About
Altera means the alternative
The name was not chosen at random: it stands for that other path, the one that helps you find your balance again.
Our virtual and mobile clinic grew out of one fundamental belief: we can make a real difference in people’s lives simply by taking the time to show them they are capable.
Altera is a caring space, built for everyone who does not see themselves (or does not feel comfortable) in the setting of traditional therapy.
The approach
Back to the roots: shared lived experience
With Altera, we want to return to psychoeducation as it was first practised.
Psychoeducation grew out of an approach anchored in reality: going directly into a person’s own environment and doing things with them. We put that shared lived experience first. Rather than discussing your challenges in the abstract, we are with you in the action.
What we aim for is a therapeutic context that creates a slight imbalance. It is precisely in that zone, easing gently out of your usual bearings, that you can build new tools to find your balance again.
Formats
Doing things differently
We believe support does not have to happen within the four walls of an office.
That is why we draw on movement, on nature and on psychoeducational activities to help you settle back into your body. So that we can fit your reality, our meetings come in flexible formats.
Outdoors
Active walk and talk sessions to break isolation, and group workshops to get moving again and draw on the therapeutic benefits of the environment. This is nature- and adventure-based intervention.
At home
Direct support in your own living environment, ideal if leaving the house is difficult.
Online
An accessible option if you live further away, or if you are juggling a very full schedule.
The founder
Camille Arcand
A psychoeducator for six years and a member in good standing of the Ordre des psychoéducateurs et psychoéducatrices du Québec (OPPQ).
Over the course of my practice I have had the privilege of supporting people through every stage of their development (early childhood, childhood and adolescence). For the past two years I have devoted my days almost entirely to adults navigating mental health challenges and trauma.
I founded Altera out of a deep wish to help differently, and to widen access to nature-based intervention and to care for trauma. So that I can support you better, I am currently specialising in both of those fields.
I look forward to walking alongside you.
Wherever you are starting from
There is an alternative. Write and tell us what brings you here.
Or call directly: 438-403-6597