Female Counsellors in Leixlip
I believe the answers to our own problems are within us. You are the expert. The narrator of your story. Your experience is unique. Only you know what it is to be you. How it feels. My role is simply one of companion. It is hoped that as you journey along at your own pace you will begin to unravel and understand who you are and why you feel the way you do. This insight has the potential to make sense of your difficulties. To find the light in the dark. To see new roads to travel, better ways to live, and new eyes to see the world. To eventually have the courage to take the road meant for you. To become who you truly are.
I believe the answers to our own problems are within us. You are the expert. The narrator of your story. Your experience is unique. Only you know what it is to be you. How it feels. My role is simply one of companion. It is hoped that as you journey along at your own pace you will begin to unravel and understand who you are and why you feel the way you do. This insight has the potential to make sense of your difficulties. To find the light in the dark. To see new roads to travel, better ways to live, and new eyes to see the world. To eventually have the courage to take the road meant for you. To become who you truly are.
Barbara is a fully certified psychotherapist with a B.A. (Hons) in Psychology and a Masters in Counselling & Psychotherapy. She is a member of the Association of Professional Counsellors & Psychotherapists in Ireland (APCP), Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI), British Psychological Society (BACP) and the American Psychological Association (APA).
Barbara is a fully certified psychotherapist with a B.A. (Hons) in Psychology and a Masters in Counselling & Psychotherapy. She is a member of the Association of Professional Counsellors & Psychotherapists in Ireland (APCP), Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI), British Psychological Society (BACP) and the American Psychological Association (APA).
I work successfully with many presenting issues, yet I hold closer to my heart helping people who struggles with eating disorders or disordered eating, feeling stuck in cycles of restrictive eating, bingeing, or body image concerns often tied to anxiety or trauma. They need a safe, supportive space to explore these challenges and tools to build healthier relationships with food and themselves. Some of the goal to explore may be to break free from disordered patterns, reclaim self-worth, and live a more balanced, fulfilling life.
I work successfully with many presenting issues, yet I hold closer to my heart helping people who struggles with eating disorders or disordered eating, feeling stuck in cycles of restrictive eating, bingeing, or body image concerns often tied to anxiety or trauma. They need a safe, supportive space to explore these challenges and tools to build healthier relationships with food and themselves. Some of the goal to explore may be to break free from disordered patterns, reclaim self-worth, and live a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Are you overthinking everything? Finding it hard to make decisions? Finding it hard to switch off at the end of the day? Feeling overwhelmed but not sure exactly why? On the outside, life looks fine, but inside you feel chaotic. You are not alone in this. You are in the right place.
Are you overthinking everything? Finding it hard to make decisions? Finding it hard to switch off at the end of the day? Feeling overwhelmed but not sure exactly why? On the outside, life looks fine, but inside you feel chaotic. You are not alone in this. You are in the right place.
Do you need a safe, warm and friendly counsellor who really listens to you as an individual? If you find you are returning to unhelpful behaviours or relationship patterns or coping with stress, anger problems, trauma, anxiety or depression that prevent you from being happy with life them counselling can really make a difference. In our sessions you'll find a thoughtful, supportive and creative environment where we can work at your pace. Whatever your situation is, we will work together for you to be empowered through non judgemental therapy to change unhelpful thoughts and behaviours and move towards real positive lasting change.
Do you need a safe, warm and friendly counsellor who really listens to you as an individual? If you find you are returning to unhelpful behaviours or relationship patterns or coping with stress, anger problems, trauma, anxiety or depression that prevent you from being happy with life them counselling can really make a difference. In our sessions you'll find a thoughtful, supportive and creative environment where we can work at your pace. Whatever your situation is, we will work together for you to be empowered through non judgemental therapy to change unhelpful thoughts and behaviours and move towards real positive lasting change.
Sometimes, life can be challenging. As a fully qualified pre - accredited psychotherapist, I provide a nurturing, safe, non-judgemental and confidential space to work with you through your challenges, whatever they may be.
