About
Over the past few years, I have dedicated myself to the field of Counselling and Psychotherapy, practising in both Cork City and Ballina, Co. Mayo. My journey into this profession took a different path than I might have expected. Following my secondary school education in Mayo, I spent over 15 years working in Dublin, immersed in FMCG retail sales and management. During that time, I worked hard to develop my skills in leadership and the development of sales teams for large multinational food and confectionary companies.
However, life had a way of redirecting me. In my mid-thirties, I reached a pivotal moment where my own mental health struggles took my attention. It was a time when I needed to pause, reflect, and take stock of my life. Collaborating closely with my GP, I received a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder (Clinical Depression) and Anxiety in 2010. Throughout my healing, I had the privilege of working with exceptional counsellors and psychotherapists who showed me the power of self-acceptance and compassion. Learning to embrace my true self became a transformative experience, allowing me to find genuine happiness and peace in myself.
During my recovery process, I delved deeper into the realm of mental health, realising how it impacts every aspect of our lives without discrimination. Returning to the corporate world, I soon recognised that my true fulfilment lay elsewhere. I began exploring ways to nurture the part of me that was deeply fascinated by human nature, the intricacies of the mind, and the profound desire to make a positive difference in people’s lives. Volunteering my time to support and engage with individuals facing their own challenges opened my eyes to the widespread prevalence of mental and emotional struggles.
It was through these experiences that I discovered my genuine passion—to empower individuals to live their lives to the fullest and provide support during times of hardship and suffering. Motivated by this calling, I pursued and successfully completed a B.Sc (Hons) Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy and I am a fully accredited member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP)
Training and Qualifications
I am a fully trained and qualified Counsellor and Psychotherapist with a Bachelor of Sciences Honours Degree from PCI College Cork in conjunction with Middlesex University in the UK. I also hold a Specialist Diploma in Neurodiversity Informed Psychotherapy, a Certificate in Relationship and Couples Therapy with a Certificate in Psychosexual Therapy.
I am a fully accredited member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP)
In my pursuit of professional growth, I have undertaken further continuous professional training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for managing Anxiety and Depression. Mindfulness-Based Approaches, Bereavement, Grief, Loss and Change, Relationship and Couples Therapy, Family Issues, Effective Anger Management and Stress Management. LGBTQ+ informed and affirming therapist.
I have received training specific to and possess comprehensive knowledge regarding Sex and Intimacy, encompassing topics such as Fantasies, Fetishes, Kink, Polyamory, Chemsex, Pornography, Sexual dysfunction, and Men’s Issues.
Additionally, I specialise in facilitating Personal Development, addressing concerns related to Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem.
Approach
I offer counseling that’s rooted in the Humanistic approach and focuses on building a strong connection with my clients. I draw from a range of theories like Person-Centered, Transactional Analysis, Attachment, Complex Trauma, Gestalt, and Polyvagal Theory.
To enhance our sessions, I also incorporate Mindfulness, which helps clients live more consciously in the present, letting go of the past and worrying less about the future.
Most importantly, I genuinely believe that our therapeutic relationship is key and brings the most value to our time together.