively. This supports balance in your relationships and protects your emotional wellbeing.
06
Increase self-
awareness and self-
compassion.
Therapy creates space to reflect, understand your motivations, and develop a kinder, more supportive relationship with yourself.
07
Move toward
meaningful change.
Counselling supports you in identifying goals, exploring options, and taking steps toward the life you want to live. The process is gradual, but each session contributes to long-term growth and wellbeing.
You might be wondering
1. How do I book my first appointment?
You can book directly through our secure online portal, call, text, or email the clinic.
2. How long are counselling sessions?
Most sessions are 50 minutes, though your therapist can discuss other options if needed.
3. Do I need a referral?
No, a referral is not required. You can contact the clinic and book an appointment directly.
4. Do you offer in-person and online sessions?
Yes. Sessions are available in-person in Red Deer or secure online.
5. What if I’m unsure what kind of counselling I need?
Many people reach out before knowing exactly what support is needed. You can discuss your options during the free consultation or first session.
If you’d rather reach out directly
You can get in touch in whatever way feels easiest. You can contact us by phone, text, email, or by booking directly through our online portal.
If you’d like a brief conversation before a full session, we offer a free 30-minute consultation to help assess fit and next steps.
Taking the first step doesn’t have to feel overwhelming
Counselling is about giving yourself space to pause, reflect, and begin working through what’s been weighing on you.
Whether you’re ready to book or want to chat first, we’re here to support you.