Priya Virk

What is your name?

Hello! My name is Priya Virk

What do you do at Shift?

As a Registered Provisional Psychologist, I aim to help clients recognize and challenge their limiting beliefs and negative thought patterns using a pattern theory approach. I also incorporate various therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), to address issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, etc.

A key focus of my work is helping clients set and achieve goals related to emotional regulation, communication, and stress management to make positive, lasting changes in their lives, all while prioritizing the development of a solid therapeutic relationship.

What are your academic credentials?

I have completed my Master of Counselling degree from City University of Seattle and hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Mount Royal University. My academic background has given me a solid foundation in key areas, including human development, mental health concerns, and therapeutic interventions.

I am a member of the Psychological Association of Alberta (PAA) and the College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP).

Why did you decide to become a therapist?

I chose to become a therapist because of my deep curiosity about how humans think, feel, and navigate life's challenges. Growing up, I witnessed how different family members managed their own mental health concerns, which sparked my interest in understanding the complexities of emotional well-being and family dynamics. These experiences made me realize the importance of providing support and guidance to individuals facing their own struggles.

Additionally, the field of psychology is constantly evolving as a society, and our understanding of human behaviour progresses. This dynamic nature keeps me engaged and motivated, knowing there will always be new approaches and insights to help clients thrive. Being a therapist allows me to combine my passion for helping others with my commitment to continuous learning and growth.

What do you bring to your therapy sessions, and what are some goals?

My therapy approach is both compassionate and collaborative. I believe in meeting clients where they are and building a trusting therapeutic relationship grounded in empathy and authenticity. I tend to work from a strengths-based perspective, encouraging clients to identify their strengths and use them to navigate life’s challenges.

I bring a unique ability to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can openly explore their feelings and challenges. I am also direct and solution-focused, helping clients work through difficult emotions while equipping them with practical tools to manage their lives more effectively.

Who do you work with?

I primarily provide individual counselling to adults over the age of 18 years old.

I also offer support to couples and address relationship concerns. Helping partners improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections is a crucial aspect, as healthy relationships contribute significantly to overall well-being.

Why are you passionate about what you do?

From a young age, I understood the value of having a safe space to express emotions and work through challenges. This realization inspired me to pursue a career where I could help others find clarity and healing through conversation and self-reflection.

What inspires me most is witnessing the resilience of my clients. Whether it's helping someone recover from trauma, manage anxiety, or build self-esteem, I am honoured to be part of their journey toward healing. My passion lies in creating a therapeutic environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives.

What do you do in your spare time?

In my free time, I stay active by going to the gym and playing sports, which enhances both my physical and mental well-being. I love to travel, as it allows me to experience new cultures and broaden my perspective. Spending quality time with friends and family is important to me, helping me maintain balance and strengthen relationships. These activities recharge me, giving me a fresh outlook and renewed energy that I bring to my work as a therapist, enabling me to provide the best care for my clients.

What is a skill that you are currently working on?

One skill I am currently working on is time management, particularly as I prepare for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). Balancing my study schedule with professional responsibilities, personal life, and maintaining both physical and mental well-being requires a great deal of organization and discipline. I am focusing on structuring my time effectively to ensure that I can give adequate attention to each area without feeling overwhelmed.

What motivates or inspires you?

I am motivated by a desire to improve myself and embrace new experiences. I believe personal growth comes from challenging myself and stepping outside my comfort zone. Whether trying a new sport, exploring different cultures, or learning new skills, I look for opportunities that enrich my life.

Creating meaningful memories is essential to me as well. I aim to fill my life with diverse experiences that contribute to my personal development and strengthen my connections with others. This commitment to growth and exploration keeps me engaged and encourages me to make the most of each day.

What are your additional areas of clinical interest?

I have a strong interest in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and understanding its impact on their lives. Addressing trauma is essential for personal healing and growth, and I am dedicated to providing compassionate support as clients navigate their journeys.

Additionally, I have a keen interest in conducting formal assessments, which offer valuable insights that inform treatment planning and help clients achieve their therapeutic goals.

Additional Qualifications

Your qualifications, such as certifications and licenses, are not just titles—they’re proof of your commitment and expertise in mental health.

• I completed my practicum as a student counsellor at the Centre of Newcomers, where I provided both individual and group counselling services to clients facing a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Working with adults from various cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, I gained valuable experience in diverse settings.
• My experience included conducting comprehensive intake assessments, developing personalized counselling plans, and facilitating group therapy sessions. I utilized Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) to help clients identify and change unhelpful thinking patterns, develop coping skills, and work towards meaningful goals.
• I am a member of the Psychological Association of Alberta (PAA) and the College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP).

What's one podcast that you like and why?

Joe Dispenza. I love his approach to rewire the brain to help get rid of limiting beliefs

What's one podcast that you like and why?

My favourite podcast is Rotten Mango, a true crime podcast that examines various compelling cases. I appreciate its thoughtful approach to storytelling, as the hosts skillfully balance engaging narratives with insightful analysis of the psychological and social factors behind each crime:

What's one quote that you like and why?

"Happiness is to be found along the way, not at the end of the road, for then the journey is over, and it is too late" - Robert Updegraff

Available for:

Anxiety-related symptoms (GAD, Phobia, Panic, Social, etc.) | BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder) | Depression | Exposure Therapy | Inter-generational trauma | Grief and Loss | Building boundaries | Attachment concerns | PTSD | Self Esteem | Stress and Burnout | Boundary Adherence | Life Changes | Grief | Stress & Burnout | and much more...