Chronic Illness Counselling in Ranelagh

Photo of Ray Bourke, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Ray Bourke
Psychotherapist, MIACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you’re someone who looks like you’re coping on the outside, but inside feels overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected, this might be for you. Many of the people who reach out to me say some version of the same thing: “I’m holding everything together, but it’s getting harder. I don’t really know what I need, just that something isn’t working anymore.” You might be putting others first, struggling to set boundaries, or feeling unsure of what you think or feel. On the outside, you may seem “fine,” but inside, you’re carrying more than you know how to manage.
If you’re someone who looks like you’re coping on the outside, but inside feels overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected, this might be for you. Many of the people who reach out to me say some version of the same thing: “I’m holding everything together, but it’s getting harder. I don’t really know what I need, just that something isn’t working anymore.” You might be putting others first, struggling to set boundaries, or feeling unsure of what you think or feel. On the outside, you may seem “fine,” but inside, you’re carrying more than you know how to manage.
(01) 263 0393 x50 View (01) 263 0393 x50
Photo of Nessa Childers, Psychotherapist, MSc, IFPP
Nessa Childers
Psychotherapist, MSc, IFPP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
It is hard to describe what psychotherapy is really like. One of us, Jonathan Shedler describes it well. "We are changing life patterns. There is no path from Point A to Point B that does not traverse the unknown Real transformation occurs when patient and therapist can enter and embrace that unknown Perhaps it is like ancient sailors setting out to sea in search of a new and distant land—but uncertain how far they might have to travel before they once again set foot on solid earth, or what they might find when they get there" There is no substitute for meeting face to face though. And proceeding or not from there.
It is hard to describe what psychotherapy is really like. One of us, Jonathan Shedler describes it well. "We are changing life patterns. There is no path from Point A to Point B that does not traverse the unknown Real transformation occurs when patient and therapist can enter and embrace that unknown Perhaps it is like ancient sailors setting out to sea in search of a new and distant land—but uncertain how far they might have to travel before they once again set foot on solid earth, or what they might find when they get there" There is no substitute for meeting face to face though. And proceeding or not from there.
(01) 267 6681 x75 View (01) 267 6681 x75
Photo of Nivek Dunne, Psychologist, PsychD, MPSI
Nivek Dunne
Psychologist, PsychD, MPSI
Online Only
Facing cancer, addiction, or challenges at school can feel overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting. You may be looking for understanding, clarity, and a space where you don’t have to hold everything together. With specialist experience in oncology, adolescent support, and addiction treatment, I help clients navigate fear, uncertainty, low mood, anxiety, trauma, and identity changes with warmth and evidence-based care. Together, we work towards coping, confidence, emotional balance, and hope — so you can rebuild, recover, and move forward with strength.
Facing cancer, addiction, or challenges at school can feel overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting. You may be looking for understanding, clarity, and a space where you don’t have to hold everything together. With specialist experience in oncology, adolescent support, and addiction treatment, I help clients navigate fear, uncertainty, low mood, anxiety, trauma, and identity changes with warmth and evidence-based care. Together, we work towards coping, confidence, emotional balance, and hope — so you can rebuild, recover, and move forward with strength.
(01) 267 6675 x20 View (01) 267 6675 x20
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 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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Caitriona King, Psychotherapist, PhD, ICP
Caitriona King
Psychotherapist, PhD, ICP
Dublin, County D09
Troubled, conflicted, anxious or distressed? Struggling with loss or identity issues? Feel a relationship is in difficulty or things are not going well at home, work or college? Perhaps you are struggling to cope after receiving a medical diagnosis or wondering why you became ill in the first place? Going to therapy allows you to talk about what you are experiencing, explore reasons, develop solutions and help you attain a stronger, more fulfilled and creative self. An important part is sharing your innermost thoughts and feelings in a safe, non-judgemental therapeutic relationship with a specially trained therapist.
Troubled, conflicted, anxious or distressed? Struggling with loss or identity issues? Feel a relationship is in difficulty or things are not going well at home, work or college? Perhaps you are struggling to cope after receiving a medical diagnosis or wondering why you became ill in the first place? Going to therapy allows you to talk about what you are experiencing, explore reasons, develop solutions and help you attain a stronger, more fulfilled and creative self. An important part is sharing your innermost thoughts and feelings in a safe, non-judgemental therapeutic relationship with a specially trained therapist.
(01) 267 6689 View (01) 267 6689
Photo of Jean Burke, Psychotherapist, MSc
Jean Burke
Psychotherapist, MSc
Blackrock, County Dublin A94
The people I work with are used to holding a great deal together for others, often with little space for themselves. Many work in high-pressure roles, including healthcare, education, and senior leadership, and have reached a point where something has to give. Others are navigating serious illness, bereavement, or a loss that has shifted something fundamental. Therapy offers a space to pause and regain perspective, especially when this has been building over time.
