Clifton Pinder
M.A., Registered Provisional Psychologist
Clifton has been a Registered Provisional Psychologist in Alberta since 2025, with seven years prior counselling experience in British Columbia. He is now serving Edmonton, building on his experiences working in settings such as a hospital palliative care unit, a First Nation reserve, a K-12 school, and programs supporting high-risk youth. Clifton's diverse background includes roles as an army medical assistant and a Search & Rescue team member.
Clifton tailors his approach using evidence-based frameworks such as CBT, ACT, narrative therapy, and family systems therapy, creating a trauma-informed and safe space for clients to explore challenges and work toward goals. Clifton has also completed training in neuro-affirming supports for diverse populations, training in couples and family therapy models, and is able to complete psychological assessments.
Clifton is a devoted husband, father of five, and grandfather of nine, and integrates a faith-based perspective for those who are seeking this; he models deep respect and compassion for people of all backgrounds in his practice.
About my practice
Neuro-Affirming Mental Health Counselling
Having completed ‘Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist’ training, my background involves working with children, youth, and adults through mindfulness-based, attachment, and trauma-informed frameworks. These sessions often incorporate a variety of materials and methods, ranging from traditional talk therapy to movement, art, or play.
Support is also available for those navigating the weight of depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, or the complexities of strained relationships.
Because neurodiversity is a core value in my practice, the focus remains on helping you manage stress, increase productivity, and resolve conflicts. The ultimate goal is to explore your personal milestones, find a sense of balance, and foster a life defined by well-being and satisfaction. Whatever concerns are on your mind, I am here to discuss the possibilities and paths forward.
Couples and Family
Relationships are often challenging, sometimes involving painful experiences that can feel impossible to recover from. Parenting adds complexity, frequently leaving families stuck in cycles of criticism, blame, or defensiveness. While these reactions fuel anger and shame, it remains possible to rebuild and reconnect more deeply through openness, commitment, and professional guidance.
Incorporating ‘Gottman Method Couples Therapy’ allows for a structured approach to identifying problem areas through a fresh lens. Providing practical strategies is central to this work, helping your family function more cohesively. By fostering better communication and active engagement, we can resolve conflicts and promote shared understanding. The goal is to move closer to the meaningful, satisfying relationships you are seeking.
Psychological Assessment
Using questionnaires, structured interviews, observational tools, collateral information, and other standardized instruments, I provide: diagnostic assessments for adult/older adolescent ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ages 16 years+).
These assessments are individualized based on the referral question and scope of evaluation. Assessments always start with a 1 hour consultation to review consents, discuss the referral question, and determine the scope of the evaluation.
For a separated or divorced family, consent is required from both parents before proceeding with a child. A comprehensive report is provided at the end of the assessment process, answering the referral question, and providing recommendations on further supports.
Costs will vary depending on the complexity of the evaluation and a detailed estimate will be provided after the initial consultation.
Credentials
Credentials
Clifton has been a Registered Provisional Psychologist in the province of Alberta since 2025. He began counselling in BC from 2017 until 2025 as a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, a provincial certification, and as a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, a national certification.
His education includes:
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M.A. in Counselling Psychology, University of Victoria, 2016
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B.A. double major: Psychology and First Nations Studies, 2004
Clifton is a member in good standing of the following professional organizations:
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College of Alberta Psychologists (Provincial)
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BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (Provincial)
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Canadian Psychological Association (National)
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Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (National)
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International Critical Incident Stress Foundation, Inc. (International)