As a Registered Psychologist trained in Marriage and Family Therapy, I believe that relationships are central to the health and well-being of individuals, families and communities. An individual always functions and grows within a “system”, whether as a member of a couple, family or group. Individual goals and visions are best understood and pursued within this broad framework. In counselling, each person is encouraged to understand their unique situation and reach for attainable goals. Together, client and therapist work toward making changes needed for a better life.
Christine Crocker
Areas of Practice AddictionsADHDAnxietyBlended FamiliesDepressionDisordered EatingGender IdentityGrief/LossLife Adjustment/TransitionLGBTQ+OCDParentingPersonal Development/GrowthPre-Marital CounselingRelationship ProblemsSelf-Esteem/Self-CompassionSeparation and DivorceSexualityStress/BurnoutTraumaHealth/Medical ConcernsWomen's Health Counseling
|Child-Parent Relationships|Anger Management|Behaviour problems|Body Image||Career/Vocation|Communication|Infidelity|Learning Difficulties|Loneliness/Isolation|Pain Management|Panic Attacks|Phobias|Post-Partum Adjustment|Pre-Marital Counselling|Self-Injury|Sleep problems|
Approach
Christine works with families, couples and individuals, providing support and consultation for child and adolescent challenges, parenting, child development and child behaviour through play based therapy; marriage preparation, reconciliation strategies, sexual health, communication and conflict resolution; emotional regulation such as anger management; healthy relationships with your spouse, children, extended family or work associates; life transition issues such as separation, divorce, loss of a loved one, career change, remarriage, blended families or an empty nest; screening and coaching for self-management of depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, ODD and OCD; and group facilitation and workshops.
Christine’s approach integrates:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Family Systems
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
Narrative
Person-Centered Therapy
Play Therapy
Solution-Focused
Background
Christine Crocker is a Registered Psychologist who has been providing services to families, couples and individuals since 2007, both in private practice and for agencies. Christine has a Masters in Science in Marital and Family Therapy through Loma Linda University and a Bachelor of Science Specialization awarded from the University of Alberta. Christine holds membership in good standing with the College of Alberta Psychologists (Reg# 3311) and the Psychologist Association of Alberta.
Favorite Quote
When I have been listened to and when I have been heard, I am able to re-perceive my world in a new way and to go on…
— Carl R. Rogers
What I like most about change is that it’s a synonym for “hope”. If you are taking a risk, what you are really saying is, “I believe in tomorrow and I will be part of it.”
– Linda Ellerbee
Wellness Matters Videos
See Christine’s talks below to get to know her and an area she often works with in therapy
How Christine works with…
Children
My focus as a Child Psychologist, is on you as a parent, and the children you care about. We will work together to draw out your “best parent” and also realize how to be a “good enough” parent. I focus on prevention and wellness for your child by expanding your child’s emotional and behaviour development through play based work. We may also work together to tackle troublesome behaviours or improve emotional regulation, such as anger management, worries or sadness. Together, we can support life transition issues such as separation, divorce, loss of a loved one, school transitions or blended family issues. Friedrich Froebel (founder of the concept of kindergarten):
“Play is the highest expression of human development in childhood, for it alone is the free expression of what is in a child’s soul.” Jerome Singer (professor, Yale University): “The activities that are the easiest, cheapest, and most fun to do – such as singing, playing games, reading, storytelling, and just talking and listening – are also the best for child development.”
Adolescent / Teen
Often parents/caregivers are worried about their adolescent’s emotions or behaviour. They wonder: Are they coping? Is this developmentally appropriate? Are my youth’s emotions or behaviour something to be concerned about? A therapist can work together with parents and their adolescent, to identify useful and new coping skills to add to their toolbox. As a therapist, I often explore with youth questions like “who am I, who do I want to be or what am I thinking or feeling?” I often explore with parents “what are your dreams and hopes for your adolescent”? I also help parents understand what is developmentally appropriate and explore best parenting strategies for this often confusing stage. Here are 2 quotes that speak to me about teens, that I hope will offer some solace to parents who are struggling: William Galvin: "Mother Nature is providential. She gives us twelve years to develop a love for our children before turning them into teenagers." Virginia Satir: "Adolescents are not monsters. They are just people trying to learn how to make it among the adults in the world, who are probably not so sure themselves."
Couples
As a couples therapist, I will walk the journey with you to help you tackle your personal and relationship challenges together: from reconciliation strategies, emotional and physical intimacy, communication and conflict resolution. I strive to help couples grow and improve in their life together. These quotes speak to me about relationships and may give some hope to couples that are struggling. Dr. Gary Chapman: "Conflicts are not a sign you’ve married the wrong person. They simply affirm you are human." Barnett Brickner: "Success in marriage does not come merely through finding the right mate, but through being the right mate."
We’ll help you find the right fit.
Our client care team works with each new client to ensure they are matched to the right therapist.
It’s essential to find a therapist who aligns with your unique needs and preferences. If you’re unsure where to begin, you don’t have to figure it out alone.