MEET THE TEAM
Dennis
Clinical Co-Leader, PhD, RPsych
dennis@southportpsychology.com
(587) 392-7133
When I’m not working, my leisure tastes run from the exhilarating (mountain biking, jet skiing and motorcycle riding) to the sedate (fishing, wood working, or reading historical fiction), with quite a few stopping points in-between. For me, variety really is the spice of life! Happily, I live, work, and play with my favorite person (and my favorite dog), which makes many of these activities all the better!
About
I’m the founder of Southport Psychology, and have the privilege of leading this talented group of clinicians together with my wife and partner, Chantelle Klassen. Although I’m originally a BC boy, after completing an Honours Psychology undergrad degree at Trinity Western University, I moved to Calgary to pursue my MSc and PhD degrees at the University of Calgary. Since that move in 1989, Calgary has definitely become home! Over the years, I have worked in several roles as a clinical psychologist. I spent over 20 years working for Alberta Health Services, mostly on developing a model for integrating mental health clinicians into family physician offices. That model of care ultimately spread across Calgary and throughout rural Southern Alberta. I have been involved in research with skilled collaborators that led to the development of a clinical pathway for depression in primary care, and the development of a treatment protocol for adults who have been exposed to childhood trauma. I’ve been lucky enough to be able to present the results of this work in various journal articles and numerous conferences. My main professional role since I graduated, though, has always been that of a therapist. This is where I find inspiration, meaning, challenge and even fun. I started with a particular interest in people with depression and anxiety disorders, but over the years my focus has come to include addictions, trauma, marital therapy, men’s issues (like “what does it really mean for a man to be strong”), and coping with stress and loss. I was initially trained in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), but have found that adding some Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), narrative therapy, and Relational Life Therapy (RLT) has created the combination that really strikes the right notes with many clients. My personal belief is that none of us are “good” or “bad”. “Angels and demons” reside in all of us (not literally – you know what I mean), which leaves us all a bit complicated (if you don’t agree with me, I’m ok with that, but you might want to look a bit harder… just sayin’). We all grew up surrounded by an imperfect cast of characters, and have all been bumped around by life to some extent. In response to this, we all tend to cope in some healthy ways, and some not-so-healthy ways. As we grow up and grow old, I think our task is to understand what has happened to us, to come to some level of peace or acceptance with ourselves and/or others about what happened to us or what we did wrong in the past, and to find new ways of thinking, behaving, and relating to others that contribute to a growing sense of health, satisfaction, and joy. If that is what you’re looking for, I might be the right sort of therapist for you.
Chantelle
Clinical Co-Leader, MA, RPsych
chantelle@southportpsychology.com
(587) 391-7106
Fun fact: my first therapy job was working in a BC police station where I drove an undercover police car. In my down time I find great joy being with my loved ones, experimenting with interesting recipes (I use a lot of creative licence), puttering outside, or finding a body of water I can paddle on.
About
A bit about me... Growing up in BC, I obtained a first class, Honours B.A. in psychology from Simon Fraser University and completed my M.A. in counselling psychology from the University of British Columbia. Settling in Calgary shortly after graduation afforded me some amazing professional opportunities before finally finding my forever home with the Southport team. Prior to that, I’ve worked as a Registered Psychologist in public and private health care settings, outpatient, inpatient, and non-profit agencies in both urban as well as rural communities in the areas of assessment, research, therapy, and clinical supervision. In my various roles, I’ve remained curious about how our past informs our present and future in meaningful ways. I believe that sometimes we all get a little stuck on a version of ourselves, others, or past events that is no longer useful. Getting “unstuck” can make a meaningful shift in how we envision and activate ourseves, how we engage with others, and the ways we interact with our surroundings. I have a keen interest in identifying and reducing the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on our emotional and physical health. I’ve been fortunate to collaborate on research and clinical implementation of interventions aimed at reducing the long-term consequences of ACEs, and had the privilege of co-presenting ACEs research at several conferences nationally and internationally. More importantly, this allows me to integrate compassionately oriented and evidence-informed interventions with the clients I’m proud to serve. My most common areas of referral include PTSD, developmental/complex trauma, grief and bereavement, life transitions, workplace challenges, postpartum adjustment, anxiety and mood concerns, and establishing more effective communication habits with your partner. I have experience and training working with First Responders (Fire, EMT/EMS, Police, Veterans), and have volunteered for disaster response/critical incidents. Although I was initially trained as a trauma therapist and utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), I also find the approaches of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Relational Life Therapy (RLT) to be helpful models with many of my clients. I’ve always been interested in early intervention to prevent problems from taking root, thus I have advanced training and experience working with children and youth in the areas of trauma, grief, and adjustment.
