Cleaning up the physical scars of the 2013 flood was one thing. But healing the emotional ones is another. However the Calgary Counselling Centre is showing great progress is helping High River residents with the healing. Photo - Al Gimblett - Dynamic Photography.

Counselling for High River residents following the June 2013 floods is working.

That according to the latest numbers from the Calgary Counselling Centre.

So far, 286 people have taken advantage of the service and Centre CEO Dr. Robbie Babins-Wagner says most of those people came to them in the last year, and they expect even more in the years ahead.

"After trauma, including a natural disaster, people decide to come to counselling at different times. The research tells us we should expect to see people coming for counselling up to eight years after an event. So we're only at the two year mark."

Babins-Wagner says the three big things they're seeing are anxiety, stress and a sense of loss, but with counselling most clients are seeing a significant decrease in their symptoms.

The study says:

Although many people are no longer receiving counselling services, The Calgary Counselling Centre still has 388 active clients in counselling as a result of the distress experienced during the flood.

This is not surprising considering the UK Health Protection Agency report titled: The Effects of Flooding on Mental Health states that the trauma experienced by individuals and families can remain high for two to eight years post flood.

Using the Centre’s Feedback Informed Treatment (FIT) process, which uses a questionnaire designed to track a client’s progress, their emotional vital signs if you will, we found treatment for our clients improved the mental health of those affected by the flood.

“We found that overall our client’s level of distress significantly decreased from the first session to their last session,” explains Calgary Counselling Centre CEO, Dr. Robbie Babins-Wagner. “The success of these outcomes are attributable to our clients’ commitment to our programs, the effectiveness of our FIT process, and the dedication from our counsellors to improve the lives of their clients.”

“Although we’ve been able to help a large number of people, the flood has left a lasting impact on the mental and emotional well-being of residents in High River and Calgary,” Babins-Wagner explains. “With the proven link between flooding and mental health issues, the effects of the flood could be felt for years to come. It is very important that people who are experiencing some form of distress reach out for help.”

If you're in need of help, or simply want to find out more information go to the Centre's website at:

calgarycounselling.com