LGBTQ+ Affirming Counselling in Blackrock

Photo of Stephen Madden, Psychotherapist, MSc, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Stephen Madden
Psychotherapist, MSc, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I believe my greatest strength as a therapist is working with clients who experience shame and struggle with self-esteem. Helping people to recover from chronic self-doubt and to find genuine connection and meaningful outlets for self-expression is my biggest passion in therapy. The journey of accepting and fully becoming oneself is exciting and exhilarating at times, and watching clients leaving depressive and anxious patterns behind and starting to feel that they genuinely like themselves is the work that I most enjoy and I believe comes most naturally to me.
I believe my greatest strength as a therapist is working with clients who experience shame and struggle with self-esteem. Helping people to recover from chronic self-doubt and to find genuine connection and meaningful outlets for self-expression is my biggest passion in therapy. The journey of accepting and fully becoming oneself is exciting and exhilarating at times, and watching clients leaving depressive and anxious patterns behind and starting to feel that they genuinely like themselves is the work that I most enjoy and I believe comes most naturally to me.
(01) 267 6622 x73 View (01) 267 6622 x73
Photo of Ruth Crean, Counsellor, APCP
Ruth Crean
Counsellor, APCP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I predominantly work with the LGBTQ, Neurodivergent, and Polyamorous communities.
I'm a late diagnosed AuDHDer and I'm passionate about providing Neuro-affirming therapy to the LGBTQ+ community. Though I work with all couples, I focus on working with both the Kink and Polyamorous community, as they are under served by mainstream therapy.I have over a decade of volunteer experience in both communities, and came to this work to provide a safe therapeutic space for folks who need affirming practitioners to help them navigate their relationship needs. I have just completed a GSRD diploma to expand my clinical knowledge in working with my community. Other areas: chronic illness, fat positive, and sex worker positive
I predominantly work with the LGBTQ, Neurodivergent, and Polyamorous communities.
I'm a late diagnosed AuDHDer and I'm passionate about providing Neuro-affirming therapy to the LGBTQ+ community. Though I work with all couples, I focus on working with both the Kink and Polyamorous community, as they are under served by mainstream therapy.I have over a decade of volunteer experience in both communities, and came to this work to provide a safe therapeutic space for folks who need affirming practitioners to help them navigate their relationship needs. I have just completed a GSRD diploma to expand my clinical knowledge in working with my community. Other areas: chronic illness, fat positive, and sex worker positive
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Photo of Silvana Sapyras Byrne, Psychologist, CPsychol PSI
Silvana Sapyras Byrne
Psychologist, CPsychol PSI
Blackrock, County Dublin A94
I am a Chartered Psychologist of the Psychological Society of Ireland with 20 years of experience specializing in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). I provide culturally sensitive and neurodiversity-affirmative psychotherapy for adults in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, offering both online and in-person sessions tailored to individual needs. My practice is inclusive, supporting people from diverse cultural backgrounds and neurodiverse clients. I focus on empowering individuals by recognizing their unique strengths, fostering personal growth, and ensuring a safe space for well-being.
I am a Chartered Psychologist of the Psychological Society of Ireland with 20 years of experience specializing in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). I provide culturally sensitive and neurodiversity-affirmative psychotherapy for adults in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, offering both online and in-person sessions tailored to individual needs. My practice is inclusive, supporting people from diverse cultural backgrounds and neurodiverse clients. I focus on empowering individuals by recognizing their unique strengths, fostering personal growth, and ensuring a safe space for well-being.
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Photo of Eleonora Zuliani, MSc
Eleonora Zuliani
Verified Verified
Online Only
If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, or the effects of challenging past experiences, I offer a supportive space to better understand what you are going through and work toward meaningful change. My approach helps you reconnect with yourself holistically, on a mind-body level, to develop practical tools, and gently address patterns that may no longer serve you, so you can move toward greater balance, resilience, and alignment with your values. Sessions are available in English and Italian.
