FAQ
Answers to common questions
These topics mirror the conversations we have on every intake call.
Late Cancellation / Credit Card
Why is there a late cancellation/no show policy?
Late cancellations/no shows block access for others. Physicians call from a blocked number—please allow these calls. Fees: $200 for no-shows or cancellations <72 hours (individual sessions).
2. What if I missed my appointment due to an emergency?
Tell us; emergencies are reviewed case by case.
3. Do other clinics require credit cards on file for cancellations/no shows?
Yes. Many medical/dental, massage therapy, and physio clinics require a card on file.
4. Do I have to leave my credit card information to be a patient at this practice?
Yes. This is our policy and common in healthcare.
5. How do you safeguard the credit information you keep on file?
Card data is handled by Jane/Stripe; Jane stores only a token, Stripe stores the sensitive data.
6. What's that odd, small charge on my credit card?
A temporary authorization (about $1 or less) to verify the card; it drops off automatically, often within 7 business days.
Group Counseling
1. Can I self-refer to Owl Pod Group Therapy?
No. A Physician or Nurse Practitioner referral is required.
2. What does group therapy look like?
10 participants, 5 sessions every 1–2 weeks, 2 hours each, facilitated by Owl Pod physicians/facilitators.
3. Which groups will be available?
Loneliness, Stress, Weight management. Coming soon: Emotional regulation, Caregiver Support, Procrastination, Anxiety, Grief, Depression.
4. Are Groups Co-Ed?
Yes. Groups may be facilitated by male or female physicians.
5. Can I be in individual and group counseling at the same time?
Yes, but we recommend limiting individual sessions (about monthly) while attending group.
6. I’m worried about seeing someone I know in the group. What do I do if that happens?
Contact the facilitator; they’ll help you decide next steps. No contact/demographic info is shared; all participants sign confidentiality/consent.
7. What does a typical group session look like?
Group discussions plus a short skills/topic presentation; focus is on interactions among members.
8. What platform will virtual group therapy be on?
Zoom Healthcare (HIPAA compliant); a working camera is required and must stay on unless otherwise arranged.
9. Do I have to reveal all my deepest secrets and feelings to the group?
No. You choose what to share. Sharing grows as safety builds; benefit increases when you participate openly.
10. What if I’m too shy and not able to talk as much as the other group members?
Feeling anxious starting group is normal. Leaders help start conversation and may use breakout rooms (~3 people) to practice skills.
11. How many people are in a typical group?
About 10 patients with 1–2 group leaders.
12. Can I be in multiple groups at the same time?
No, one group at a time.
13. Can I join another group after completing one group?
Yes; you may be placed on a waitlist until a spot opens.
14. Can I do the same group again after completing it?
Yes; you may be waitlisted if demand is high.
15. Do I have to attend every session of the group?
Please attend all sessions. If you’ll miss one, email info@owlpod.ca at least 24 hours ahead.
16. Is What I Say Kept Confidential?
Members are expected to protect confidentiality. Absolute confidentiality can’t be guaranteed; legal/ethical exceptions include child abuse, suicide/homicide risk, or court orders.
17. What Will Be Expected of Me as a Group Member?
Attend regularly, camera on, share speaking time, and be open and honest within group guidelines.
18. Won’t listening to other people’s problems make me feel worse? I’m worried that my problems aren’t as bad as others, or might be worse.
Hearing others usually reduces isolation. If something feels triggering, message the facilitator; they can redirect.
General FAQ
Can I self-refer to Owl Pod?
No, a referral from a Physician or Nurse Practitioner is required.
2. How many sessions can I have and how long do they last?
No maximum; sessions are usually 45–60 minutes every 3–4 weeks, adjusted to needs and availability.
3. Do you offer in person sessions?
No, we are a virtual clinic only.
4. Do you prescribe medications?
We do not prescribe; we can liaise with your Family Physician to discuss medications if needed.
5. Do you do legal forms or Disability/Insurance forms?
We do not complete these forms. We can provide your referring physician with session counts and focus to support their paperwork.
6. Do you do assessments for ADHD or other Mental Health conditions?
We are not a diagnostic clinic; for diagnostic clarity, please see Psychiatry.
7. Do I have to pay for your services?
No. Sessions are covered by Alberta Health with a valid Alberta Health card. Late/no-show fees are patient responsibility.
8. What kind of training do Family Physicians have in Mental Health counseling?
Counseling is part of Family Medicine training (e.g., CBT in the University of Calgary program). Many physicians pursue additional mental-health education.
9. Do I have to have Alberta Health Coverage?
Yes, valid Alberta Health coverage is required.
10. What platform do you use for booking appointments and storing data?
JaneApp (HIPAA compliant).
11. Are there referrals you do not accept?
We do not see patients under 16, or unstable Psychosis, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD, or Substance Use Disorder. Check with your referring provider about stability.
12. What if I am in a crisis?
We are not an emergency service. Use crisis lines on the site or go to your local Emergency Department.