About Dr. Ganz

From Survival Mode to Living in my OPS (Optimal Performance State).

I just turned 60—and it took me 59 years to finally realize I’m not dumb. That might sound strange coming from someone with a Ph.D., decades of experience, and more letters after my name than I care to list. But the truth is, labels stick—especially the ones we hear early and often. "Dumb." "Sloppy." I heard those words in school, in church, and within the four walls of my own home. They became part of the story I told myself, no matter how much I achieved.

At just 5 years old, my Grade 1 teacher would often tip my desk over while I was still sitting in it, right in front of the entire class—simply because of the color of my skin and because I was advanced for my age. When I came home, hoping for comfort or understanding, my parents doubled down with the message that it was my fault.Later, in junior high, my dad warned me that if I didn’t outwork everyone and get top grades, he would publicly humiliate me in front of the whole school with the backing of another abusive teacher. That moment sealed the message: excellence wasn’t an option—it was survival.

Years later, I found myself alone in a hotel room, mistaking a panic attack for a stroke. Decades of overwork, travel, and trying to be everything for everyone had caught up with me. I was raised to believe that success meant sacrificing myself. But I’ve learned—often the hard way—that you can’t truly serve others if you’re running on empty.

The Fine Print & Fancy Bio With Mostly Serious Things.

Hi, I’m Dr. Ganz Ferrance—Registered Psychologist, Speaker, Author, and Coach. I’ve spent over 30 years helping high performers not lose their minds (or their marriages) while trying to do it all. With 28+ years in private practice, I’ve worked with everyone from CEOs and entrepreneurs to oil and gas workers, RCMP officers, and even fourth-generation gang members in Chicago. Yes, you read that right—Chicago. And yes, I lived to tell the tale.

I specialize in cutting through the noise and getting to what actually works when you're under pressure. Whether you're running a company, leading a family, or just trying to keep your head above water, I bring real tools, real talk, and the occasional well-timed dad joke.

I’ve got the academic chops too—a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, an M.A. in Developmental and Educational Psychology, and enough university-level teaching experience to know when someone’s zoning out. I also served as Public Education Director and Vice-President of the Psychologists' Association of Alberta, and I’ve provided mental health support for industries where “suck it up” is the unofficial job description—like oil and gas.

I wrote a book called The ME Factor: Your Systematic Guide to Getting What the HELL You Want, because I believe personal growth shouldn’t come with a side of boredom. And I’ve been honored with awards like the John C. Patterson Media Award, the Rosalina Smith Award, and the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Special Service Award.

You may have caught me on CBC’s The National, CTV’s Good Morning Canada, or one of my many media spots over the last 20+ years—including monthly segments on 880 CHED, CTV News, Alberta Primetime, and the Corus Radio Network. Apparently, people like to hear what I have to say. And I’m grateful for that.
At the end of the day, I’m here to help you stop running on fumes and start living with intention—without losing your edge, your health, or your sense of humor.

Therapy or Coaching?

If you're going through a harder moment right now, therapy may be a better place to start—and that's more than okay. Coaching works best when you're feeling emotionally steady and ready to look ahead. If what you need right now is more immediate support, please visit Asked Dr Ganz Therapy. You deserve care that meets you with compassion.