If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, emotional overwhelm, or the effects of challenging past experiences, I offer a supportive space to better understand what you are going through and work toward meaningful change. My approach helps you reconnect with yourself holistically, on a mind-body level, to develop practical tools, and gently address patterns that may no longer serve you, so you can move toward greater balance, resilience, and alignment with your values. Sessions are available in English and Italian.
(01) 267 6603 x94 View (01) 267 6603 x94
Photo of Eoin Duggan, Psychotherapist, MA, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Eoin Duggan
Psychotherapist, MA, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you are struggling with issues related to relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, loneliness, neurodivergence, major life changes, low self-esteem, assertiveness, or stress, or would like to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences, I offer a reliable, safe, confidential, client-centred environment, and the supportive, therapeutic relationship you might be looking for.
If you are struggling with issues related to relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, loneliness, neurodivergence, major life changes, low self-esteem, assertiveness, or stress, or would like to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences, I offer a reliable, safe, confidential, client-centred environment, and the supportive, therapeutic relationship you might be looking for.
(061) 572 524 x29 View (061) 572 524 x29
Photo of Emma Calio', Psychotherapist, MSc, IFPP
Emma Calio'
Psychotherapist, MSc, IFPP
Serves Area
I am an Adult Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist in clinical practice for over 30 years. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings within the mental health sector including hospitals and day- services. My broad range of experience includes working with psychiatric diagnoses such as psychosis and borderline personalities and with those affected by anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, relationship difficulties, bereavement and traumatic and post traumatic disorders. I provide a safe and non judgemental space for you to speak about any concern and anxiety you may have yourself or within relationship at work or at home.
I am an Adult Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist in clinical practice for over 30 years. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings within the mental health sector including hospitals and day- services. My broad range of experience includes working with psychiatric diagnoses such as psychosis and borderline personalities and with those affected by anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, relationship difficulties, bereavement and traumatic and post traumatic disorders. I provide a safe and non judgemental space for you to speak about any concern and anxiety you may have yourself or within relationship at work or at home.
(01) 568 2872 x11 View (01) 568 2872 x11
Photo of Dee Mc Kiernan, Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol PSI
Dee Mc Kiernan
Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol PSI
Serves Area
Over 15 years experience as a Senior Chartered Psychologist, Clinical Supervisor (C.Psychol.,Ps.S.I) and Clinical Lead. I specialise in supporting adults coping with Cancer, Health Related Issues, Grief, Loss, Bereavement, Women's Health, Psycho-oncology, Relationship difficulties, Distress & Anxiety. I also work with existential issues & transitional life phases often brought on by these events, along with stress, body issues, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions.
Over 15 years experience as a Senior Chartered Psychologist, Clinical Supervisor (C.Psychol.,Ps.S.I) and Clinical Lead. I specialise in supporting adults coping with Cancer, Health Related Issues, Grief, Loss, Bereavement, Women's Health, Psycho-oncology, Relationship difficulties, Distress & Anxiety. I also work with existential issues & transitional life phases often brought on by these events, along with stress, body issues, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions.
087 622 5011 View 087 622 5011
Photo of Blathnaid Connolly, Psychotherapist, MA, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Blathnaid Connolly
Psychotherapist, MA, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Serves Area
I am an Integrative & Humanistic Psychotherapist and work with couples and individuals. I offer a compassionate, confidential space for my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings and what prompted them to seek psychotherapy. When working with my clients, I draw on a range of approaches including psychodynamic, existential, and emotionally focused therapy to adapt to their needs. My work is rooted in respect, authenticity, and the belief that lasting change happens through a trusting therapeutic relationship. I collaborate and work with my clients to explore why they have taken the brave step into therapy.
I am an Integrative & Humanistic Psychotherapist and work with couples and individuals. I offer a compassionate, confidential space for my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings and what prompted them to seek psychotherapy. When working with my clients, I draw on a range of approaches including psychodynamic, existential, and emotionally focused therapy to adapt to their needs. My work is rooted in respect, authenticity, and the belief that lasting change happens through a trusting therapeutic relationship. I collaborate and work with my clients to explore why they have taken the brave step into therapy.
