FAQ's

Choosing the right psychologist is an important step in your journey toward healing. Start by considering your specific needs and goals. Do you have a particular issue you want to address, such as anxiety, trauma, or relationship challenges? Each of our psychologists has unique specialties and approaches, so reviewing their profiles can be a great first step. Next, think about the type of connection you’d like to have. Some people prefer a more structured approach, while others appreciate a warm, conversational style. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions about our team members’ backgrounds and therapeutic methods. Lastly, trust your instincts! If you feel drawn to a particular psychologist, that’s a good sign. Remember, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable and supported.

Absolutely! We welcome referrals and appreciate you thinking of us for your loved ones. If you know someone who might benefit from our services, feel free to share our contact information or website. They can reach out to us directly to learn more about our team and the therapies we offer.

Yes, absolutely! We understand that finding the right psychologist is an important decision, and we encourage you to feel comfortable before committing to a session. We offer the option for a brief introductory chat with one of our psychologists. This conversation can help you get a sense of their approach and answer any questions you may have about the therapy process. Just reach out to our office, and we’ll be happy to arrange a time for you to connect.

It’s completely normal to wonder about the fit between you and your therapist! Finding the right therapeutic relationship is essential for your healing journey. If you feel that your therapist may not be the right match for you, we encourage you to speak up. Open communication is key. You can share your feelings and concerns during your sessions, and your therapist can help you identify what might not be working. If, after discussing it, you still feel uncomfortable, it’s perfectly okay to seek a different therapist. All the clinicians at Southport Psychology understand that every clinician can’t be a great fit for every client, and we really do want you to get what you need. Our practice is committed to your well-being, and we can assist you in finding a therapist whose style and approach will best suit your needs.

Your privacy is a top priority for us! We take multiple steps to ensure your personal information and the content of your sessions remain confidential. First and foremost, all our psychologists adhere to strict ethical guidelines and legal requirements regarding client confidentiality. This means that what you share in therapy stays between you and your psychologist, with very few exceptions (such as if there's an immediate risk of harm). We also use secure, encrypted systems for storing any digital records and conducting online sessions. Our office spaces are designed to maintain privacy during in-person meetings. If you ever have concerns about privacy, we encourage you to discuss them with your psychologist. They can explain our confidentiality policies in detail and address any specific worries you might have.

We aim to make payment as convenient as possible for you. We accept various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, e-transfers, and cash. Great news! We do offer direct billing for many insurance providers. This means we can often bill your insurance company directly, saving you the hassle of submitting claims yourself. However, the availability of direct billing depends on your specific insurance plan and provider. To find out if we can directly bill your insurance, just give us a call or send us an email with your insurance details. We'll be happy to check for you and explain the process. If direct billing isn't available for your plan, don't worry! We'll provide you with detailed electronic or paper receipts that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. Remember, it's always a good idea to check with your insurance provider about your coverage for psychological services.

Great question! Both registered and provisional psychologists are highly trained professionals committed to helping you, but there are a few key differences: - A registered psychologist has completed all their training and is fully licensed to practice independently. They've earned their doctorate or master's degree, completed supervised practical experience, and passed rigorous licensing exams. - A provisional psychologist, on the other hand, is in the final stages of their journey to full registration. They've completed their degree and are now gaining supervised experience under the guidance of a registered psychologist. Think of them as skilled professionals who are fine-tuning their expertise. Both can provide excellent care, but provisional psychologists work under supervision to ensure you receive the highest quality support. They often bring fresh perspectives and the latest research to their practice, and often offer their services at a reduced rate. And because they are working under the supervision of a very experienced psychologist, it’s sort of like getting two therapists in your corner instead of one! Rest assured, whether you choose to work with a registered or provisional psychologist in our practice, you'll receive compassionate, professional care tailored to your needs!

Welcome to the world of therapy! Taking this step is a courageous move towards self-improvement and well-being. Let's walk you through what you can expect on this journey. First off, rest assured - your first session is all about getting comfortable and getting to know each other. Your psychologist will warmly greet you and invite you into a cozy, private space where you can talk freely without fear of being overheard. During your initial meeting, your psychologist will ask about what brings you to therapy and what you hope to achieve. They might inquire about your background, current situation, and any symptoms you're experiencing. Remember, there's no pressure to share more than you're comfortable with - you're in control! You'll also have the chance to ask questions about the therapy process, the psychologist's approach, and anything else on your mind. Your psychologist will use his or her knowledge and skills to assist you and suggest strategies for making positive changes in your life. This may involve trying specific exercises (such as relaxation practices), developing new skills (such as communication strategies), or exploring new perspectives (such as changing the way you think about and react to situations in your life). There’s one really important idea to keep in mind, though. To be effective, therapy requires your active participation, effort, and perseverance, both in session and between sessions. It is important for you to provide input about problem areas you’d like to work on. Our psychologists are skilled, but we haven’t quite mastered mind reading yet. Your feedback about the topics being discussed and techniques being used will help your psychologist tailor therapy to your needs, which will increase the chance of you getting the kind of outcome you’re really hoping for. Remember, every person's therapy journey is unique. It's okay if it takes a few sessions to feel fully comfortable. The most important thing is that you feel supported and heard throughout the process. We're excited to be part of your journey towards better mental health and well-being!