Compassion Focused Counselling in Kilkenny

Photo of Dr. Michelle Hopkins Chartered Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Dr. Michelle Hopkins Chartered Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol PSI
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95  (Online Only)
I specialise in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), helping you explore your current difficulties (e.g., stress, anxiety, depression) within the context of unexpected significant life changes/events, attachment and relationship issues, trauma, and loss. By sharing psychological understanding, connecting past experiences to present difficulties, I can support you to work through and process your thoughts and feelings, identifying and changing unhelpful patterns of behaviour and coping.
I specialise in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), helping you explore your current difficulties (e.g., stress, anxiety, depression) within the context of unexpected significant life changes/events, attachment and relationship issues, trauma, and loss. By sharing psychological understanding, connecting past experiences to present difficulties, I can support you to work through and process your thoughts and feelings, identifying and changing unhelpful patterns of behaviour and coping.
(061) 572 524 x35 View (061) 572 524 x35
Photo of Sparrow Therapy Online, Psychotherapist in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Sparrow Therapy Online
Psychotherapist, MA, MIACP
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95  (Online Only)
Online therapy available for you where ever you are.
Online therapy available for you where ever you are.
(01) 267 6517 x59 View (01) 267 6517 x59
Photo of Samantha Mair, Psychotherapist in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Samantha Mair
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
I treat a variety of common mental health difficulties and life challenges (e.g. mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, complex trauma, relationships issues, stress, low self-esteem, perfectionist traits). Some people aren’t quite sure what’s going on for them, but something just doesn’t feel right. Whatever your struggle is, I want to help you to get your life on track, break out of unhelpful patterns of behaviour, and find meaning and satisfaction in life. I can offer you a safe and non-judgmental space to explore what it is that’s causing you difficulty, and an evidence-based approach to help you to finally move forward.
I treat a variety of common mental health difficulties and life challenges (e.g. mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, complex trauma, relationships issues, stress, low self-esteem, perfectionist traits). Some people aren’t quite sure what’s going on for them, but something just doesn’t feel right. Whatever your struggle is, I want to help you to get your life on track, break out of unhelpful patterns of behaviour, and find meaning and satisfaction in life. I can offer you a safe and non-judgmental space to explore what it is that’s causing you difficulty, and an evidence-based approach to help you to finally move forward.
087 342 6130 View 087 342 6130
Photo of Mary McCarthy, Counsellor in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Mary McCarthy
Counsellor, MSc, MIACP
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
Are you experiencing emotional pain in your life and feel overwhelmed, stressed or anxious? Do you feel like you are really struggling & need support? Have you issues around self esteem, confidence, relationships, bullying, workplace problems, Fertility, weight? If so, I understand & I can help you. To begin the healing process we will focus on your specific goals & give structure to the therapy. I will support you to learn new skills to deal with your problems. I am also a qualified Career Guidance Practitioner & work therapeutically with adolescents. As a HR professional I have years of experience dealing with workplace issues.
Are you experiencing emotional pain in your life and feel overwhelmed, stressed or anxious? Do you feel like you are really struggling & need support? Have you issues around self esteem, confidence, relationships, bullying, workplace problems, Fertility, weight? If so, I understand & I can help you. To begin the healing process we will focus on your specific goals & give structure to the therapy. I will support you to learn new skills to deal with your problems. I am also a qualified Career Guidance Practitioner & work therapeutically with adolescents. As a HR professional I have years of experience dealing with workplace issues.
(01) 568 2872 x79 View (01) 568 2872 x79
Photo of Dinan Counselling Service , Psychotherapist in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Dinan Counselling Service
Psychotherapist, MSc, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
Welcome. I am a Counsellor and Psychotherapist, qualified to work with both Adults and Adolescents. My previous career as a critical care nurse supports my work in this area as it broadens my understanding of the many needs of my client. Difficulties and distress can arise in anyone's life at any time. Even with the support of family and friends, it may still be difficult to cope and function effectively. Sometimes it may be easier to talk with an independent person. In therapy I can offer a safe, secure and empathic environment.
Welcome. I am a Counsellor and Psychotherapist, qualified to work with both Adults and Adolescents. My previous career as a critical care nurse supports my work in this area as it broadens my understanding of the many needs of my client. Difficulties and distress can arise in anyone's life at any time. Even with the support of family and friends, it may still be difficult to cope and function effectively. Sometimes it may be easier to talk with an independent person. In therapy I can offer a safe, secure and empathic environment.
(01) 263 0393 x53 View (01) 263 0393 x53
Photo of Peter Scanlon, Psychologist in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Peter Scanlon
Psychologist, CPsychol PSI
