How to find a psychologist who works with immigrants?

Immigration is always a complex combination of expectations and challenges. Moving to a new country with a different linguistic, cultural, and social environment is often accompanied by the stress of adaptation, language barriers, loss of social support, and the search for a new identity. For many immigrants in Calgary, one of Canada's most dynamic and multicultural cities, professional psychological support is essential for successful integration and maintaining mental health. This article takes a detailed look at how to find a psychologist who specializes in working with immigrants in Calgary: from search resources and selection criteria to preparing for your first consultation.

Why it is important to consult a psychologist who works with immigrants

Psychologists who specialize in immigration have:

  • Cultural competence – they understand the impact of cultural differences, migration stress, and family dynamics on mental health.

  • Experience with language barriers – they often speak several languages or have access to translation services.

  • Knowledge of support systems for immigrants – they are familiar with the social and legal resources available in Alberta and Canada.

  • Skills in adaptation therapy – use approaches tailored to the challenges of culture shock, loss of community, and building a new life.

Consulting such a specialist increases the effectiveness of therapy and helps you feel understood and supported.

Step 1. Search for specialized resources

1.1. Professional associations of psychologists

  • College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP) Website: https://abpsychologists.org Here you can find licensed psychologists by specialty and region.

  • Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW) Website: https://acsw.ab.ca If you need a clinical social worker with experience working with immigrants.

1.2. Specialized clinics and organizations

  • Calgary Counselling Centre Support programs for immigrants and refugees, often with a multilingual team.

  • Catholic Family Service of Calgary Offers special services for new immigrants and refugees, including psychological counseling.

  • Immigrant Services Calgary (ISC) Provides referral services to psychologists, social workers, and counselors.

1.3. Online platforms

  • Psychology Today Filters: Calgary, specialties = immigration, multilingual
  • Theravive Ability to search for psychologists with language skills and experience working with cultural communities.

Step 2. Criteria for choosing a psychologist

2.1. Qualifications and license to practice

  • CAP or ACSW license.
  • Certification in intercultural psychotherapy, trauma therapy, or crisis intervention.

2.2. Language skills

  • Arrange a consultation with a psychologist who speaks your native language (e.g., Ukrainian or Russian) or provides professional translation.

2.3. Experience working with immigrants

  • Ask about previous cases of adjustment stress, culture shock, and family therapy in multicultural families.

2.4. Therapeutic approach

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) – effective for anxiety and depression.
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – helps build new values in a different cultural context.
  • Trauma-based therapy (EMDR) – useful for post-traumatic disorders in refugees.

2.5. Location and format of meetings

  • Office in a convenient area of Calgary (Downtown, Beltline, Kensington).
  • Option of online sessions via Zoom or other platforms.

2.6. Cost and insurance coverage

  • The average cost of a session is $120–$200 CAD.
  • Check if your private health insurance covers counseling.
  • Some non-profit organizations offer a sliding scale fee based on income.

Step 3. Preparing for your first consultation

  1. Gathering information Prepare a brief description of your migration experience, main difficulties, and specific goals for therapy in advance.

  2. Questions for the psychologist

  • What is your experience working with immigrants from my country?

  • What therapy methods do you use?

  • Are in-person and online consultations available?

  • What are the costs and payment terms?

  1. Creating a comfortable environment Make sure that the place for the online session is not distracting and that the psychologist's office is easily accessible by public transport or car.

Step 4. Evaluate effectiveness and next steps

  • After 3-5 sessions, assess whether you feel relief, improved mood, and better coping skills.

  • Discuss a plan for further work with the psychologist: duration of therapy, independent exercises, involvement of family or community.

  • If necessary, review the format (group therapy, art therapy, community support).

Finding a psychologist who truly understands the unique aspects of the immigrant experience is a key step toward successful adaptation in Calgary. Use the resources provided, choose your specialist carefully, and actively participate in the therapy process — this will help you relieve stress, find inner balance, and build a new life with confidence and satisfaction in your new city.