Consent Preferences

Walking Together Towards Empowered Living

At Through the Woods, we ensure that no one has to navigate their journey alone, walking beside clients every step of the way toward a life full of possibility and progress.

We're your cheerleaders through the ups and downs of life. We're here to listen, really listen, and to walk with you every step of the way. We're all about celebrating your wins and giving you the tools to keep on winning, even after you've left our rooms.

At Through the Woods, we're not just about talking, we’re about doing—doing what it takes to help you live the life you're aiming for. We come along side you for change, for progress, and not just getting through the woods, but coming out the other side stronger. With us, you'll never walk alone.

Our therapists embody our core values, guiding you through challenges, celebrating your achievements, and offering support for your journey.

Equipping you with the tools to shift old beliefs and establish new, healthy patterns.

Empowerment

Through listening and understanding, we connect deeply, showing genuine care. 

Empathy

Providing practical strategies to reach your goals and create lasting, meaningful change. 

Growth

In a supportive, open environment, we meet you exactly where you are. 

Acceptance

We foster strong therapeutic bonds, creating a space where you're safe to open up. 

Connection

Meet Our Team of Therapists

Michelle is the Founder of Through The Woods and a Registered Psychologist in Alberta. Her journey into psychology was fueled by both her academic pursuits and personal challenges. She earned her Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from City University of Seattle’s Calgary Campus, launching her career with a heartfelt mission to make a difference.

She began her career helping children and teens with behavioral disorders in non-profit settings, eventually moving to private practice in 2019. Her vision was to create a place where therapy embodies a partnership that celebrates each individual's victories and equips them with lasting strategies for success. Michelle and her team stand as allies, committed to listening intently and walking alongside their clients through every high and low.

Founder & Registered Psychologist 

Michelle Poon

michelle's services

Michelle provides individual, group, and family counselling to children, adolescents, and adults with a range of different challenges. She has been trained to conduct assessments with adults to identify problems such as ADHD, learning disabilities, and mental health conditions. Michelle offers clients skillful and practical strategies aimed at cultivating real change.

Michelle's has ample experience working with the following areas of challenge:

  • Anger Management
  • Anxiety
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Behavioral Issues
  • Conduct Disorder
  • Depression
Emotional Regulation
Grief and Loss
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
  • Parenting Skills
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Social Skills
  • Self-Esteem 
Self-Confidence 
Trauma

michelle's training

Michelle has formal training in:

  • Adult Assessments
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
  • UCLA Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS)
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Michelle also draws from a number of other evidence-based therapeutic modalities including play-based approaches, Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and other trauma-informed techniques.

michelle's areas of service

Alberta
Quebec
New Brunswick
Nova Scotia
Yukon
Northwest Territories

Stephanie, a warm and caring Registered Psychologist, has been offering her expertise in counselling for over eight years. With a background in Psychology and a deep understanding of early childhood education, she creates a nurturing environment for clients to overcome obstacles and find more fulfilling ways to live. Stephanie's approach is all about working together to discover your strengths and move towards your goals, using a blend of therapeutic techniques tailored just for you. Whether it's through individual or couple sessions, or even playful methods for younger ones, she's dedicated to helping you thrive. Welcoming to everyone, Stephanie is committed to providing respectful, inclusive support for all her clients. Stephanie welcomes clients from all backgrounds, provides culturally responsive and trauma-informed counselling, and is a LGBTQ+ ally.

Registered Psychologist 

Stephanie

stephanie's services

Stephanie currently offers in-person and virtual sessions on Mondays and Thursdays during the day. Sunday sessions may also be available upon request – please email s.sikora@throughthewoods.ca to inquire about Sunday availability.

Stephanie offers individual counselling for adults (18+) and children/youth (ages 6-17) in the following areas:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Stress Management
  • Life Transitions
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
  • Insomnia & Sleep Difficulties
  • Boundary Setting & Communication Skills
  • Attachment Styles & Healthy Relationships
  • Self-esteem & Self Identity
  • Values Exploration & Achieving Goals
  • Healthy Relationships
  • Parenting Skills

She also offers relationship counselling for couples in the following areas:

  • Pre-Marital Counselling
  • Communication & Conflict Management
  • Parenthood
  • Attachment Styles
  • Love Languages
  • Life Transitions

stephanie's areas of service

Alberta
New Brunswick
Nova Scotia
Nunavut

Amy is a Provisional Registered Psychologist in Alberta. She obtained both her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and Masters Degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Regina.

Amy started her career supporting people in the community through not-for-profit organizations, and then moved into supporting students at the University of Regina. In 2018, Amy moved to Alberta to continue her journey of becoming a Psychologist.

In Amy’s spare time, she can be found at the hockey rink or the golf course with her kids. She loves reading, gardening, meditation, hanging out with her two dogs, and going for hikes in the mountains chasing waterfalls.