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
I’m an Associate Fellow and Chartered Counselling Psychologist with the Psychological Society of Ireland (memb. no. 087638). I am also an Associate Fellow and Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society (memb. no M4479C). With both the British Psychological Society and the Irish Psychological Society I am a Senior Practitioner on both their ‘Registers of Psychologists Specialising in Psychotherapy’. For more information see About - www.peterscanlon.com.
I’m an Associate Fellow and Chartered Counselling Psychologist with the Psychological Society of Ireland (memb. no. 087638). I am also an Associate Fellow and Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society (memb. no M4479C). With both the British Psychological Society and the Irish Psychological Society I am a Senior Practitioner on both their ‘Registers of Psychologists Specialising in Psychotherapy’. For more information see About - www.peterscanlon.com.
(01) 267 6675 x97 View (01) 267 6675 x97
Photo of Maryrose McCormack, Counsellor in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Maryrose McCormack
Counsellor, MIACP
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
Offering Individual and Couples Counselling in a warm an welcoming environment at The Haven Clinic in Kilkenny City & Carlow. Also offering appointments via video and phonecall from the comfort of your home.
Offering Individual and Couples Counselling in a warm an welcoming environment at The Haven Clinic in Kilkenny City & Carlow. Also offering appointments via video and phonecall from the comfort of your home.
(01) 267 6641 x58 View (01) 267 6641 x58
Photo of Olivia Anne Fahy, Psychotherapist in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Olivia Anne Fahy
Psychotherapist, MA, NAPCP
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95  (Online Only)
I am an integrative psychotherapist and counsellor who specializes in Person-Centred Therapy and Cognitive-Behavioural therapy in order to offer support and understanding to clients who wish to have a session in person or online through Zoom. I am a pre-accredited member of NAPCP and have graduated with an MA from Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences.
I am an integrative psychotherapist and counsellor who specializes in Person-Centred Therapy and Cognitive-Behavioural therapy in order to offer support and understanding to clients who wish to have a session in person or online through Zoom. I am a pre-accredited member of NAPCP and have graduated with an MA from Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences.
(01) 267 6570 x74 View (01) 267 6570 x74
Photo of Audrey Curran, Psychotherapist in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Audrey Curran
Psychotherapist, APPI
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
As an integrative therapist I draw on many different therapeutic modalities including CBT, Attachment and Psychodynamics. I offer a safe place to talk about difficult things with compassion and understanding. In a supportive and empathetic environment, I will facilitate you on your personal journey of growth at your own pace. Sometimes starting therapy is not easy but you can evoke meaningful change that will enable you to live a more fulfilling and productive way of life. Some people come to therapy with a specific problem, while others benefit from talking to a professional to gain a better understanding about their feelings.
As an integrative therapist I draw on many different therapeutic modalities including CBT, Attachment and Psychodynamics. I offer a safe place to talk about difficult things with compassion and understanding. In a supportive and empathetic environment, I will facilitate you on your personal journey of growth at your own pace. Sometimes starting therapy is not easy but you can evoke meaningful change that will enable you to live a more fulfilling and productive way of life. Some people come to therapy with a specific problem, while others benefit from talking to a professional to gain a better understanding about their feelings.
(01) 267 6527 x75 View (01) 267 6527 x75
Photo of Mary Brennan, Psychologist in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Mary Brennan
Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol PSI
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
If you find your thoughts, feelings and emotions are limiting your enjoyment to engage fully in life because of past experiences, life's demands, uncertain Covid-19 times; you may need to talk to a trained professional to enable you to get experienced psychological support I work from the viewpoint of seeing each client as unique and autonomous providing a safe, confidential, non judgemental, respectful, supportive space to explore areas of concern at your own pace. This process enables you to explore different perspectives, develop coping skill in order for you to realise your full potential and improve your quality of life.
If you find your thoughts, feelings and emotions are limiting your enjoyment to engage fully in life because of past experiences, life's demands, uncertain Covid-19 times; you may need to talk to a trained professional to enable you to get experienced psychological support I work from the viewpoint of seeing each client as unique and autonomous providing a safe, confidential, non judgemental, respectful, supportive space to explore areas of concern at your own pace. This process enables you to explore different perspectives, develop coping skill in order for you to realise your full potential and improve your quality of life.
(01) 267 6675 x83 View (01) 267 6675 x83
Photo of Diamond Counselling, Counsellor in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Diamond Counselling
Counsellor, MIACP
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
