Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if therapy is right for me?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or facing emotions or situations that feel hard to handle, therapy can offer a supportive space to explore and work through these challenges. Therapy isn’t only for difficult times—it’s also a place to gain insight, get to know yourself better, and develop a deeper understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and patterns. If you’re unsure, your first session is a helpful opportunity to see how therapy feels and decide if it’s the right fit for you.
What can I expect at the first session?
Your first session is a chance to get to know your therapist and create a comfortable, safe space. You’ll talk about what brought you to therapy, share any goals or concerns, and ask any questions you have. There’s no pressure to cover everything right away—therapy is a journey, and your therapist will guide you at a pace that feels right for you. ​
What if I don’t know what to talk about?
It’s normal to feel unsure. Therapy doesn’t require a clear topic—meaningful conversations often emerge as the session unfolds. At Sonder, your therapist will meet you where you’re at and help guide the session, so you can explore whatever feels important in the moment.
Will I have to talk about things I’m not ready for?
No. You only share what feels safe and comfortable. Therapy may involve some discomfort — that’s part of growth — but it should never feel harmful. Every client’s healing journey is unique and your therapist will support you at a pace that works for you.
How many sessions will I need?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—everyone’s needs and goals in therapy are different. Some people find a few sessions helpful for working through a specific issue, while others benefit from longer-term support to explore deeper patterns or ongoing challenges. Your therapist will work with you to decide what pace and length of therapy feels right for you.
Can I bring a friend or family member to a session?
Therapy is most often one-on-one, creating a private space just for you. However, there may be times when it’s helpful to have a friend, partner, or family member join a session, especially if it supports your goals or helps with communication and understanding.
If you’re considering bringing someone with you, let your therapist know in advance. Together, you can decide if it’s the right fit and how to make the most of that time.
Is what I share confidential?
Yes. Your privacy is extremely important, and what you share in therapy is kept confidential. This means your therapist will not share information about you without your permission.
There are a few legal and ethical exceptions to confidentiality. Your therapist will explain what this means at the beginning of therapy. Risk of harm: If there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or someone else, your therapist may need to break confidentiality to ensure safety. Child or vulnerable adult protection: If there are concerns about abuse or neglect involving a child or vulnerable person, your therapist is required to report this. Minors: If you're under 18, there may be some limits to confidentiality.
Session Rates
Sydney Thackeray, R. Psych
Registered Psychologist (R. Psych)
$235 per 60 minute individual session
(based on 50 mins of counselling and 10 mins for documentation)
2025 Psychologists Association of Alberta Recommended Fee Schedule
Kelsey Kalinski, CCC
Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC)
$180 per 60 minute Individual session
$200 per 60 minute Couples session
(based on 50 mins of counselling and 10 mins for documentation)
Aligned with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association
Is payment required at booking?
No. Payment will be taken after the session is complete.
Clients are welcome to pay via credit card, e-transfer or cash.
Why is credit card information needed in order to book?
​A credit card is securely kept on file to cover potential late cancellations or missed appointments. If you choose to pay by credit card, it will be charged after your session.
Are Sonder services covered by insurance?
Counselling services may be eligible for insurance coverage or reimbursement when provided by a registered psychologist or a Canadian-certified counsellor. Coverage varies by insurance plan, so please check with your provider for details specific to your policy.
Is direct billing available?
No, direct billing is not offered at this time. ​

Cancellation Policy
Life happens — we get it.
If you need to cancel or reschedule your session, there is no charge as long as you provide at least 24 hours’ notice.
If a session is cancelled, rescheduled, or missed with less than 24 hours’ notice, the following fees apply:
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First time: 50% of the session fee
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Second time (and beyond): 100% of the session fee
This policy helps us offer consistent and fair availability to all clients.

Sonder Counselling Co.
We believe every life is a story worth telling.

