Play Therapy Counselling in County Kerry

Photo of Marie Gannon, Counsellor, MIACP
Marie Gannon
Counsellor, MIACP
Tralee, County Kerry V92
Ask yourself a few questions. Are you experiencing a challenging stage in life, a conflicted state of mind, or difficulty within yourself that keeps on returning to trouble you? Are you finding relationships unfulfilling, stressful, or lonely? Do you worry about the future or are affected by the past? Do you replay everything you could have done differently but are consumed by guilt and regret? Do you spend a lot of time worrying about what other people think and how to make them happy? Maybe you are asking yourself how did my life turn out like this? It's exhausting. Isn't it?
Ask yourself a few questions. Are you experiencing a challenging stage in life, a conflicted state of mind, or difficulty within yourself that keeps on returning to trouble you? Are you finding relationships unfulfilling, stressful, or lonely? Do you worry about the future or are affected by the past? Do you replay everything you could have done differently but are consumed by guilt and regret? Do you spend a lot of time worrying about what other people think and how to make them happy? Maybe you are asking yourself how did my life turn out like this? It's exhausting. Isn't it?
(01) 267 6692 x35 View (01) 267 6692 x35
Photo of Kevin Gerard O' Sullivan - TalktoKev, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MIACP
TalktoKev
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MIACP
Kenmare, County Kerry V93
Please see my website www.talktokev.com for more about me. face to face, walk and talk or online around the world. Most other therapists are sufficiently trained and experienced in one of the main three; counselling/psychotherapy, hypnotherapy or life coaching whereas Kevin has all of these, combined with being a master practitioner in neuro-linguistic programming and the experience to tailor fit to your needs. Kevin has successfully worked with people of all ages, genders, cultures and backgrounds with a wide spectrum of issues.
Please see my website www.talktokev.com for more about me. face to face, walk and talk or online around the world. Most other therapists are sufficiently trained and experienced in one of the main three; counselling/psychotherapy, hypnotherapy or life coaching whereas Kevin has all of these, combined with being a master practitioner in neuro-linguistic programming and the experience to tailor fit to your needs. Kevin has successfully worked with people of all ages, genders, cultures and backgrounds with a wide spectrum of issues.
(061) 572 524 x74 View (061) 572 524 x74

Online Therapists

Photo of Mary Synnott, Psychotherapist, MSc, MIAHIP
Mary Synnott
Psychotherapist, MSc, MIAHIP
Ardnacrusha, County Clare V94
I am an experienced clinician specialising in eating disorders, relationship difficulties, and child, adolescent, and family wellbeing. I have extensive expertise in supporting individuals and families affected by food, body, and weight concerns, offering evidence‑based, compassionate treatment. I also provide practical support for parenting challenges, separation, and family transitions, creating a non‑judgemental space for anyone navigating personal or relational stress. You’re welcome to get in touch if you or your family need support.
I am an experienced clinician specialising in eating disorders, relationship difficulties, and child, adolescent, and family wellbeing. I have extensive expertise in supporting individuals and families affected by food, body, and weight concerns, offering evidence‑based, compassionate treatment. I also provide practical support for parenting challenges, separation, and family transitions, creating a non‑judgemental space for anyone navigating personal or relational stress. You’re welcome to get in touch if you or your family need support.
087 833 2986 View 087 833 2986
Photo of Christina Tobin, Counsellor, APCP
Christina Tobin
Counsellor, APCP
Clonmel, County Tipperary E91
I am a counsellor specialising in therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults — supporting young minds through life’s challenges with care and understanding. My aim to make help all young minds feel heard, understood, and empowered, one conversation at a time.
I am a counsellor specialising in therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults — supporting young minds through life’s challenges with care and understanding. My aim to make help all young minds feel heard, understood, and empowered, one conversation at a time.