At Diamond Counselling I offer a warm and confidential setting for you to explore personal issues, find clarity and discover ways of making a change in your life. Providing a space where you are accepted and accompanied on your journey towards insight, healing and growth. As an integrative therapist, I respect the unique needs and goals of each client and adapt my approach accordingly. I endeavour to support individuals in their experiences and challenges while also helping them to recognise their resilience and true potential. I work with adults/adolescents online and face-to-face in Carlow.
At Diamond Counselling I offer a warm and confidential setting for you to explore personal issues, find clarity and discover ways of making a change in your life. Providing a space where you are accepted and accompanied on your journey towards insight, healing and growth. As an integrative therapist, I respect the unique needs and goals of each client and adapt my approach accordingly. I endeavour to support individuals in their experiences and challenges while also helping them to recognise their resilience and true potential. I work with adults/adolescents online and face-to-face in Carlow.
(01) 267 6675 x46 View (01) 267 6675 x46
Photo of Aisling O'Connor, Counsellor in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Aisling O'Connor
Counsellor, MIACP
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
I am a qualified counsellor and an accredited member of IACP. I work with clients in a person-centred way, focusing on the lived experience and current challenges that each person brings to the therapy space and integrating a variety of therapeutic approaches.
I am a qualified counsellor and an accredited member of IACP. I work with clients in a person-centred way, focusing on the lived experience and current challenges that each person brings to the therapy space and integrating a variety of therapeutic approaches.
087 791 0560 View 087 791 0560
Photo of Reflective Recovery , Counsellor in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Reflective Recovery
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
I am David Gahan a licensed psychotherapist ( Pre Accredited ) with a decade of experience specializing in the treatment of survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse. My therapeutic approach combines empathy with evidence-based techniques, emphasizing pragmatic solutions as required. Clients aspire to reclaim agency over their lives, achieve psychological balance, and cultivate resilience. Their motivations extend beyond personal healing, encompassing the improvement of interpersonal relationships. My role as therapists is to provide the requisite tools, techniques, and guidance to facilitate these objectives.
I am David Gahan a licensed psychotherapist ( Pre Accredited ) with a decade of experience specializing in the treatment of survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse. My therapeutic approach combines empathy with evidence-based techniques, emphasizing pragmatic solutions as required. Clients aspire to reclaim agency over their lives, achieve psychological balance, and cultivate resilience. Their motivations extend beyond personal healing, encompassing the improvement of interpersonal relationships. My role as therapists is to provide the requisite tools, techniques, and guidance to facilitate these objectives.
(01) 267 6595 x93 View (01) 267 6595 x93
Photo of Sinéad Maria Hyland, Counsellor in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Sinéad Maria Hyland
Counsellor, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
As a therapist my aim is to provide a safe, welcoming and confidential space in which we can work together to explore the reasons you have come to counselling. Those reasons vary from person to person and may include, anxiety, grief, loss, stress, depression, relationship issues, difficulty with trust, trauma, low self-esteem or coping with change in an increasingly changing world. Together, we can explore these issues and learn to break free of limiting patterns and beliefs that may be holding you back and take steps to move forward in life with greater ease and peace.
As a therapist my aim is to provide a safe, welcoming and confidential space in which we can work together to explore the reasons you have come to counselling. Those reasons vary from person to person and may include, anxiety, grief, loss, stress, depression, relationship issues, difficulty with trust, trauma, low self-esteem or coping with change in an increasingly changing world. Together, we can explore these issues and learn to break free of limiting patterns and beliefs that may be holding you back and take steps to move forward in life with greater ease and peace.
(01) 267 6675 x72 View (01) 267 6675 x72
Photo of Trish Carroll, Psychotherapist in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Trish Carroll
Psychotherapist, MA, APCP
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95  (Online Only)
Therapy is food for the soul ! You can disclose what you feel comfortable talking about at your own pace in a confidential, safe, private space. Many people come to therapy to help with current struggles or past experiences, but many also attend just to maintain a good mindset. Each person’s life experience is different and as we know sometimes it can be challenging, therefore talking can help to clear our minds, uncover our struggles, and understand our emotions. Therapy can be challenging, but it can also be very rewarding. Everyone deserves to be heard and supported. Looking forward to meeting you :)
Therapy is food for the soul ! You can disclose what you feel comfortable talking about at your own pace in a confidential, safe, private space. Many people come to therapy to help with current struggles or past experiences, but many also attend just to maintain a good mindset. Each person’s life experience is different and as we know sometimes it can be challenging, therefore talking can help to clear our minds, uncover our struggles, and understand our emotions. Therapy can be challenging, but it can also be very rewarding. Everyone deserves to be heard and supported. Looking forward to meeting you :)
(01) 267 6527 x68 View (01) 267 6527 x68
Photo of Essential Counselling, Counsellor in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Essential Counselling
