Christina Bell | registered psychologist in Edmonton Alberta | Meet Christina

Christina Bell, Registered Psychologist

Member of:

  • The College of Alberta Psychologists (no. 3687)

  • The Psychological Association of Alberta

I’ve got a thank-you card with Oprah’s name on it that’s about 20 years overdue.

I first remember wanting to become a psychologist when I saw one on Oprah as a teenager. I was fascinated by the idea that an expert could help you improve your life. I knew then what I wanted to be when I grew up.

The long road to becoming a psychologist has been very gratifying. Part of the reason I believe so strongly in what I do is that I’ve seen the benefits of applying certain strategies to my own life. I’ve even been accused of being addicted to attending training and reading self-help books!

But being in the helping field, I think it’s very important to be open to pursuing my own therapy, and I believe that being “on the other side of the couch” has made me a better person and psychologist.

 
 

All Oprah jokes aside, I consider it a great honour to collaborate with clients to improve their lives. Like handprints, every client approaches me with a unique set of characteristics and strengths. Together, we engage in the process of change.

It can be scary to reach out for help. You—like everyone else—may fear you’re beyond help or incapable of change. But I can tell you this: in my 20+ years in the field, I have learned that change is not always easy, but it is always possible.

Sometimes we just need someone to help guide and support us through the dark times. Our challenges can become our strengths, if we do the work. I’d be happy to share what I know about the process of change with you, and I’d be honoured to be your guide.

A few random facts about me:

1. My grandmother is my hero.
I’ve had the great blessing of having my grandmother’s stable presence throughout my life. Her resilience, candid nature, and devotion to her family is a constant source of inspiration to me.

2. I meditate daily.
I started meditating back in 2009 and it’s an essential part of my daily routine. Good physical health is also a foundational part of my life, which includes regular intense exercise, high quality sleep, and a low-carb diet.

3. I’m a recovering “busy” person.
For much of my life, I focused on achievements and kept very busy. Now I am working at slowing down to make more time for solitude, relationships, and “normal” pursuits like cooking.

4. I started my helping career as a Distress Line volunteer back in 2000!
This experience was transformative personally and professionally.