(01) 568 2872 x30 View (01) 568 2872 x30
Photo of Antonia Fleeton - Four Swans Therapy and Wellness Centre, Psychotherapist
Four Swans Therapy and Wellness Centre
Psychotherapist
Duleek, County Meath A92
At Four Swans Therapy and Wellness Centre we have a team of counsellors and psychotherapists with a range of qualifications, training and specialist interests available to help you and support your mental health. We are also a clinical placement provider for UCD, DBS, the Dublin Counselling and Psychotherapy School, Play Therapy Ireland and the Children's Therapy Centre and offer low cost counselling for children, adolescents and adults with our student therapists. A comprehensive selection of holistic therapies are also on offer to support your wellbeing. Where possible we aim to have no wait list for counselling appointments.
At Four Swans Therapy and Wellness Centre we have a team of counsellors and psychotherapists with a range of qualifications, training and specialist interests available to help you and support your mental health. We are also a clinical placement provider for UCD, DBS, the Dublin Counselling and Psychotherapy School, Play Therapy Ireland and the Children's Therapy Centre and offer low cost counselling for children, adolescents and adults with our student therapists. A comprehensive selection of holistic therapies are also on offer to support your wellbeing. Where possible we aim to have no wait list for counselling appointments.
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Photo of Elaine Fagan
Elaine Fagan
Verified Verified
Swords, County Dublin K67
I work from a child centred approach using a variety of play and creative mediums.
Hi, I'm Elaine Fagan, an Accredited Play Therapist and Clinical Supervisor for Creative Arts Therapists. I have 20+ years experience supporting children and families with a variety of needs. I specialise in providing 1:1 play therapy for children aged 3-16 years. Play therapy can help with the following issues: grief and loss, attachment and trauma, anxiety, impact of parental separation, sibling rivalry, sleep difficulties, low self esteem, ASD. I support parents and offer parent coaching sessions individually tailored to meet your family's needs. I am also a sandplay practitioner offering sandplay therapy to children and adults.
I work from a child centred approach using a variety of play and creative mediums.
Hi, I'm Elaine Fagan, an Accredited Play Therapist and Clinical Supervisor for Creative Arts Therapists. I have 20+ years experience supporting children and families with a variety of needs. I specialise in providing 1:1 play therapy for children aged 3-16 years. Play therapy can help with the following issues: grief and loss, attachment and trauma, anxiety, impact of parental separation, sibling rivalry, sleep difficulties, low self esteem, ASD. I support parents and offer parent coaching sessions individually tailored to meet your family's needs. I am also a sandplay practitioner offering sandplay therapy to children and adults.
(01) 267 6570 x97 View (01) 267 6570 x97
Photo of Daniela Carvalho, Psychologist, MSc, MPSI
Daniela Carvalho
Psychologist, MSc, MPSI
1 Endorsed
Naas, County Kildare W91
I have been working in different clinical settings and with clients from multiple age groups. My experience is with adults, adolescents and children and a wide range of difficulties and diagnoses, from depression to grief, anxiety, self-harming and suicide ideation.
I have been working in different clinical settings and with clients from multiple age groups. My experience is with adults, adolescents and children and a wide range of difficulties and diagnoses, from depression to grief, anxiety, self-harming and suicide ideation.
083 193 8950 View 083 193 8950
Photo of Joe Kelly, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Joe Kelly
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Mullingar, County Westmeath N91
Senior Clinical Psychotherapist I work from a humanistic perspective with a person-centered ethos and Iintegrate this approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Integrating CBT and MI creates self-awareness and promotes evidence-based techniques, helping clients build the skills necessary to overcome obstacles, improve mental well-being, and achieve their goals with confidence and clarity. I also dedicate much time to working with adolescents and young adults with a diagnosis of ASD and co-morbid conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and OCD.
Senior Clinical Psychotherapist I work from a humanistic perspective with a person-centered ethos and Iintegrate this approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Integrating CBT and MI creates self-awareness and promotes evidence-based techniques, helping clients build the skills necessary to overcome obstacles, improve mental well-being, and achieve their goals with confidence and clarity. I also dedicate much time to working with adolescents and young adults with a diagnosis of ASD and co-morbid conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and OCD.