Registered Provisional Psychologist

Amy

Amy's services

Amy has been providing counselling services for 7 years. She works with her clients collaboratively from a strengths based, client centered approach. Amy aims to provide a safe space for clients to focus on their healing work and wellness goals. She welcomes clients from all backgrounds and is an LGBTQ+ ally. Amy tailors her therapeutic approaches but draws from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness Based Therapies.

Amy's therapeutic approaches are:

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
  • Solution Focused
  • Person Centered

Amy's areas of experience are:

  • Addictions
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Anger Management
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Developmental Disorders
  • Family Conflict
  • Intellectual Disability
  • Learning Disorders
  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
  • Parenting Skills
  • Social Challenges
  • Stress Management

Amy's areas of service

Albera

Peter is dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with understanding and effective treatment. With a deep passion for facilitating growth and healing, Peter specializes in supporting clients struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). His therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based techniques from Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), providing clients with practical tools to manage symptoms and cultivate resilience.

With a Master's Degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Calgary and over a decade of experience as a Registered Psychologist, Peter has honed his expertise in addressing a wide range of mental health concerns. He believes in the power of ongoing self-reflection and skill-building to promote lasting change, and he is committed to creating a safe and supportive therapeutic environment for every client.

Registered Psychologist

Peter

Peter's services

Peter understands the complex interplay of emotions and experiences that contribute to mental health difficulties, and he approaches each client with empathy and compassion. Whether you're seeking individual therapy or couples counseling, Peter is here to support you on your journey to improved well-being. 

Peter's therapeutic approaches include:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

Peter offers counselling in the following areas:

  • Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Anger Management 
  • Behavioral Issues
  • Chronic Impulsivity
  • Coping Skills 
  • Emotional Disturbance
  • Mood Disorders 
  • Personality Disorders 
  • Relationship Issues 
  • Self-Esteem
  • Self-Harming 
  • Stress
  • Trauma and PTSD 
  • Thinking Disorders

Peter's areas of service

Alberta

Jenny is a Canadian Certified Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. She holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. Jenny has also completed a Bachelor of Social Work at the University of Regina and Bachelor of Arts at University of Saskatchewan.

During Jenny’s work in human service, Jenny has worked with children, youth, families, individuals with intellectual disabilities and seniors. This includes one-on-one counselling, school, residential care, childcare, and long-term care.

Canadian Certified Counsellor

Jenny

Jenny's services

Jenny is committed to creating a safe space for her clients to focus on their counselling goals. She draws from a number of interventions, including cognitive behavioral therapy, person centered therapy, and solution focused therapy. Jenny welcomes clients from all backgrounds and is a LGBTQ+ ally.

As a Certified Canadian Counsellor, Jenny is able to provide services across Canada.

Jenny's therapeutic approaches include:


  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT)
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Solution Focused Therapy (SFT)
  • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
  • Mindfulness

Jenny offers counselling in the following areas:

  • Stress & Anxiety
  • Self-Esteem & Self-Image
  • Sleep
  • Depression
  • Behavioral Issues
  • Self Harm
  • Transgender Care
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Communication
  • Suicidal Ideation

Jenny's areas of service

Alberta
Saskatchewan
Manitoba
Ontario
Quebec
Newfoundland & Labrador
New Brunswick
Nova Scotia
Prince Edward Island
Yukon
Northwest Territories
Nunavut

Melissa is currently a master's level practicum student, who is qualified to practice onsite under the clinical supervision of an approved supervisor. She is currently completing her Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University, and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Mount Royal University.

Melissa has completed Trans Affirming Network training, as well as trainings in Public Safety and Emergency Services Victim Services.

Counselling Psychology Intern

Melissa

melissa's services

Melissa offers a welcoming, safe, collaborative, and non-judgmental counselling space, where she aspires to provide an integrative approach, to best fit the needs of her clients. She draws from a number of evidence-based therapeutic interventions, including cognitive behavioural therapy, person-centered therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy; as well as art and play-based techniques. Additionally, she incorporates the biopsychosocial model to help understand how various elements interact and impact one's well-being.

Melissa is an experienced practitioner, who is pleased to offer individual counselling to children, youth, and adults. Melissa welcomes clients from all backgrounds and is a LGBTQ+ ally.

Melissa offers counselling in the following areas:

  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
  • Anxiety
  • Emotional Regulation
  • Parent Coaching & Support
  • Depression
  • Life Transition & Change
  • Stress Management

melissa's areas of service

Alberta

Pam is a Masters level Counselling Psychology Practicum Student who is qualified to practice onsite under the clinical supervision of an approved supervisor. She has spent the last 25 years working in the energy and mining sector with project and corporate staff and their families across Canada and globally. Pam has experience supporting professionals with workplace issues, career development and transitions, and adjusting to change.