(01) 267 6536 x87 View (01) 267 6536 x87
Photo of Laura Campbell - Laura Campbell Psychotherapy , Psychotherapist, MIACP
Laura Campbell Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MIACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you carrying the weight of past experiences or struggling to feel safe in the present? You're not alone. So many of us are unknowingly operating from a dysregulated nervous system. Therapy offers a secure, confidential space to gently process trauma, reconnect with yourself, and begin healing at your own pace—with the hope of feeling more grounded and regulated from within.
Are you carrying the weight of past experiences or struggling to feel safe in the present? You're not alone. So many of us are unknowingly operating from a dysregulated nervous system. Therapy offers a secure, confidential space to gently process trauma, reconnect with yourself, and begin healing at your own pace—with the hope of feeling more grounded and regulated from within.
(01) 267 6634 x12 View (01) 267 6634 x12
Photo of Paula Coughlan, Psychotherapist, MSc, MIACP
Paula Coughlan
Psychotherapist, MSc, MIACP
Online Only
I help people who feel overwhelmed by stress, caught in anxiety, or weighed down by low mood. Many clients come to therapy wanting to feel more like themselves again or to understand why things feel so difficult. My work is about creating space to explore these feelings safely and at your own pace.
I help people who feel overwhelmed by stress, caught in anxiety, or weighed down by low mood. Many clients come to therapy wanting to feel more like themselves again or to understand why things feel so difficult. My work is about creating space to explore these feelings safely and at your own pace.
(01) 267 6622 x88 View (01) 267 6622 x88
Photo of Pradeep Kumar Chadha, Psychiatrist
Pradeep Kumar Chadha
Psychiatrist
Serves Area
“Overactive” busy minds have difficulty slowing down. I see it everyday. Having genes for a mental illness does not guarantee having one. Exposure to traumas is also needed to cause a disturbance in transmitters and hormones in the body. I help a person when they are looking for help in reducing psychiatric medications or before taking them. My experience involves helping a person process their traumas to heal them emotionally. In Walsh protocol , food supplements are prescribed instead of psychotropic medications that participate in hormonal and neurotransmitter metabolism. I can speak English, Hindi/ Urdu and Punjabi.
“Overactive” busy minds have difficulty slowing down. I see it everyday. Having genes for a mental illness does not guarantee having one. Exposure to traumas is also needed to cause a disturbance in transmitters and hormones in the body. I help a person when they are looking for help in reducing psychiatric medications or before taking them. My experience involves helping a person process their traumas to heal them emotionally. In Walsh protocol , food supplements are prescribed instead of psychotropic medications that participate in hormonal and neurotransmitter metabolism. I can speak English, Hindi/ Urdu and Punjabi.
(01) 267 6536 x99 View (01) 267 6536 x99
Photo of Jennifer Marshall, Psychotherapist, MA, APPI
Jennifer Marshall
Psychotherapist, MA, APPI
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I have worked in a variety of clinical settings within the mental health sector including hospitals and student counselling services. My broad range of experience includes working with psychiatric diagnoses and those affected by anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, ruminating thoughts, relationship difficulties, bereavement, loneliness and isolation. I have a particular interest in women's mental health with a specific interest in pregnancy related issues, motherhood and pre/post natal depression.
I have worked in a variety of clinical settings within the mental health sector including hospitals and student counselling services. My broad range of experience includes working with psychiatric diagnoses and those affected by anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, ruminating thoughts, relationship difficulties, bereavement, loneliness and isolation. I have a particular interest in women's mental health with a specific interest in pregnancy related issues, motherhood and pre/post natal depression.