Counsellor, APCP
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a fully qualified and accredited psychotherapist and counsellor. Sometimes it can be difficult to make the decision to come to counselling and to make that first contact. Counselling can be a very positive and worthwhile experience. I am here to listen to you in a non judgemental way so that you feel safe to talk openly about any issue you may be experiencing.
I am a fully qualified and accredited psychotherapist and counsellor. Sometimes it can be difficult to make the decision to come to counselling and to make that first contact. Counselling can be a very positive and worthwhile experience. I am here to listen to you in a non judgemental way so that you feel safe to talk openly about any issue you may be experiencing.
089 446 3132 View 089 446 3132
Photo of Abbeywell Therapy, Psychotherapist in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Abbeywell Therapy
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
I am an integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist with a strong creative and enthusiastic style is based out of a person centered approach. I use numerous supportive models and approaches interchangeably in dynamic response to the Client’s needs as they arise within session. I operate from my private practice “Abbeywell” from the beautiful town of Graiguenamanagh on the Kilkenny/Carlow Border. I regularly travels nationwide to provide emotional debriefing sessions for frontline healthcare professionals. I also has an established video counselling service if traveling is limited
I am an integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist with a strong creative and enthusiastic style is based out of a person centered approach. I use numerous supportive models and approaches interchangeably in dynamic response to the Client’s needs as they arise within session. I operate from my private practice “Abbeywell” from the beautiful town of Graiguenamanagh on the Kilkenny/Carlow Border. I regularly travels nationwide to provide emotional debriefing sessions for frontline healthcare professionals. I also has an established video counselling service if traveling is limited
(01) 267 6622 x26 View (01) 267 6622 x26
Photo of NorthStar Counselling & Therapy Centre, Counsellor in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
NorthStar Counselling & Therapy Centre
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
At NorthStar Counselling & Therapy Centre we are a leading clinic in the field of Child & Adolescent Therapy. We have a team of professional, caring, mental health therapists who provide an excellent service to the community of County Wexford and all the Southeast. We provide therapeutic support for all mental health conditions of children, teens and adolescents from age 4 - 24.
At NorthStar Counselling & Therapy Centre we are a leading clinic in the field of Child & Adolescent Therapy. We have a team of professional, caring, mental health therapists who provide an excellent service to the community of County Wexford and all the Southeast. We provide therapeutic support for all mental health conditions of children, teens and adolescents from age 4 - 24.
087 330 9994 View 087 330 9994
Photo of Judy Ferguson, Psychotherapist in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Judy Ferguson
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
We can all feel a bit stuck sometimes... I offer a safe space to help make meaning and process what we are thinking and why. I work with adults mainly 40s-60s negotiating lifes changing dynamics as their parents age, or own children grow up. I work with adults moving into midlife, issues around self-esteem and finding purpose following covid with a new work/life balance. I also work with clients with difficulties in relationships parenting, anxiety and overwhelm, low mood, loss and bereavement and generally how to do life again, process trauma and pts and learning to feel safe.
We can all feel a bit stuck sometimes... I offer a safe space to help make meaning and process what we are thinking and why. I work with adults mainly 40s-60s negotiating lifes changing dynamics as their parents age, or own children grow up. I work with adults moving into midlife, issues around self-esteem and finding purpose following covid with a new work/life balance. I also work with clients with difficulties in relationships parenting, anxiety and overwhelm, low mood, loss and bereavement and generally how to do life again, process trauma and pts and learning to feel safe.
View
Photo of Claire Moloney, Psychologist in Kilkenny, County Kilkenny
Claire Moloney
Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol PSI
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with thirty years experience. I provide consultations on mental health issues including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, abuse, trauma, PTSD, bereavement, OCD, self-harm, psychosis, suicidality, grief, loss, anger, addiction, violence, personality disorder, work-related problems, bullying, psychosis, bipolar disorder, stress, shame and confidence issues. Trained in CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, CRM and MBT. I am recognised by VHI, Laya, Corkmarket and Irish Life for up to 50% rebates of consultation fee. Consultations available re concerns about the mental health of a family member or employee.
I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with thirty years experience. I provide consultations on mental health issues including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, abuse, trauma, PTSD, bereavement, OCD, self-harm, psychosis, suicidality, grief, loss, anger, addiction, violence, personality disorder, work-related problems, bullying, psychosis, bipolar disorder, stress, shame and confidence issues. Trained in CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, CRM and MBT. I am recognised by VHI, Laya, Corkmarket and Irish Life for up to 50% rebates of consultation fee. Consultations available re concerns about the mental health of a family member or employee.
087 430 9669 View 087 430 9669

