Russell Stagg, MA, MC, LCT,RP

With credentials in three provinces, I am available to clients everywhere in Canada except Quebec. Please note I counsel clients by telephone or Zoom ONLY. I help with issues like depression, addiction, or relationship problems. Some of my clients have experienced bullying, domestic violence, or the trauma of leaving an abusive religion. I specialize in trauma, particularly sexual abuse and sexual assault.

My articles on trauma have been published in major psychology journals, including an invited article in the prestigious journal Self & Society. My research in various fields has been cited almost 2500 times.

I started helping people deal with life problems as a hospital chaplain intern in 2006. After serving as Jewish chaplain at the University of Calgary, I became the interfaith Resident Chaplain for the Emergency, Intensive Care, and Burn Units at Calgary Foothills Hospital. During this time, I recognized my ability to connect with patients and families at the most difficult times of their lives, and I decided to pursue a career in counselling. I received my master's degree in Counselling Psychology in 2013. I am a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario, a Licensed Counselling Therapist in New Brunswick, and a Clinical Counsellor in BC.

I have a person-centred approach, trying to understand your situation as if it were my own. I want you to feel truly heard. I also use the techniques of cognitive-behavioural therapy to address painful thoughts and feelings. Underneath them are toxic messages you are often unaware of, like "I'm such a failure," or "I'm unlovable," or "it's hopeless." We'll use the techniques of cognitive-behavioural therapy to challenge and overcome them. I won’t pressure you to revisit past trauma: the aim of trauma therapy is to STOP you revisiting the past!

I may also teach the techniques of mindfulness if you've been struggling with addiction, PTSD, or repeated bouts of depression. Used with caution, it can be a helpful tool.

At every step, I'll do my utmost to make you feel safe and supported.

Choosing a therapist is one of the most important decisions you will make.  Please phone or email me if you have questions.

(Photo courtesy Norm Wolf, Chinook Photography.)