The people I work with are used to holding a great deal together for others, often with little space for themselves. Many work in high-pressure roles, including healthcare, education, and senior leadership, and have reached a point where something has to give. Others are navigating serious illness, bereavement, or a loss that has shifted something fundamental. Therapy offers a space to pause and regain perspective, especially when this has been building over time.
(01) 233 7903 x57 View (01) 233 7903 x57
Photo of Dr. Caroline Burrow, Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Dr. Caroline Burrow
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life can feel heavy when stress, loss, or past wounds keep showing up. You may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or held back—and long for more calm, confidence, and connection. I offer a safe, supportive space to be heard and understood, make sense of what’s difficult for you, and explore new ways of coping. With warmth and respect, we’ll reflect on your experiences, nurture resilience, and reconnect with what matters most—helping you navigate life’s challenges and move toward balance, growth, and possibility.
Life can feel heavy when stress, loss, or past wounds keep showing up. You may feel overwhelmed, stuck, or held back—and long for more calm, confidence, and connection. I offer a safe, supportive space to be heard and understood, make sense of what’s difficult for you, and explore new ways of coping. With warmth and respect, we’ll reflect on your experiences, nurture resilience, and reconnect with what matters most—helping you navigate life’s challenges and move toward balance, growth, and possibility.
(01) 267 6641 x85 View (01) 267 6641 x85
Photo of Nicole Charalambous - Nicole Charalambous, Counsellor, APCP
Nicole Charalambous
Counsellor, APCP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m passionate about helping people. My aim is to help people identify their underlying problems and to work towards the abilities, talents, and power that each person has. As a Psychotherapist, I maintain Person-Centred and Integrative approaches. I consider the therapeutic relationship between me and the client to be a vital tool for our work together.
I’m passionate about helping people. My aim is to help people identify their underlying problems and to work towards the abilities, talents, and power that each person has. As a Psychotherapist, I maintain Person-Centred and Integrative approaches. I consider the therapeutic relationship between me and the client to be a vital tool for our work together.
(01) 267 6675 x11 View (01) 267 6675 x11
Photo of Blathnaid Connolly, Psychotherapist, MA, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Blathnaid Connolly
Psychotherapist, MA, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Dublin, County A96
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 Joe Kelly, Psychotherapist, MA, MIAHIP
Joe Kelly
Psychotherapist, MA, MIAHIP
Dublin, County D02
My clients tend to be thoughtful, reflective people who feel something in their lives is no longer working as it once did. They may be experiencing anxiety, burnout, relationship difficulties, or a sense of disconnection from themselves or others. Often they are navigating demanding work, identity questions, or the emotional shifts that come with parenting and major life transitions. They are usually looking for a space to think more deeply about their experiences, understand long-standing patterns, and move toward a more grounded and meaningful way of living.
My clients tend to be thoughtful, reflective people who feel something in their lives is no longer working as it once did. They may be experiencing anxiety, burnout, relationship difficulties, or a sense of disconnection from themselves or others. Often they are navigating demanding work, identity questions, or the emotional shifts that come with parenting and major life transitions. They are usually looking for a space to think more deeply about their experiences, understand long-standing patterns, and move toward a more grounded and meaningful way of living.
(01) 263 0393 x67 View (01) 263 0393 x67
Photo of Susan Kelly - Inspiration Counselling, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Inspiration Counselling
Psychotherapist, MIACP
1 Endorsed
Clondalkin, County Dublin D22
Welcome to Inspiration Counselling & Psychotherapy, Founded in 2016. Inspiration Counselling & Psychotherapy provides professional counselling ,psychotherapy, and clinical supervision . We offer a safe compassionate , and confidential space were individuals can explore challenges , gain clarity, and work towards healing and personal growth. We are committed to waking along side you with empathy, professionalism and understanding every step of the way.
Welcome to Inspiration Counselling & Psychotherapy, Founded in 2016. Inspiration Counselling & Psychotherapy provides professional counselling ,psychotherapy, and clinical supervision . We offer a safe compassionate , and confidential space were individuals can explore challenges , gain clarity, and work towards healing and personal growth. We are committed to waking along side you with empathy, professionalism and understanding every step of the way.
(01) 267 6681 x46 View (01) 267 6681 x46
Photo of Maeve Burke, Psychotherapist, MA, APPI
Maeve Burke
Psychotherapist, MA, APPI
Dublin, County D02
Life can be challenging and can bring hardships, conflict and pain. Often people seek therapy at a moment of crisis where they want change in their lives. Psychotherapy offers the possibility for an individual to explore various aspects of their life and be listened to in a way that is rarely possible with family or friends. My experience includes working with psychiatric diagnoses, those affected by issues and symptoms of anxiety, stress, depression, bereavement, addiction, relationship issues, questions of gender and sexuality.
