Telepsychology First Accessible, High‑Quality CBT‑I & Mental Health Care Across Alberta
A telepsychology-first private practice delivering evidence-based psychological care via secure video for clients across Alberta, including CBT‑I for insomnia. Dr. Pratt prioritizes remote access while maintaining clinical rigor, privacy, and collaborative care with your local providers.
Why Telepsychology?
Telepsychology lets us meet you where you are—at home, at work, or anywhere in Alberta—using secure video platforms. This improves access to specialized treatments like CBT‑I (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia), particularly for people in remote communities, those with limited mobility, or people juggling work and family commitments.
Telehealth Works: Video CBT‑I is Effective
Research shows that CBT‑I delivered by trained therapists using video or telehealth platforms offers treatment outcomes similar to in‑person care for many clients. Video delivery preserves the critical therapeutic elements (assessment, sleep scheduling, stimulus control, cognitive restructuring, relaxation training) while making it easier to access specialized care.
In short, telepsychology doesn't trade quality for convenience—when provided by a clinician trained in CBT‑I and telehealth best practices, video sessions are a clinically sound option.
Benefits of Telepsychology-First Care
Province-Wide Access
Available to anyone with Alberta residency, including rural areas and small towns that don’t have specialized sleep therapists nearby.
Same Clinical Standards
Sessions follow evidence-based protocols identical to in-person CBT-I and mental health care, tailored for remote delivery by a trained clinician.
Convenience & Comfort
Attend sessions from home without travel time or missed work; this often improves attendance and continuity of care.
Integrated Care
If needed, we coordinate with your physician or other providers to ensure care is safe and aligned across the team.
Who Benefits from Telepsychology?
People in Remote and Rural Areas
Specialized psychological services are often concentrated in cities. Telepsychology provides fair access regardless of distance.
Those Who Can’t Travel
People with mobility challenges, caregiving responsibilities, or limited transport options can still access consistent care.
Busy Professionals & Caregivers
Telepsychology reduces time off work and logistical barriers, making it easier to keep regular appointments.
Clients Seeking Specialized CBT‑I
As one of a limited number of Alberta clinicians specializing in CBT-I, Dr. Pratt offers province-wide access to this gold-standard treatment via telehealth. Learn more about CBT‑I.
How Telepsychology Services Work
Initial Inquiry & Assessment
We start with a secure online intake and a thorough assessment to understand your sleep and mental health history, medications, and goals.
Secure Video Sessions
Sessions are delivered using secure, privacy-compliant platforms. Sessions typically last 45–60 minutes and can be scheduled at times that work for you.
Evidence-Based Therapy & Progress Tracking
We use CBT‑I and other evidence-based approaches adapted for telehealth, track progress with sleep diaries and validated measures, and adjust the plan as needed.
Integrated Follow-Up & Maintenance
Once your sleep and mental health improve, we build a practical maintenance plan to reduce relapse risk and support long-term wellness.
Practical Information
Appointment Format
Sessions are conducted via secure video by default; in-person appointments are available in Calgary on request.
Session Length & Schedule
Sessions are typically 45–60 minutes. CBT‑I programs commonly run 6–8 weekly sessions with follow-up as needed for maintenance or complex cases.
Insurance
Most extended health plans cover psychologist services; we provide receipts for claims and can discuss coverage details at your first appointment.
Privacy & Safety
We use secure platforms and follow best practices for privacy. For safety, we coordinate with local providers and include safety planning for clients experiencing severe symptoms.
Telepsychology Policies: Limitations, Privacy & Your Responsibilities
By agreeing to meet with your psychologist via telepsychology services (i.e., videoconference or telephone), please be aware of the following limitations, responsibilities, and privacy considerations:
Service Limitations
- Reduced Visual Cues: Telepsychology may lead to misunderstandings due to limited or absent nonverbal communication. You or your psychologist may request clarification at any time.
- Communication Boundaries: E-mail may be used for scheduling or to resolve technical issues. Text messaging or social media communication is not supported.
- Regulatory Oversight: Psychologists are regulated by the College of Alberta Psychologists and, where applicable, other provincial regulatory bodies. Concerns about telepsychology services may be directed to the appropriate regulatory college.
- Ongoing Fit Review: Your psychologist may periodically assess whether telepsychology continues to be a suitable format for your care. Alternatives may include in-person sessions, referral to a local provider, or access to crisis services (e.g., the Calgary Distress Centre).
- Crisis Limitations: Telepsychology is not suitable for urgent or emergency situations. In a crisis, refer to the “Urgent Contact” section of your Psychological Services Agreement or contact a local crisis line or emergency service.
Technology & Confidentiality Limitations
- Potential Disruptions: Telepsychology may be affected by technological issues such as unstable internet, time delays, or equipment failure.
- No Recording Policy: Sessions may not be recorded by either party unless agreed to in writing beforehand.
- Secure Platforms Used: We use Jane and Google Meet for video appointments. Both platforms meet the security and privacy standards required under PIPEDA, PIPA, and PHIPA.
- Transmission Risks: Although every effort is made to protect your privacy, using the internet for therapy carries inherent risks (e.g., unauthorized access, security breaches). Extra precautions (such as identity verification) may be used to protect your confidentiality.
Retention and Storage of Information
- Secure Recordkeeping: Clinical records, session notes, and personal information are stored securely in accordance with the requirements of the College of Alberta Psychologists and applicable provincial and federal legislation.
- Privacy Compliance: All client data is managed in compliance with PIPEDA, PIPA, and PHIPA. Records are retained for the legally required duration and are securely destroyed once no longer needed.
Client Responsibilities
- Location Requirement: You must be physically located in a province or territory where your psychologist is authorized to practice at the time of your appointment. It is your responsibility to inform your psychologist of your location if it changes.
- Technical Readiness: You are responsible for ensuring your internet connection and device support telepsychology services. Any questions or concerns should be discussed before your first session.
- Private Setting: To protect your privacy, sessions should be conducted in a private space where you are the only person present and out of hearing range of others, unless otherwise agreed upon in advance.
Ready to Access Care From Anywhere in Alberta?
Dr. Pratt’s telepsychology-first practice is designed to meet you where you are. If you’re seeking specialized CBT‑I or integrated mental health care via secure video, we’re available across Alberta.
Most extended health benefits cover psychological services