The Community Counselling Centre

is a committed team of qualified professionals.


We Believe that most people, at some point in their lives, experience a need for change.  The desire for change or the need to feel better often opens the door for healing to take place. With a little help, people can heal themselves.

Our goal is to guide you through the process of healthy growth. We help you to work through issues in a down-to-earth manner. We conduct our business with integrity and professionalism, and we honour our professional code of ethics.

You are invited to be active in your own healing process.  You are encouraged to reflect on you personal issues and integrate your feelings and thoughts with compassion and understanding.  A variety of short-term or long-term counselling options are available based on your particular need.

We include Specialists in Pastoral Counselling who are experienced in working with people who want to develop healthy, meaningful lives and relationships.  We also have mature Pastoral Counselling Residents and Interns who are registered in the Masters of Arts in Pastoral Psychology and Counselling program at St. Stephen's College, University of Alberta.  They see clients under supervision.  

MARIE POWERS is a Pastoral Counselling Specialist, certified by the Canadian Association for Pastoral Practice and Education (CAPPE) since 1995.  She is a founding director of the Pastoral Counselling Group. Her background in nursing and hospital chaplaincy serve her well as she takes into consideration all aspects of a client’s life.

Marie is also a certified Bodytalk Practitioner since 2001 and has Reiki Level II certification.  She incorporates these forms of energy balancing into her counselling practice with very positive results. 

JOHN WALKER is a Pastoral Counselling Specialist, certified by CAPPE. He has post-graduate education in trauma focused therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR), and Meyers-Brigg’s Type Indicators (MBTI). 

As a holistic psychotherapist John draws upon his knowledge of ecological, spiritual, and physical health to support and guide his clients towards greater well-being. His areas of interest include abuse and trauma, dissociation, addictions, parenting, men’s issues and couple counselling.

GARTH BOGART is a Pastoral Counselling Specialist, certified by CAPPE. He also holds a Masters of Arts degree in Pastoral Psychology and Counselling (MAPPC).  Garth is currently doing post-graduate work 2 days per week in Calgary as an intern with the Family Therapy Training Program, working in both the Walk-in Program and the Adult Mental Health Program.

Garth is also a practicing United Church Minister with a Masters of Divinity Degree, as well as, a degree and background in Chemical Engineering. He is experienced in working with managerial and technical personnel, as well as, couples and families.  He has a particular interest in depression, anxiety, and relationship issues, as well as, marriage preparation.

 JES SCHIENBEIN is an Associate Teaching Supervisor of Pastoral Counselling Education, certified by CAPPE and has been in the field of Pastoral Counselling for 25 years.  He is a Lutheran Minister holding Masters Degrees in Sacred Theology and Pastoral Care and Counselling.  Jes is also a Clinical Member and Approved Supervisor of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), as well, a Fellow with the American Association of Pastoral Counselling (AAPC).

Jes teaches two courses at the Pastoral Counselling Group at the Masters Degree level and supervises interns.  He specializes in counselling individuals who have experienced physical / sexual abuse, depression, self-esteem, grief recovery, couple counselling and marriage preparation.

Our clients tell us...

"I could have never made the changes that I'm making without coming here."

"I have appreciated your spirit, skill, and humour."

"I'm grateful for your support, patience, and persistence."

"I see that I am being challenged again and again to elevate myself by making responsible and well thought-out decisions.  I appreciate your guidance in helping me discover the answers."

"Thank you for your professionalism and respect."

Our therapists are certified by one or more of the following associations:

  • The Canadian Association for Pastoral Practice and Education (CAPPE)
  • The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT)
  • The American Association of Pastoral Counsellors (AAPC)
  • The International BodyTalk Association
  • Enrich Canada Incorporated
  • Psychometrics Canada
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