Chris Austin, MSW, RCSW
Clinical Social Worker ~ Clinical Supervisor
Chris has been a mental health therapist and clinical supervisor for over 30 years, mostly in the public health care system, providing healing for children and adults, for settlers, new Canadians and Indigenous people. He is known for his insightful reflections and kind, safe way of being with people.
Chris works with individuals, couples and families. He is a lifelong learner, a student of human experience and a lover of nature. Chris is a devoted dad, including to a son with medical complexities and special needs. Chris is a husband, a son and a friend. In all of these relationships, he remains fascinated with stories – from building new narratives for people during life transitions to weaving metaphors that empower children.
Chris specializes in working with men around issues such as identity, relationships, parenting, workplace stress and transitions. This knowledge comes into play in working with individuals, couples or families. He works from a client-centred framework, integrating narrative, culturally-infused and trauma-informed approaches.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
When are you available?
I see clients Monday and Thursday evenings or virtually on Sunday mornings.
What are the fees?
I charge $180/hour and issue a receipt with my Registered Social Worker number. Fees can be reimbursed by extended health benefits – check with your plan for details – and can sometimes be written off on income tax as a medical expense.
What are your qualifications?
I completed my Master of Social Work (MSW) degree in 1995 and have been working as a Registered Clinical Social Worker ever since. I am also an Approved Clinical Supervisor with the Alberta College of Social Workers.
I have training in Play Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Trauma Therapy and Accelerated Resolution Therapy. I have also been an ASIST trainer and a speaker at conferences and in classrooms. I have authored several articles, most recently regarding a culturally and relationally respectful framework for clinical supervision in an Indigenous mental health program.
Do you offer clinical supervision?
Yes. I am an approved Clinical Supervisor with the Alberta College of Social Workers. I have worked as a Clinical Supervisor with the public health care system, supervising colleagues, practicum students, and social workers seeking approval for the Clinical Registry.
Where are you located?
My office address is 2016 – 12 Avenue NW in Calgary, also known as Mohkinstsis, the land where the Bow River meets the Elbow River. There is free parking on the street or in the lot behind the building. The Lion’s Park LRT station is 2 blocks away.
What is the best way to reach you?
Please call or text 587.896.9146 or email me at c-austin@shaw.ca.
