This page is here to help you understand how I work, what to expect from counselling with me, and some important practical details. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

 

My approach to counselling is based in psychodynamic and psychoanalytic thinking, with a strong influence from the person-centred tradition.

This means that I believe many of our present struggles are shaped by unconscious patterns developed in early life — especially in close relationships. These patterns can affect how we relate to others, how we see ourselves, and how we respond emotionally to different situations. In therapy, we work together to bring these patterns into awareness so they can be better understood, worked through, and, where needed, changed.

At the same time, I value the person-centred qualities of warmth, empathy, and respect. I aim to create a space where you feel safe to explore your experience at your own pace, without judgment or pressure.

The Therapeutic Relationship

In psychodynamic work, the relationship between client and therapist is not just a background to the work — it is often a central part of the process itself. This is because the emotional patterns you’ve developed over time may start to play out within the therapy relationship too.

This is known as transference. You might find yourself reacting to me — or to the counselling space — in ways that feel familiar from earlier relationships in your life. For example, you might feel judged, rejected, overly dependent, or even angry without knowing why. These reactions aren’t wrong — they’re deeply meaningful. When we explore them together, they can reveal important insights about how you’ve learned to relate to others and protect yourself emotionally.

This can sometimes feel challenging or confusing, but it can also be a powerful part of healing. We work through these moments gently, with curiosity and care, using the therapy relationship itself as a place to deepen your self-understanding and develop new ways of relating.

 

Scope of Service & Disclaimer

Counselling offers a supportive, non-judgmental space to explore thoughts, feelings, and patterns in a confidential setting. However, please note that my services are not a substitute for medical or psychiatric care, and I am not able to offer emergency or crisis intervention support.

If you are in immediate distress or facing a mental health crisis, please contact emergency services or a crisis helpline in your area.

Crisis Support & Suicidal Thoughts

I do not provide crisis counselling or 24/7 emergency support.

If you are feeling suicidal or overwhelmed and need immediate help, please reach out to your local crisis centre.

You can also go to your nearest hospital emergency department or speak with your GP.

 

Or text 50808: a free 24/7 text service, providing everything from a calming chat to immediate support for people going through a mental health or emotional crisis - big or small. From breakups or bullying, to anxiety, depression and suicidal feelings, the Crisis Volunteers are available 24/7 for anonymous text conversations. Their aim is to provide immediate support in the short term and connect people to resources that will help them in the future. The service is funded by the Health Service Executive (HSE).

 

Pieta provides a professional one-to-one therapeutic service to people who are in suicidal distress, those who engage in self-harm, and those bereaved by suicide. All of our services are provided free of charge and no referral is needed.

Telephone 1800 247 247  TEXT "Help" to 51444

Confidentiality & Its Limits

Everything shared in our sessions is treated with care and confidentiality. However, there are a few important exceptions:

  • If I believe you or someone else is at serious risk of harm

  • If I am required by law to report certain concerns (e.g. child protection)

If any of these situations arise, I will do my best to discuss it with you before taking any action.

Cancellations & Missed Sessions

Sessions are 50 minutes long and must be paid in advance.

  • Cancellations made with more than 24 hours’ notice: No charge. I may be able to offer an alternative time.

  • Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice or missed sessions: Charged at the full session fee.

Thank you for respecting this time and helping me manage my schedule fairly for all clients.

Data & Privacy

I store client information securely and in line with GDPR guidelines. Your personal data is never shared or sold. Notes (if kept) are brief and stored safely offline or encrypted. You can request to view or delete your data at any time.

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