Frequently asked questions

Your first appointment is a chance for us to get to know you and for you to have the space to express your experiences. In your first appointment, held at one of our mental health clinics in the West of Scotland, we will talk about your background, history, and the challenges or reasons that have brought you to us.

Psychologists registered with the HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) are highly trained mental healthcare professionals. Unlike counselling therapists, who focus mainly on talking therapy and supportive listening, HCPC-registered psychologists complete doctoral-level training and are legally regulated to provide specialist assessments, diagnoses, and evidence-based treatments.

 
This means they can work with complex difficulties across the lifespan, offering a deeper level of expertise and accountability to ensure the highest standards of care.

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication, with a holistic mind-body approach to mental health treatment. Our psychologists have psychology degrees and are trained to provide specialist assessments and evidence-based post-diagnostic support. There can be some overlap in approaches; for example, both psychologists and psychiatrists can be trained in psychodynamic talking therapy.

The number of sessions varies from person to person and depends on your needs, goals, and also on the type of service you are accessing. For some, a few focused sessions may be enough, while others benefit from longer-term support.

When there is prescribing and medication management, this usually requires periodic ongoing sessions to ensure safe and effective care. Your clinician will discuss this with you at the start and review progress regularly in collaboration with you.

Currently, we work with WPA, Cigna and Vitality. For all other providers, please do check with your insurance firm before getting in touch.