(01) 267 6692 x85 View (01) 267 6692 x85
Photo of Christina Mary Enright, Psychotherapist, MA
Christina Mary Enright
Psychotherapist, MA
Dublin, County A96
I approach my work with the belief that with compassionate care and acceptance, no matter how challenging our early lives have been, we all have a capacity for transformation and the potential to live a more enriched and fulfilling life. I believe that helping people to recognise and believe in their worth enables them to be more resilient in the face of challenges and difficult emotional experiences and to be able to make self-supportive and affirming choices.
I approach my work with the belief that with compassionate care and acceptance, no matter how challenging our early lives have been, we all have a capacity for transformation and the potential to live a more enriched and fulfilling life. I believe that helping people to recognise and believe in their worth enables them to be more resilient in the face of challenges and difficult emotional experiences and to be able to make self-supportive and affirming choices.
(01) 267 6595 x40 View (01) 267 6595 x40
Photo of Paula Coyle, Counsellor, MSc
Paula Coyle
Counsellor, MSc
Letterkenny, County Donegal F92
I am an accredited registered member of NCPS (National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society) and a member of BACP. As a therapist I offer a calm, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, supported and understood wherever you are on your journey. I work with children from the age of 6 years and adults. I also offer family support. I use an integrative approach drawing on a range of therapies with a focus on the importance of the therapeutic relationship
I am an accredited registered member of NCPS (National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society) and a member of BACP. As a therapist I offer a calm, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, supported and understood wherever you are on your journey. I work with children from the age of 6 years and adults. I also offer family support. I use an integrative approach drawing on a range of therapies with a focus on the importance of the therapeutic relationship
(061) 572 524 x72 View (061) 572 524 x72
Photo of Eileen C Birchall - Caring Counselling, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Caring Counselling
Psychotherapist, MIACP
3 Endorsed
Dublin, County D24
With an MSc in Creative Arts Psychotherapy and specialist training in trauma, children & loss, art therapy, and therapeutic play I tailor each session to Your Needs.
I am an Experienced IACP-accredited Creative Arts Psychotherapist. I specialise in trauma-informed therapy, using a blend of art, play, and talking approaches. Each session is shaped around you, helping you express yourself safely, process emotions, and support meaningful, lasting change.
With an MSc in Creative Arts Psychotherapy and specialist training in trauma, children & loss, art therapy, and therapeutic play I tailor each session to Your Needs.
I am an Experienced IACP-accredited Creative Arts Psychotherapist. I specialise in trauma-informed therapy, using a blend of art, play, and talking approaches. Each session is shaped around you, helping you express yourself safely, process emotions, and support meaningful, lasting change.
(01) 263 0697 x99 View (01) 263 0697 x99
Photo of Lorraine Mooney, Psychotherapist, MA, MIACP
Lorraine Mooney
Psychotherapist, MA, MIACP
Edenderry, County Offaly R45
Trauma Informed and Neuro Affirming Practice! I am a fully accredited adult, adolescent and child psychotherapist. As an integrative therapist, I move between different theoretical approaches including Person Centred Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Gestalt Therapy depending on each client’s individual therapeutic needs. My main therapeutic approach is Humanistic where I apply a Person-Cantered focus with clients by establishing an empathic and non-judgmental relationship in a relaxed, confidential setting with each client.
Trauma Informed and Neuro Affirming Practice! I am a fully accredited adult, adolescent and child psychotherapist. As an integrative therapist, I move between different theoretical approaches including Person Centred Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Gestalt Therapy depending on each client’s individual therapeutic needs. My main therapeutic approach is Humanistic where I apply a Person-Cantered focus with clients by establishing an empathic and non-judgmental relationship in a relaxed, confidential setting with each client.
