Short-Term Counselling

Short-Term Counselling

Counselling can provide a confidential and non-judgmental safe space to talk openly with someone objective. A first session typically starts with getting to know one another, gathering information on your concerns and background in order to help identify your goals. Together we will make a plan to manage your ongoing mental health concerns and will work in collaboration with your clinician towards your goals. It is normal to feel nervous, anxious or even hesitant to try counselling. 

Our clinicians deliver Short-Term Counselling using various evidence-based approaches. Sessions are 50-minutes long and you can generally rebook within a minimum of every two weeks within a limited time frame. Students seeking weekly counselling or who need longer term services will be referred to the appropriate resources. 

Should I go to Peer Support or Short-Term Counselling ?

Seeing Peer Support can be a good first step if you are looking for someone who shares your experience of being a student. They are trained in supportive listening and can offer support through those stressful times where we need to talk to someone. Here are some reasons to connect with peer support:

• Struggling with the transition to University
• Feeling overwhelmed by your assignments and classes 
• Stressful friendship or relationship situations
• Needing a safe, friendly, and supportive ear to talk to about personal or school related struggles
• Needing a space to decompress from a stressful day and needing to talk to someone about what to do moving forward 

Our Peer Support team can also help you connect with Short-Term Counselling if you think that you may need further support. 

How do I access Short-Term Counselling at CUE?

1. Fill out this Google Form using your Concordia student email address. *Please be sure to include your student ID number*
2. Book an First Appointment by visiting the clinicians booking calendar’s on the submission page once the form has been submitted or visit the Student Success Centre, who can help you book an appointment. *Please note you can re-access your clinician’s calendar at any time by visiting the Google Form*
3. Attend the first appointment, in your meeting you will share with your clinician your concerns and goals.
4. Leave with a plan for next steps, which can include strategies to help, Short-Term Counselling at CUE and/or referrals to other services. 

*Please note that if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment we require 24 hours notice. If you have 2 no shows for your scheduled appointments, you will not be able to reschedule for 30 days.*

*Please arrive on time for your appointment, if you are 15 minutes or more late unfortunately your appointment will need to be rescheduled. *

*Please note that our clinicians do not offer assessments or formal diagnosis. If you are requiring a psychoeducational assessment for accommodations please reach out to Student Accessibility Services.*

Where are the appointments? 

In-person sessions with Jessica are located inside the Student Success Centre and with Maxine in the Library. We are open year round Monday to Friday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Session times will vary depending on the clinician your appointment is with.

CUE also offers virtual appointments via video through Google Meets. In virtual counselling the therapist and the student must be on camera. 

How much does it cost? 

You have access to short-term counselling at CUE for free if you are currently enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate student at Concordia University of Edmonton. 

Jessica Johnson

I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists. I have a BA with a major in Psychology and a Masters of Counselling. I work with individuals with the goal of healing from a variety of life’s obstacles and aim to support those struggling with relationship and family dynamics and all of life’s transitions. I have experience working with children, youth and adults of all ages. I have supported many individuals within the LGBTQ+ community and provided everyone I work with a safe environment to explore any challenges that may be coming up for them. I utilize a variety of brief therapy modalities along with a strength based approach. My practice is rooted in Narrative Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy. 

My work is dedicated to helping others navigate their life journey and finding the confidence to live their most authentic selves. 

Maxine Courtoreille-Paul

I am an Indigenous counsellor with ancestral roots in the Métis Nations of Alberta and the Northwest Territories (NWT), as well as the Papaschase First Nation. Currently pursuing my Master of Counselling Psychology at City University of Seattle, I bring over 15 years of experience as a Life Skills Coach and spiritual support provider into my counselling practice. My approach is rooted in Narrative Therapy and Solution Focused Brief Therapy, all informed by Indigenous ways of knowing and being.

As a Traditional Knowledge Keeper, I incorporate Indigenous cultural practices into my work, offering guidance that honors the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of well-being. I incorporate traditional teachings and use traditional medicines in my practice, creating a holistic approach to healing. My extensive experience includes working with trauma, addictions, grief, and loss, and I am committed to supporting adults, elders, and teens through culturally relevant and compassionate care. I have 9 years’ experience working with federal Indigenous offenders providing cultural and reintegration supports.

I aim to create a supportive environment for all who come to sit with me, providing a safe space that respects and empowers individuals on their paths to healing. My work is dedicated to helping people navigate life’s challenges while staying connected to their cultural and spiritual roots.

Counseling Services is located in the Student Success Centre, across from the Bookstore.

Questions? Email studentlife@concordia.ab.ca

Other Options

Low cost web-based counselling is now available through your student benefits myWellness student plan. Connect to a counsellor in Edmonton area on your phone. Weekends and evenings hours available.

CUE Online Video Counselling Fact Sheet

Online Resources

Additional information, education, and resources are available online through your student benefits myWellness student plan.

A free, confidential virtual clinic tailor-made for Alberta’s young people available through Kickstand Connect. At Kickstand Connect, you can access free mental health and substance use counselling, peer support, employment services and register for free workshops and support groups!