(01) 267 6536 x76 View (01) 267 6536 x76

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kevin Gaynor, Psychotherapist, MA
Kevin Gaynor
Psychotherapist, MA
Dublin, County D03
I am a dedicated psychotherapist with a strong interest in trauma, bereavement, addiction, and identity, offering an integrative approach that draws on multiple therapeutic models to meet each client’s unique needs. My practice is guided by the belief that real change happens through authentic relationships, deep empathy, and the creation of a safe space where clients can explore their experiences, heal, and grow.
I am a dedicated psychotherapist with a strong interest in trauma, bereavement, addiction, and identity, offering an integrative approach that draws on multiple therapeutic models to meet each client’s unique needs. My practice is guided by the belief that real change happens through authentic relationships, deep empathy, and the creation of a safe space where clients can explore their experiences, heal, and grow.
(01) 267 6641 x14 View (01) 267 6641 x14
Photo of Michelle Kelly, Counsellor, MIACP
Michelle Kelly
Counsellor, MIACP
Dublin, County D06
I will accompany you as you strive to gain insight into your feelings and behaviours, and remain attentive to you as you examine and explore your concerns. I will support you in developing and enhancing your coping skills, with the ultimate aim of enhancing your emotional well-being. I provide a calm and confidential setting in which you can feel safe enough to begin to explore the presenting issues that are of concern to you. My work is aimed at raising self-understanding and awareness so that, ultimately, life choices can be made from a position of increased personal insight.
I will accompany you as you strive to gain insight into your feelings and behaviours, and remain attentive to you as you examine and explore your concerns. I will support you in developing and enhancing your coping skills, with the ultimate aim of enhancing your emotional well-being. I provide a calm and confidential setting in which you can feel safe enough to begin to explore the presenting issues that are of concern to you. My work is aimed at raising self-understanding and awareness so that, ultimately, life choices can be made from a position of increased personal insight.
(01) 267 6595 x45 View (01) 267 6595 x45
Photo of Thomaz Lopes, Psychologist, MSc, MPSI
Thomaz Lopes
Psychologist, MSc, MPSI
Online Only
Stop feeling stuck on autopilot. Let's build habits that work. Are you tired of the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it? Whether it’s procrastination, burnout, or patterns that keep you stuck, I help you move beyond 'autopilot' to regain control. I combine psychological insight (MSc ABA) with practical strategies to help you rewire your daily routines. We won’t just talk about why you feel stuck; we will build a step-by-step plan to change how you live and work.
Stop feeling stuck on autopilot. Let's build habits that work. Are you tired of the gap between knowing what to do and actually doing it? Whether it’s procrastination, burnout, or patterns that keep you stuck, I help you move beyond 'autopilot' to regain control. I combine psychological insight (MSc ABA) with practical strategies to help you rewire your daily routines. We won’t just talk about why you feel stuck; we will build a step-by-step plan to change how you live and work.
(01) 233 7180 x74 View (01) 233 7180 x74
Photo of Adeny Laurent Costa Silva, Psychotherapist, MSc
Adeny Laurent Costa Silva
Psychotherapist, MSc
Serves Area
You may be feeling anxious, emotionally overwhelmed, stuck in difficult patterns, or struggling with relationships, self-esteem, or life changes. Sometimes emotions can feel confusing, especially when life seems “fine” on the surface. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, and life transitions, including the emotional impact of immigration, loneliness, and adapting to life in a new country.
You may be feeling anxious, emotionally overwhelmed, stuck in difficult patterns, or struggling with relationships, self-esteem, or life changes. Sometimes emotions can feel confusing, especially when life seems “fine” on the surface. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, and life transitions, including the emotional impact of immigration, loneliness, and adapting to life in a new country.
(01) 267 6622 x45 View (01) 267 6622 x45
Photo of Gerard O'Dea, Psychotherapist, MA, APCP
Gerard O'Dea
Psychotherapist, MA, APCP
Dublin, County D01
My counselling practice has mainly centred around LGBTQ+ issues and neurodiversity.
