Are Groups covered by insurance?

Both Anna Irving and Janelle Cohos are Registered Psychologists and the groups offered through Alberta Perinatal Wellness Centre are considered therapeutic processing groups, making them eligible for coverage. Please contact your insurance provider to verify what your coverage is for psychological services in advance of signing up for a group. Lump sum payment is made at the time of registration and you will receive an official receipt by email with information required to submit your insurance claim.

How do I register for Groups?

Please send any questions or interest for group registration to: info@albertaperinatal.com. We will respond accordingly with the registration process and confirmation.

Do I have to commit to the entire multi-week program?

Ideally – yes! Group members are encouraged to attend weekly for the entire multi-week duration to gain full benefit of the group experience. We also understand, you carry busy lives and things may come up leading to you missing a session. No refunds are given once the group has begun.

What is the structure of the Groups?

The Groups we offer are commonly “semi-structured groups”, meaning we have some weekly discussion points to help guide conversations, but leave ample time for group members to share their experiences. Sessions are typically scheduled weekly for a predetermined period of time (usually 6 weeks), and at the same time and day of the week. The same group members attend Group each week.

How can I access individual counselling?

Both Janelle and Anna have private practices that offer individual counselling in the perinatal field. You can access their independent practice websites under the Services tab > Individual Therapy here.

Can I be in individual counselling and in Group at the same time?

Yes! Most times it’s beneficial to access both, as you can further explore themes coming up in group therapy that are resonating with you, with individual attention from your therapist.

Do I have to disclose my deepest challenges with the Group? What level of disclosure is required in Group?

When you meet people for the first time, it’s hard to know what to say and how much to trust them. It’s important to remember that in a group setting, many will be struggling with the same things you are, and perhaps feeling a similar level of nervousness about attending group sessions.

The level of disclosure is totally up to you and your comfort level. A good rule of thumb might be: the more you share, the more opportunity you may have for group feedback and potential benefit.

If, however, you would prefer to sit back and listen during a group session, rather than share your experiences, that is your prerogative. Often, when one group member decides to share something vulnerable, other members may feel more inclined to follow suit, thereby deepening relationships and enhancing the group experience. Just some food for thought.

Is what I say kept confidential?

All group members are expected to respect the confidentiality of the group. Group members are asked to make a commitment to protect other group members’ confidentiality by agreeing not to disclose information that would harm the identity of others outside the group. While we can’t guarantee absolute confidentiality in a group setting, we find that group members are usually very respectful of the ask. Confidentiality is outlined at the time of each member’s group registration, and again during the first group session.

What if end up knowing someone in the group and I don’t feel comfortable carrying on?

It is possible that this scenario occurs, and one or both group members do not feel comfortable proceeding with Group. Due to confidentiality, we are not able to share the group list with you prior to attending. If this situation happens to you, please bring it to the immediate attention of one of our facilitators (Janelle or Anna), and we will discuss next steps. In this circumstance, you would never be obligated to continue attending the current group; if an alternative group doesn’t work for your schedule, a refund will be issued.