Jenny
MC, RPsych
(587) 392-7137
When I’m not working I love to be outside walking, hiking, exploring Fish Creek Park, and in winter, tromping through deep snow with my dog. A fun fact about me…prior to becoming a psychologist I was a music teacher with a degree in classical singing. Feel free to ask me what my favourite opera aria was to perform!
About
I am a Registered Psychologist with a Master of Counselling Psychology from The Graduate Centre for Applied Psychology, Athabasca University. I have many years of practice supporting adults, children, and couples both in non-profit and in private practice settings. I am passionate about working with people who feel hijacked by their thoughts, emotions and behaviours, and with couples, who are finding it difficult to feel securely connected in their relationship. I focus my practice on OCD and other compulsive disorders (BDD, Trichotillomania, BFRB’s, Excoriation) and anxiety of all kinds. I also work with people experiencing low self-esteem/self-doubt, relationship difficulties, life transitions, adjustment concerns, PTSD, and trauma. Models of therapy I use include Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Emotion Focus Therapy (EFT) for couples, Relational Life Therapy (RLT), and I am Internal Family System-informed (IFS). To get unstuck in this journey of life, I believe we need compassion, psychological flexibility, and often the help of a fellow traveler. In therapy we work collaboratively so that you can gain new insight, experience healing, and find creative, workable ways to tackle difficult behavioural, emotional, or interpersonal problems.
Nicole
MC, RPsych
nicole@southportpsychology.com
(587) 391-2092
When I'm not in the therapy room, you may find me bird watching, making music, enjoying the Arts around the city, and spending time with my friends and family.
About
I’m a Registered Psychologist and obtained my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Calgary and Master's degree in Counselling Psychology from Athabasca University. It is very important to me to bring warmth, patience and gratitude into every therapy session and to foster an environment of trust and safety with all of my clients. Prior to supporting clients in private practice, I offered counselling and behaviour consultation services to clients of all abilities at a not-for-profit agency. I am well-versed in the short-term and long-term effects of trauma and am passionate about supporting clients on their journey to improved mental health and well-being. In addition to this, I also enjoy supporting clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and emotional burnout concerns. I have experience counselling teens, adults and seniors and am passionate about clients of all abilities and culturally diverse backgrounds. I believe we all possess the strength to overcome life's challenges and that counselling support can help to enhance these skills. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) but also incorporate elements of Mindfulness, Narrative and Solution Focused Therapy in my work. Through these modalities, I assist clients in reflecting on how past experiences can shape the way they currently view themselves, others, and the world. I believe that when we are able to understand the impact that previous experiences have had, we gain the insight to address current challenges as well as harness our strength and abilities to achieve our goals.
Jae
MA, RPsych
(587) 392-7134
While my and family friends are my greatest joy, I can also be found at the gym with my strength community or at my piano.
About
I’m a Registered Psychologist with an M.A. in Psychology with Honors, from the American Public University, Charles Town, West Virginia, graduating summa cum laude. I strive to create a safe and supportive space where clients can experience steady, genuine care in the therapy room with me. Fostering a compassionate, collaborative relationship with my clients, tailoring therapeutic practices to your unique challenges, circumstances, and goals are my top priorities with each client. With decades of training and experience in the helping profession, I integrate techniques from a variety of evidence-based theoretical orientations including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Client-Centred Therapy, Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), interpersonal and family therapy, existential and motivational therapy, narrative therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and solution-focused therapy. I enjoy working with adults, couples, and families and I warmly welcome persons of all cultures, races/ethnicities, faiths, abilities, identities, and orientations. Clinically, I support clients with the following concerns: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, and issues related to emotion regulation problems, relational conflict and trauma, and family difficulties. I have a particular passion for working in the area of sport psychology and performance. My other areas of focus include emotional burnout and life transitions, adjustment issues, stress management, neglect and abandonment, people-pleasing, chronic pain and fatigue, “Impostorism,” “Perfectionism,” anger, eating issues including weight concerns, body image, health and injuries, sleep, shame, self-esteem, sexuality, spirituality, and personality-related struggles.
Lindsay
MA, RPsych
lindsay@southportpsychology.com
(587) 392-7135
When I’m not supporting clients, you can find me at a country music concert, enjoying the outdoors, or working on a home design project! I purchased a fixer upper and was the primary designer for a full-scale renovation.
