Home / Services / Indigenous Counselling
Trauma-informed, culturally respectful counselling for First Nations, Inuit and Métis individuals, couples and families. Eligible First Nations and Inuit clients can access counselling at no cost through the NIHB program, which we bill directly.
Registeredclinical social worker
In personor online across Alberta
MultilingualEnglish, Hindi, Nepali, Punjabi, Urdu
On this page: What it is Signs How we help How it works Therapists FAQ Book
Quick answer
Indigenous counselling is counselling that recognizes how culture, community, land, family and history shape wellbeing. It makes room for the effects of colonization, residential schools and intergenerational trauma without assuming every client’s story is the same. Sessions focus on what you want to work on, whether that is grief, anxiety, substance use, relationships or healing from trauma, at a pace you control.
Eligible registered First Nations and recognized Inuit clients can receive mental health counselling through the federal Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program. We bill NIHB directly, so covered sessions have no out-of-pocket cost. Métis and non-status clients are welcome too, and we can talk through other payment or coverage options.
Is this right for you?
People reach out for many reasons. You do not need to be in crisis, and you do not need to explain your culture before you are understood.
Painful memories, nightmares or feeling on guard after violence, abuse or loss, including experiences passed down through families.
The death of loved ones, losses that come close together, or grief that has never had space to be felt.
Using alcohol or drugs to cope, or wanting support in recovery that respects your values.
Conflict at home, parenting stress or worry about a child or teen.
Feeling overwhelmed, numb, hopeless or disconnected from yourself and others.
Loneliness or disconnection after moving to Edmonton for school, work or health care.
Start with a free 15-minute consultation to ask questions and see if we are the right fit. No referral is needed.
How we help
We are not here to tell your story for you. We listen first, ask what healing means to you and shape counselling around your goals, values and the supports already in your life.
Sessions are usually 50 to 60 minutes, in person at our South Edmonton office or online by secure video anywhere in Alberta.
Safety, choice and trust come first. We recognize the impact of colonization and intergenerational trauma and work at a pace that feels manageable.
Narrative and strengths-based approaches honour your identity, family and community as sources of resilience, not just problems to fix.
Evidence-based tools such as CBT, EMDR and grounding skills help with anxiety, trauma symptoms, sleep and cravings. You are welcome to bring cultural practices and supports that matter to you into the work.
Step by step
A typical path. Your therapist adapts it to you.
A free 15-minute call to share what is going on, ask questions and get matched with the right therapist.
We listen, understand your history and goals, and agree on a plan together.
You build practical skills in session and try them in daily life, at a pace that feels manageable.
We check progress against your goals and adjust, wrap up, or plan follow-up support.
Care from a Registered Clinical Social Worker (MSW, RCSW) who is a Diplomate and Certified in CBT, with EMDR, DBT and Gottman training.
Our office is in South Edmonton, with secure video sessions anywhere in Alberta.
Counselling in English, Hindi, Nepali, Punjabi and Urdu.
We direct bill select insurance providers. Eligible clients can access free counselling through NIHB and IFHP.
Respectful, trauma-informed care for people of every background.
Choose your therapist
Pick someone who feels like a good fit, then book directly with them on Jane or send us a request below.
Registered Clinical Social Worker
Registered Clinical Social Worker in Alberta and Registered Social Worker in Ontario, offering trauma-informed, culturally responsive counselling for individuals, couples and families.
Not sure who to choose? Select “No preference” in the form and we will match you.
Eligible registered First Nations and recognized Inuit clients can access mental health counselling through NIHB at no cost. We confirm eligibility and bill NIHB directly. Read our guide to NIHB mental health counselling in Alberta for details.
You do not need a doctor’s referral. NIHB may require you to confirm eligibility details, such as your status number, before the first session. We help you through the steps.
Yes. NIHB does not cover Métis or non-status clients, but you are welcome at Disha. Some workplace or private insurance plans cover counselling with a Registered Clinical Social Worker.
Yes. We offer secure video sessions anywhere in Alberta, so you can attend from home, including in rural areas and First Nations communities with an internet connection.
Counselling is not an emergency service. The Hope for Wellness Help Line offers free support for Indigenous people across Canada 24 hours a day at 1-855-242-3310. In a crisis, call or text 9-8-8, or dial 911.
No. You can book directly online or by phone. A doctor’s referral is not required, although some insurance plans ask for one, so check your plan if you plan to claim.
Many extended health plans cover counselling with a Registered Clinical Social Worker. We direct bill select insurance providers, and eligible clients can access free counselling through NIHB and IFHP. Check your plan for coverage details.
Our office is at 3818A 97 St NW #203, Edmonton, AB T6E 6N2, in South Edmonton. We also offer secure online sessions anywhere in Alberta.
Take the first step
Send a request and we will reply to arrange your first session, or book a time yourself on our secure Jane App portal.
587-372-3143
contact@disha.ca
3818A 97 St NW #203, Edmonton, AB T6E 6N2
In crisis? Call or text 9-8-8, or dial 911. This form is not monitored around the clock.