085 806 3574 View 085 806 3574
Photo of Michelle Brunton, MA
Michelle Brunton
Verified Verified
Prosperous, County Kildare W91
My name is Michelle, I have an MA in Child, Family and Community Studies, and am an accredited Play Therapist and creative mindfulness practitioner.
I work with children who experience a wide range of issues, including anxiety, autism spectrum, family separation/ divorce, self esteem issues, bereavement/ loss, communication issues, withdrawn, nightmares, bullying, underperformance, delayed development. I offer a safe space for a child, allowing them the freedom to express themselves.
My name is Michelle, I have an MA in Child, Family and Community Studies, and am an accredited Play Therapist and creative mindfulness practitioner.
I work with children who experience a wide range of issues, including anxiety, autism spectrum, family separation/ divorce, self esteem issues, bereavement/ loss, communication issues, withdrawn, nightmares, bullying, underperformance, delayed development. I offer a safe space for a child, allowing them the freedom to express themselves.
(01) 568 2872 x51 View (01) 568 2872 x51
Photo of Deborah Mulvany - Elmwood Counselling and Psychotherapy, Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol PSI
Elmwood Counselling and Psychotherapy
Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol PSI
Dublin, County D02
Established in 1987, The Elmwood Therapy Centre, is one of the oldest counselling and psychotherapy services in Ireland. The centre was set up to provide therapy to individuals, couples and families who want to take the first step towards resolving their issues, improving their sense of well-being and developing the confidence to change. As part of a new initiative to support the community, Elmwood has now introduced low cost counselling. This service is offered by trainee and pre-accredited therapists who are trained to Masters level, who engage in intensive professional supervision, and strictly adhere to a code of ethics.
Established in 1987, The Elmwood Therapy Centre, is one of the oldest counselling and psychotherapy services in Ireland. The centre was set up to provide therapy to individuals, couples and families who want to take the first step towards resolving their issues, improving their sense of well-being and developing the confidence to change. As part of a new initiative to support the community, Elmwood has now introduced low cost counselling. This service is offered by trainee and pre-accredited therapists who are trained to Masters level, who engage in intensive professional supervision, and strictly adhere to a code of ethics.
(01) 267 6641 x94 View (01) 267 6641 x94
Photo of Grace Vaughey, Psychotherapist, MSc
Grace Vaughey
Psychotherapist, MSc
Dublin, County D08
Waitlist for new clients
Grace is an an integrative, psychodynamic psychotherapist, who will incorporate elements of art, poetry, play, and improvisation to support others to make better sense of their lived experience.
Grace's practice is called "Aiteall Therapy". The word "Aiteall" (pronounced: atch - ill) is an Irish language word that describes a period of pleasant sunshine between two rain showers. Life, much like the weather, is not always bright and calm. Storms will come, and the rain will fall.
Grace is an an integrative, psychodynamic psychotherapist, who will incorporate elements of art, poetry, play, and improvisation to support others to make better sense of their lived experience.
Grace's practice is called "Aiteall Therapy". The word "Aiteall" (pronounced: atch - ill) is an Irish language word that describes a period of pleasant sunshine between two rain showers. Life, much like the weather, is not always bright and calm. Storms will come, and the rain will fall.
(01) 230 8537 x82 View (01) 230 8537 x82
Photo of Marie Fariñas, Psychotherapist, MA
Marie Fariñas
Psychotherapist, MA
1 Endorsed
Galway, County H91
I also provide Play Therapy for children.
I provide Integrative and Creative Therapy in a cosy, confidential space. Join me to explore challenges you might be experiencing such as feeling disconnected, grief, or overwhelm. Whatever you're going through, we can mend it together. If this resonates with you, I warmly invite you to reach out.
I also provide Play Therapy for children.
I provide Integrative and Creative Therapy in a cosy, confidential space. Join me to explore challenges you might be experiencing such as feeling disconnected, grief, or overwhelm. Whatever you're going through, we can mend it together. If this resonates with you, I warmly invite you to reach out.