See more therapy options for Kilkenny

Compassion Focused Counsellors

How does compassion-focused therapy work?

Compassion-Focused Therapy is based on the idea that humans have at least three emotion regulation systems, including one that responds to threats and another that allows us to self-soothe. Those who experienced serious childhood adversity, the theory goes, have a hyperactive threat system and an underperforming self-soothing system, leaving them vulnerable to shame and a hypercritical mindset. CFT focuses on bringing these systems back into balance, helping the client be kinder to themselves and better able to accept kindness from others.

Is compassion-focused therapy a type of CBT?

Compassion-focused therapy is closely related to cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and employs many of its techniques. In addition to CBT, CFT also draws from the fields of biology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and Buddhism. It also has similarities to some types of trauma-focused therapies.

Is compassion-focused therapy evidence based?

Evidence suggests that CFT can be helpful in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. It has also been shown to be beneficial for individuals who may not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but who still struggle with persistent self-criticism and feelings of shame.

What are the limitations of compassion-focused therapy?

Compassion-focused therapy is still a relatively new therapy, and research on its efficacy is still in its early stages; while some studies have found positive results, many have suffered from quality issues or small sample sizes. And while most CFT clients find it difficult to practice self-compassion at first, some—especially those who actively fear compassion or are deeply uncomfortable being cared for—may not be fully open to the tenets of CFT, potentially limiting the therapy’s long-term effectiveness.