Life challenges and mental health issues can be exacerbated by feelings of shame, invalidation, and isolation. The first step toward addressing these challenges is talking them out. I provide counselling and psychotherapy sessions with a humanistic, integrative approach, taking the time to respect the individuality of each client and create a safe, empathetic, and non-judgemental space. Well done on taking the first step and for reaching out. I welcome the opportunity to encourage and empower you on your therapeutic journey and personal growth.
My counselling practice has mainly centred around LGBTQ+ issues and neurodiversity.
Life challenges and mental health issues can be exacerbated by feelings of shame, invalidation, and isolation. The first step toward addressing these challenges is talking them out. I provide counselling and psychotherapy sessions with a humanistic, integrative approach, taking the time to respect the individuality of each client and create a safe, empathetic, and non-judgemental space. Well done on taking the first step and for reaching out. I welcome the opportunity to encourage and empower you on your therapeutic journey and personal growth.
(01) 267 6603 x18 View (01) 267 6603 x18
Photo of Conor Doyle, Psychotherapist, MSc, MIAHIP
Conor Doyle
Psychotherapist, MSc, MIAHIP
Dublin, County D02
Hello and welcome. Are you stressed, lost, anxious? Going through divorce? Life brings many experiences our way, some good and some bad. The emotional impact of these experiences can be frightening or confusing. Our family have a lot of influence on us, how we behave, how we talk, and how we communicate. Loss, grief, and anxiety are natural responses and processing our emotions is an essential part of living a healthy life.
Hello and welcome. Are you stressed, lost, anxious? Going through divorce? Life brings many experiences our way, some good and some bad. The emotional impact of these experiences can be frightening or confusing. Our family have a lot of influence on us, how we behave, how we talk, and how we communicate. Loss, grief, and anxiety are natural responses and processing our emotions is an essential part of living a healthy life.
085 262 1690 View 085 262 1690
Photo of Paul Flannery, Psychotherapist, MA, MIAHIP
Paul Flannery
Psychotherapist, MA, MIAHIP
Dublin, County D02
When we are suffering we tend to look at all that is wrong in our lives. We sometimes make judgements and assumptions about ourselves or our situations that focus mainly on the negative. We each have developed ways of being in the world that have enabled us to cope with whatever challenges we have had to face. These coping strategies become our defence mechanisms and are often developed by us at an early age when we had few resources. They can sometimes create negative patterns of relating to others and the world around us and become barriers to intimate or professional relationships.
When we are suffering we tend to look at all that is wrong in our lives. We sometimes make judgements and assumptions about ourselves or our situations that focus mainly on the negative. We each have developed ways of being in the world that have enabled us to cope with whatever challenges we have had to face. These coping strategies become our defence mechanisms and are often developed by us at an early age when we had few resources. They can sometimes create negative patterns of relating to others and the world around us and become barriers to intimate or professional relationships.
(01) 267 6536 x65 View (01) 267 6536 x65
Photo of Thom Sherry
Thom Sherry
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm from Dublin and now live in London. I have over 20 years experience as a Psychotherapist and Psychosexual Therapist. I work with a range of people presenting with complex difficulties. Such as ADHD , bipolar disorder, BPD, Anxiety, Depression, relationship difficulties, sexual problems , low self esteem, self doubt , imposter syndrome and more. I'm here to help you understand the labels given by yourself and others, and how they form part of your self-belief system , which can be supportive or undermining. How this can impact relationships, career and mental health.
I'm from Dublin and now live in London. I have over 20 years experience as a Psychotherapist and Psychosexual Therapist. I work with a range of people presenting with complex difficulties. Such as ADHD , bipolar disorder, BPD, Anxiety, Depression, relationship difficulties, sexual problems , low self esteem, self doubt , imposter syndrome and more. I'm here to help you understand the labels given by yourself and others, and how they form part of your self-belief system , which can be supportive or undermining. How this can impact relationships, career and mental health.
(01) 263 0393 x39 View (01) 263 0393 x39
LGBTQ+ Counsellors
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialised training, either during their degree programme or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalisation in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialised training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.