(01) 263 0697 x34 View (01) 263 0697 x34
Photo of Madeleine Grant, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Madeleine Grant
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Rathdrum, County Wicklow A67
I am an Accredited Play/Creative Arts Therapist, Counsellor and Psychotherapist, & Environmental Art Therapist with additional Sand, Art and Bereavement training.
I specialise in the area of grief and loss following a bereavement, illness, surgery, any major life event. I work on a one to one basis with clients, face to face or online. I also can work with clients outside using nature as a therapeutic tool. I am based in Rathdrum Co. Wicklow .
I am an Accredited Play/Creative Arts Therapist, Counsellor and Psychotherapist, & Environmental Art Therapist with additional Sand, Art and Bereavement training.
I specialise in the area of grief and loss following a bereavement, illness, surgery, any major life event. I work on a one to one basis with clients, face to face or online. I also can work with clients outside using nature as a therapeutic tool. I am based in Rathdrum Co. Wicklow .
(01) 568 2872 x44 View (01) 568 2872 x44
Photo of Lisa Maguire, Psychotherapist, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Lisa Maguire
Psychotherapist, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
4 Endorsed
Dublin, County D03
I am a trauma-informed, neurodiverse-affirming psychotherapist with lived experience of ADHD and dyslexia. Whether you’re facing anxiety, low mood, stress, or the impact of past experiences, you might feel stuck, lost, or unsure of yourself. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can talk openly, feel heard, and begin to make sense of what’s going on. I work with adults and young people, offering a compassionate space where connection and understanding are at the heart of my work. Together, we can explore what’s holding you back, build on your strengths, and take steps towards meaningful change.
I am a trauma-informed, neurodiverse-affirming psychotherapist with lived experience of ADHD and dyslexia. Whether you’re facing anxiety, low mood, stress, or the impact of past experiences, you might feel stuck, lost, or unsure of yourself. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can talk openly, feel heard, and begin to make sense of what’s going on. I work with adults and young people, offering a compassionate space where connection and understanding are at the heart of my work. Together, we can explore what’s holding you back, build on your strengths, and take steps towards meaningful change.
087 936 6042 View 087 936 6042
Photo of Louise M Patterson, Psychotherapist, MA, MIAHIP
Louise M Patterson
Psychotherapist, MA, MIAHIP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I currently have availability online Wednesday and Thursdays for adult therapy and supervision appointments. I am an adult, child and adolescent Psychotherapist. I have worked in a number of sectors including school settings, residential care settings, and for charitable bodies. I am passionate about working therapeutically with families, children and teens living with life challenges such as anxiety, bereavement, selective mutism, parental separation, foster and residential care, ADHD, Autism, bereavement, homelessness, amongst others.
I currently have availability online Wednesday and Thursdays for adult therapy and supervision appointments. I am an adult, child and adolescent Psychotherapist. I have worked in a number of sectors including school settings, residential care settings, and for charitable bodies. I am passionate about working therapeutically with families, children and teens living with life challenges such as anxiety, bereavement, selective mutism, parental separation, foster and residential care, ADHD, Autism, bereavement, homelessness, amongst others.
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Photo of Deborah Daly, Psychotherapist, MA, MIACP
Deborah Daly
Psychotherapist, MA, MIACP
Dublin, County D20
My name is Deborah Daly. I work with adults, children and adolescents in a warm, person-centred way. I believe every client’s story is unique, so I adapt my approach to meet your individual needs and pace. I support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, family dynamics, parental challenges, chronic illness, grief and loss, stress, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
My name is Deborah Daly. I work with adults, children and adolescents in a warm, person-centred way. I believe every client’s story is unique, so I adapt my approach to meet your individual needs and pace. I support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, family dynamics, parental challenges, chronic illness, grief and loss, stress, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
(01) 267 6536 x21 View (01) 267 6536 x21
Play Therapy Counsellors
Who is play therapy for?
Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioural difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.

Why do people need play therapy?
Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behaviour and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.

What happens in play therapy?
A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?
Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.

How long does play therapy last?
Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behaviour.