Life can be challenging and can bring hardships, conflict and pain. Often people seek therapy at a moment of crisis where they want change in their lives. Psychotherapy offers the possibility for an individual to explore various aspects of their life and be listened to in a way that is rarely possible with family or friends. My experience includes working with psychiatric diagnoses, those affected by issues and symptoms of anxiety, stress, depression, bereavement, addiction, relationship issues, questions of gender and sexuality.
083 392 1604 View 083 392 1604
Photo of Norma O'Sullivan - Dr Norma O'Sullivan Psychology Services, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, CPsychol PSI
Dr Norma O'Sullivan Psychology Services
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, CPsychol PSI
Serves Area
I work with teens (16 years+) and adult clients. I have specialist experience working with a range of needs and issues across the lifespan, including trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief and loss, attachment issues, eating disorders, chronic health conditions, life changes and transitions, emotional dysregulation, self harm, suicide, OCD, ADHD, and Autism.
I work with teens (16 years+) and adult clients. I have specialist experience working with a range of needs and issues across the lifespan, including trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief and loss, attachment issues, eating disorders, chronic health conditions, life changes and transitions, emotional dysregulation, self harm, suicide, OCD, ADHD, and Autism.
(01) 267 6622 x21 View (01) 267 6622 x21
Photo of Ciaran Mahony, Psychotherapist, IAHIP Supervisor
Ciaran Mahony
Psychotherapist, IAHIP Supervisor
Dublin, County D03
I have extensive experience (20+ years) working as a counsellor and psychotherapist on a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, sexuality-related issues, trauma, life crises and neurodiversity. I also have extensive experience working as a clinical supervisor as well as providing expert support to trainee psychotherapists. I believe that all individuals seeking psychotherapy have the ability to find their own way forward within the supportive and safe space that the therapeutic relationship can offer. And that by sharing their unique struggles and blocks with their therapist that they can move to living a better life.
I have extensive experience (20+ years) working as a counsellor and psychotherapist on a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, sexuality-related issues, trauma, life crises and neurodiversity. I also have extensive experience working as a clinical supervisor as well as providing expert support to trainee psychotherapists. I believe that all individuals seeking psychotherapy have the ability to find their own way forward within the supportive and safe space that the therapeutic relationship can offer. And that by sharing their unique struggles and blocks with their therapist that they can move to living a better life.
(01) 267 6570 x92 View (01) 267 6570 x92
Photo of Brendan Dolan, Psychotherapist, MSc, ICP
Brendan Dolan
Psychotherapist, MSc, ICP
Dublin, County D02
Throughout our lives we encounter situations that challenge us. Sometimes we just can't get passed them, we get stuck and cannot seem to find a solution. As a result we become anxious, stressed or even depressed. I work with clients in a non directive way through psychoanalysis, which allows the client look at their situation or problems, explore the potential causes and find a way of dealing with them. There is no 'one size fits all' solution to personal difficulties, everyone's experience is unique and the psychoanalytic approach allows the client find a solution that is individual to their situation.
Throughout our lives we encounter situations that challenge us. Sometimes we just can't get passed them, we get stuck and cannot seem to find a solution. As a result we become anxious, stressed or even depressed. I work with clients in a non directive way through psychoanalysis, which allows the client look at their situation or problems, explore the potential causes and find a way of dealing with them. There is no 'one size fits all' solution to personal difficulties, everyone's experience is unique and the psychoanalytic approach allows the client find a solution that is individual to their situation.
(01) 267 6681 x37 View (01) 267 6681 x37
Photo of Charlie Gray - Charle Gray - EMDR, Psychotherapist
Charle Gray - EMDR
Psychotherapist
Online Only
JUNE 2026: EMDR Spots Available €65 • Feeling stressed, anxious, or stuck in negative patterns? I help clients process experiences, heal from trauma, and build lasting resilience. Using a mind-body approach primarily through EMDR but also including IFS, mindfulness, attachment-focused therapy, somatic, and breathwork - we address how stress and emotional dysregulation can show up as fatigue, anxiety, digestive issues, muscle tension, headaches, relationship struggles, low self-esteem and more. Together, we develop tools for regulation, deepen self-awareness, and move toward greater health and connection with yourself and others.
JUNE 2026: EMDR Spots Available €65 • Feeling stressed, anxious, or stuck in negative patterns? I help clients process experiences, heal from trauma, and build lasting resilience. Using a mind-body approach primarily through EMDR but also including IFS, mindfulness, attachment-focused therapy, somatic, and breathwork - we address how stress and emotional dysregulation can show up as fatigue, anxiety, digestive issues, muscle tension, headaches, relationship struggles, low self-esteem and more. Together, we develop tools for regulation, deepen self-awareness, and move toward greater health and connection with yourself and others.