Animals are also special for Pam. She volunteers with an animal welfare not-for-profit and deeply appreciates the power of human-animal relationships and how pets support healthy living and aging.

Counselling Psychology Intern

Pam

Pam's services

Pam is a compassionate, empathic, and practical therapist passionate about helping people attain and maintain mental and physical wellness. Pam understands that sometimes it is easier to speak to someone other than family or friends to unburden your thoughts or when trying to navigate a new path. She is committed to listen without judgment, offer alternative perspectives, and/or help clients cultivate change.

Pam offers counselling in the following areas:

  • Life Transitions
  • Stress & Anxiety
  • Self-esteem
  • Job Loss
  • Career Develop, Aspirations and Transitions
  • Depression
  • Feeling Overwhelmed
  • Adjusting to Change
  • Workplace Issues
  • Aging and Retirement

Pam's areas of service

Alberta

Starting your journey with a psychologist can be a big step and its understandable that you might have some questions. You can contact us or take a look at some common questions below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is counselling right for me?

People access counselling for many different reasons and its rare that any two individuals have the same reasons! It has been helpful to many different people in different ways and it is something you need to experience to know for sure.

While we can't tell you if counselling is right for you we'd be happy to meet you and help you discover if it is the right fit.

How do I know which therapist to pick?

A strong therapeutic alliance between the client and counsellor is a good indicator of how successfully change can be achieved in counselling. 

At Through the Woods Psychology it is important to us that you feel you can connect with your psychologist and feel comfortable speaking with them. To facilitate this we offer free 15-minute consultations, where you can explain your needs and we can get an understanding of your needs. 

If this isn't the case, we can provide referrals to help you find the psychologist who will best suits your needs. 

What can I expect from an initial session?

Initial sessions can feel awkward, knowing that you are sharing personal information with a stranger. Because of this, building rapport and a therapeutic relationship is a large focus of the first sessions so clients can feel comfortable. Clients are welcome to share as much or as little of their presenting concerns.   

During your first session the larger areas of focus your psychologist will explore with you why you are topics such as: why you are seeking out counselling and what you hope to gain from it, and work on setting some goals with you.

As it is necessary before we get started, please ensure that online forms are filled out and completed prior to the beginning of our session; if you have any questions or concerns about these forms, don't hesitate to get in touch.

Do you offer telehealth or virtual sessions?

We currently offer both face to face sessions in Calgary and virtual sessions to all Albertans. 

Virtual sessions provide convenience, increased flexibility and can be an excellent solution if our office location is not convenient or accessible to you. 

We can only provide services to residents of Alberta.

What are the costs of counselling?

Our hourly rate for psychologists is $230. This fee covers a 50-minute session and 10 minutes of note taking for a total of 60 minutes. This is based on the current fee schedule determined by the Psychologist’s Association of Alberta. We offer direct billing to most benefits providers, however please be aware that Sunlife does not permit direct billing for psychologists in Alberta.  

Our Certified Canadian Counsellors provide services starting at $150, with sessions structed in the same way as above. Many benefits providers cover the cost of Certified Canadian Counsellors, however many do not direct bill. It is highly recommended to check with your benefits provider regarding coverage.

We are excited to offer counselling at a reduced rate via our Master's of Counselling students. These students are supervised by a registered psychologist and the fee is $50; as above this fee covers a 50-minute session and 10 minutes of note taking for a total of 60 minutes. Please note that these sessions cannot be direct billed, nor can they be claimed through insurance. 

What forms of payment are accepted?

Fees may be paid by cash, credit or debit. We also offer direct billing to many insurance providers.
 
Payment is due on the date of your appointment. 

Are there cancellation fees?

It is very understandable that life circumstances can sometimes get in the way of planned appointments. Your appointment time slot has been specially reserved from you and/or your child. 

When a client cancels too close to an appointment it becomes difficult to fill that time slot and limits our ability to help you and/or others who could be seen during this time. We have a 24-hour cancelation policy to cancel/reschedule your appointment. Late-cancellations (within the 24-hour window) will be charged $110 (50%). 

Missed sessions or no-shows will be charged the rate of the missed session. 

Do you accept insurance?

Through the Woods Psychology offers direct billing with major insurance companies such as Alberta Blue Cross, Canada Life, Desjardins, Green Shield, and more. Before your first visit, we advise you to contact your health insurance provider to inquire about your coverage. Although not all Manulife plans and Sunlife Insurance currently support direct billing for therapy services, we are actively collaborating with them to offer this service to our clients in the near future. If your insurance company is not listed, please feel free to inquire about direct billing options available.

Our office is conveniently located in the Sunpark Plaza medical building in SE Calgary so you can skip the stressful downtown commute.

Mental health care close to home.