About
I’m a Registered Psychologist with an M.A. in Psychology with Honors, from the American Public University, Charles Town, West Virginia, graduating summa cum laude. I strive to create a safe and supportive space where clients can experience steady, genuine care in the therapy room with me. Fostering a compassionate, collaborative relationship with my clients, tailoring therapeutic practices to your unique challenges, circumstances, and goals are my top priorities with each client. With decades of training and experience in the helping profession, I integrate techniques from a variety of evidence-based theoretical orientations including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Client-Centred Therapy, Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), interpersonal and family therapy, existential and motivational therapy, narrative therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and solution-focused therapy. I enjoy working with adults, couples, and families and I warmly welcome persons of all cultures, races/ethnicities, faiths, abilities, identities, and orientations. Clinically, I support clients with the following concerns: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, and issues related to emotion regulation problems, relational conflict and trauma, and family difficulties. I have a particular passion for working in the area of sport psychology and performance. My other areas of focus include emotional burnout and life transitions, adjustment issues, stress management, neglect and abandonment, people-pleasing, chronic pain and fatigue, “Impostorism,” “Perfectionism,” anger, eating issues including weight concerns, body image, health and injuries, sleep, shame, self-esteem, sexuality, spirituality, and personality-related struggles.
Sarah
MA, RPsych
(587)-391-5370
When I’m not working, I love spending quality time with
my two little boys - exploring the outdoors, having family
adventures, or simply enjoying the little moments together. You’ll often find me at the dog park with our
energetic pup, embracing new challenges, or diving into personal growth and self-discovery
About
I am a Registered Psychologist with a Master’s in Education specializing in School and Applied Child Psychology from the University of Calgary. Originally from England, I earned my B.Sc. in Psychology before making Canada my home in 2008. I specialize in conducting comprehensive psychoeducational assessments for children, youth, and adults. These assessments are designed to identify and understand various psychological and educational challenges, providing a personalized foundation for effective treatment, strategies, and support. I take pride in delivering thorough, accurate, and holistic assessments tailored to each individual’s needs. In addition to my assessment services, I offer play-based therapy for children aged approximately 2 to 12. Children often struggle to understand and verbalize their emotions, making play the primary mode of communication. Play-based therapy fosters emotional wellness, enhances personal strengths, improves relationships, facilitates communication, and helps children process difficult events to gain a sense of control. It is an effective approach for addressing a wide range of childhood challenges, including trauma, anxiety, ADHD, bullying, social skills, OCD, attachment and adjustment issues, aggression, depression, low self-esteem, and perfectionism. I’ve always been passionate about supporting children and have worked with them in various capacities for over 20 years. My experience has allowed me to develop a natural affinity with them, and the ability to connect with kids on a deeper level. I love discovering each child’s unique personality and skills and finding creative ways to adapt to their interests and communication styles. Watching children grow, find their voice, and overcome challenges is one of the greatest joys of my work. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where they can express themselves, build confidence, and thrive. Every child brings something special, and I feel privileged to help them on their journey. My therapeutic approach is grounded in strength-based, solution-focused, and cognitive-behavioral principles, but my priority is always making sure that every interaction feels meaningful, supportive, and tailored to each child’s needs. Beyond my work with children, I also offer support for teenagers and adults facing anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, and life transitions. My services can be covered by the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program, which provides coverage to eligible First Nations and Inuit clients. I adopt a holistic approach, considering the multiple factors influencing behaviors or symptoms, and strive to provide interventions that address the whole person. My goal is to empower clients of all ages to overcome obstacles, face challenges and achieve emotional well-being so that you may flourish.
Tyler
PhD, RPsych
(587) 392-7136
Outside of my professional life, My interests include reading history, philosophy, and literature, especially works that wrestle with life’s big questions. I am a passionate sports fan, and also love good Texas-style barbecue and spending time with my wife and family, cherishing those moments of Hygge—the Danish term for simple pleasures with good company.
About
I’m a Registered Psychologist with a Doctoral Degree from McGill University. With years of experience, I have helped people navigate major loss and life transitions in various settings, including private practice, a university psychology clinic, and multiple hospital outpatient clinics. Before entering private practice in Calgary, I worked as a post-doctoral fellow with McGill University’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences for three years, focusing on supporting the psychological wellbeing of individuals living with cancer. My areas of clinical expertise include depression, anxiety, stress management, coping with chronic and life-limiting illnesses, psychotherapy for men, complex personality patterns, assertiveness training, and relationship difficulties. I also address existential concerns, such as fear of death and dying, struggles regarding freedom and responsibility, isolation, identity, and meaning in life. I believe that the purpose of therapy is to help a person explore their early experiences and the connection between their past and present. Rather than focusing on the past for its own sake, the goal is to identify ways in which past experiences shape current challenges and to use these insights to inform change. I enjoy working with adults of all ages including seniors. The therapeutic modalities I utilize in my practice include Existential Psychotherapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
John
MEd, RPsych
(403) 252-4056 -or- (587) 391-7894
Outside of my practice, I am deeply passionate about family, music, and my furry family members. I’ve been playing guitar and bass since the age of 14, and music continues to be an important part of my life and well-being.