(01) 267 6536 x14 View (01) 267 6536 x14
Photo of Fiona Murphy - Clarity Counselling, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Clarity Counselling
Psychotherapist, MIACP
1 Endorsed
Malahide, County Dublin K36
Clarity Counselling is an affordable, professional counselling service based in Malahide, Co. Dublin. I provide counselling and psychotherapy for adults, adolescents and couples. My service is committed to the highest degree of ethical practice and care. I also provide a limited number of hours at low cost rates for students, unemployed/OAP’s.
Clarity Counselling is an affordable, professional counselling service based in Malahide, Co. Dublin. I provide counselling and psychotherapy for adults, adolescents and couples. My service is committed to the highest degree of ethical practice and care. I also provide a limited number of hours at low cost rates for students, unemployed/OAP’s.
(01) 267 6622 x93 View (01) 267 6622 x93
Polina Kostadinova
Psychotherapist, MSc
Dublin, County D02
I am a Lacanian Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist with MSc(Hons) from UCD, taught at St.Vincent’s Hospital. My clinical formation on the course included 2 years of weekly case conferences with the psychiatry department, shaping a strong foundation in working with complex presentations. I have attended a summer school in Amsterdam on (Trans-)Sexuality & Psychoanalysis which is overseen by University of Amsterdam, and I serve on the event committee of APPI, where I am a pre-accredited member. My first publication on subject formation and the logic of the unconscious is to appear in the psychoanalytic journal Lacunae later this summer.
I am a Lacanian Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist with MSc(Hons) from UCD, taught at St.Vincent’s Hospital. My clinical formation on the course included 2 years of weekly case conferences with the psychiatry department, shaping a strong foundation in working with complex presentations. I have attended a summer school in Amsterdam on (Trans-)Sexuality & Psychoanalysis which is overseen by University of Amsterdam, and I serve on the event committee of APPI, where I am a pre-accredited member. My first publication on subject formation and the logic of the unconscious is to appear in the psychoanalytic journal Lacunae later this summer.
(01) 267 6641 x89 View (01) 267 6641 x89
Photo of Susan O'Donoghue, Counsellor, MIACP
Susan O'Donoghue
Counsellor, MIACP
Dublin, County D16
Are you dealing with anxiety, relationship issues, depression, bereavement, trauma, low self-worth, or a sense that something is wrong? Do you need help understanding your problems and making changes? I can offer a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to be heard and understood, to explore your thoughts and emotions, and to work through the issues in your life
Are you dealing with anxiety, relationship issues, depression, bereavement, trauma, low self-worth, or a sense that something is wrong? Do you need help understanding your problems and making changes? I can offer a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to be heard and understood, to explore your thoughts and emotions, and to work through the issues in your life
(01) 233 7063 x30 View (01) 233 7063 x30
Chronic Illness Counsellors
How does therapy for chronic illness work?
Many people living with a chronic illness may feel they cannot speak honestly about their experience out of embarrassment or fear of being a burden, or because those close to them do not understand, for example, that they may “look good” even if they do not feel good. Therapy sessions are an opportunity to speak openly with someone who knows their symptoms are not in their head and who can offer practical, proven suggestions for managing feelings of grief, shame, or fatigue, such as techniques to challenge unhelpful thoughts about symptoms and develop new ways to respond to them, such as distraction or calming breathing practices.

Can therapy help with physical symptoms of chronic illness?
Yes, especially if an individual with chronic illness has developed depression. People with depression are less likely to maintain their health treatment regimens or to take positive steps to manage physical symptoms when they arise, thereby potentially complicating their medical prognosis. Treatment of depression, through talk therapy, medication, or both, will often improve one’s physical state as it eases the emotional burden of illness.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic illness?
No one living with a chronic illness, or their loved ones, should see depression as an unavoidable result of their condition. Instead, they should actively seek treatment. Research shows that people with depression are less likely to devote the required time and effort to maintaining or monitoring their health, and so therapy to limit the risk of depression can be vital for physical health as well. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction have been found to help individuals reduce stress and anxiety.

How long does therapy for chronic illness take?
There is no set timeline for therapy for people living with chronic illnesses, but many will see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 weekly sessions. Some people feel that they experience progress faster than others but even some who quickly feel improvement may continue with sessions for months or years. Some people may benefit from maintenance therapy if their symptoms change or they experience a decline in physical health. Others find that the skills learned in short-term therapy can be used on an ongoing basis, even after therapy has concluded.