About
With over thirty years of experience as a psychologist, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion, understanding, and respect. My approach is client-centred, drawing on Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to support each person’s unique goals and strengths. Throughout my career, I have worked with diverse populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness, gender diversity, severe and persistent mental illness, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance use concerns. I believe in meeting clients where they are, fostering resilience, and promoting meaningful change through collaboration and evidence-based care. Outside of my practice, I am deeply passionate about family, music, and my furry family members. I’ve been playing guitar and bass since the age of 14, and music continues to be an important part of my life and well-being.
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Nicole
MEd, RPsych
(403) 252-4056 -or- ((587) 358-0511
When I'm not in the office, you can usually find me exploring Calgary or hiking in the beautiful Rocky Mountains with friends and family. I enjoy baking and I recently moved to Calgary from Edmonton so exploring the culinary scene here has been quite enjoyable!
About
When I'm not in the office, you can usually find me exploring Calgary or hiking in the beautiful Rocky Mountains with friends and family. I enjoy baking and I recently moved to Calgary from Edmonton so exploring the culinary scene here has been quite enjoyable! I am a Registered Psychologist and I obtained my Bachelor of Science Degree in Honours Psychology from MacEwan University and my M.Ed in Counselling Psychology from the University of Alberta. I have previously worked at practices that specialized in working with OCD and other anxiety disorders. It’s an honour and a privilege to help support individuals navigate life’s challenges and I strive to provide a safe, calm, non-judgemental, supportive and empathetic space. I work with people aged 12+ and I have experience in supporting individuals with OCD, anxiety (social, generalized, health, panic attacks, phobias), depression, perfectionism, trauma, chronic pain, and self-esteem and body image concerns. I’ve helped many individuals break free from the OCD cycle and overcome maladaptive thinking patterns. I believe we all have the power to create the change we desire - and I’m here to support you on that journey. Therapy is collaborative and no two individuals are the same, which is why I draw from multiple modalities in my clinical work. The therapeutic modalities I use and am trained in include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I can help you gain insight and provide practical tools and strategies while working collaboratively with you to help you achieve your goals.
Min
MSc, RPsych
min.southportpsychology@gmail.com
(403) 252-4056
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults, and I specialize in conducting comprehensive psychological assessments
About
I am a Registered Psychologist with a Master of Science in School and Applied Child Psychology from the University of Calgary. Originally from South Korea, I moved to Halifax in 2005 and later relocated to Calgary to pursue my graduate studies. I am a bilingual speaker and can provide services both in English and Korean language. I have experience working in school-based settings, which has deepened my understanding of child and adolescent development in educational contexts. I’ve come to appreciate Calgary’s beautiful natural environment and the community here. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults, and I specialize in conducting comprehensive psychological assessments. My areas of expertise include (but are not limited to) ADHD, specific learning disorders, anxiety and mood disorders, OCD, and autism spectrum disorders. Comprehensive assessments help form a clear picture of an individual’s strengths and challenges, and they provide valuable insight into supports and strategies that can best meet their needs. I prioritize developing an accurate and thorough understanding of each client’s unique profile and dedicate significant care and attention to the process of differential diagnosis.
Lorri
Clinic Coordinator
(403) 252-4056 -or- (587) 392-7132
I truly enjoy interacting with people on a daily basis and helping them navigate their next steps at Southport Psychology. As evidence of this, you can often hear me saying to others: “Feel free to call me, I’m here to help.”
About
I’m the Clinic Coordinator and your first point of contact at Southport Psychology. I come from a long Alberta Health Services (AHS) career in both hospital Pharmacy and Public Health. After retiring from AHS in 2018, I worked as a Healthcare Navigator, helping clients across Canada access the care of specialists more rapidly. Following that role, I joined the Southport Psychology team in May of 2019 and have been supporting clients and therapists at the practice ever since. It is important to me that anyone that who enters our office feels welcome, comfortable and safe in our space. I value and maintain your confidentiality while also working to normalize the process of seeking out mental health assistance. I want your experience, from the initial call to the final visit, to feel as natural and comfortable as any other appointment you may have in your life.