We will work collaboratively in a caring and compassionate way where you will be listened to and valued, supporting you to navigate challenges and work through them.
I work in an integrative way, which ensures that sessions are tailored to your individual needs using a variety therapeutic techniques.
I have worked in a leading children's charity for over twenty years, supporting adults, children and families.
Sometimes, life can be challenging. As a fully qualified pre - accredited psychotherapist, I provide a nurturing, safe, non-judgemental and confidential space to work with you through your challenges, whatever they may be.
We will work collaboratively in a caring and compassionate way where you will be listened to and valued, supporting you to navigate challenges and work through them.
I work in an integrative way, which ensures that sessions are tailored to your individual needs using a variety therapeutic techniques.
I have worked in a leading children's charity for over twenty years, supporting adults, children and families.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling to handle life's challenges, or finding it hard to connect with others or even yourself? These feelings can be isolating, but you don’t have to face them on your own. My approach is compassionate and grounded in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can express yourself freely. Together, we’ll work to explore what’s weighing on you, moving at a pace that respects your comfort and needs.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, struggling to handle life's challenges, or finding it hard to connect with others or even yourself? These feelings can be isolating, but you don’t have to face them on your own. My approach is compassionate and grounded in creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can express yourself freely. Together, we’ll work to explore what’s weighing on you, moving at a pace that respects your comfort and needs.
I’m a fully accredited counsellor and psychotherapist specialising in children, adolescents, and adults, supporting issues such as anxiety, low mood, self-worth, trauma, navigating neurodiversity, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is integrative and evidence-based, drawing from EMDR, CBT, attachment theory, polyvagal principles, expressive arts, and relational psychotherapy. I work at your – or your child's – pace, creating a space that feels safe, grounded, and genuinely supportive. And I don't believe therapy needs to be heavy all the time; curiosity, creativity, and even laughter have an important place too.
I’m a fully accredited counsellor and psychotherapist specialising in children, adolescents, and adults, supporting issues such as anxiety, low mood, self-worth, trauma, navigating neurodiversity, and emotional dysregulation. My approach is integrative and evidence-based, drawing from EMDR, CBT, attachment theory, polyvagal principles, expressive arts, and relational psychotherapy. I work at your – or your child's – pace, creating a space that feels safe, grounded, and genuinely supportive. And I don't believe therapy needs to be heavy all the time; curiosity, creativity, and even laughter have an important place too.
Gaining an understanding of ourselves and those around us is the first step towards acceptance and possible change. I find it an honour to be alongside my clients as they navigate life's difficulties, and I aim to provide a safe space where they can be heard, validated, and challenged. I work mainly from a person-centred approach, honouring the client's ability to find their own solutions for personal growth.
Gaining an understanding of ourselves and those around us is the first step towards acceptance and possible change. I find it an honour to be alongside my clients as they navigate life's difficulties, and I aim to provide a safe space where they can be heard, validated, and challenged. I work mainly from a person-centred approach, honouring the client's ability to find their own solutions for personal growth.
With over 15 years’ counselling and psychotherapy experience, I have supported people from all backgrounds through their life’s challenges. I believe deeply in each person’s capacity to heal, grow, and create meaningful change with my role being to help you gain clarity, build resilience, and move toward a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. I offer support and guidance in a safe, non-judgmental space to those affected by childhood issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, stress, bereavement, relationship challenges, life transitions, anger management among others.
With over 15 years’ counselling and psychotherapy experience, I have supported people from all backgrounds through their life’s challenges. I believe deeply in each person’s capacity to heal, grow, and create meaningful change with my role being to help you gain clarity, build resilience, and move toward a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. I offer support and guidance in a safe, non-judgmental space to those affected by childhood issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, stress, bereavement, relationship challenges, life transitions, anger management among others.
I work with individuals to help address a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties and stress.
There are many reasons why people come to counselling and psychotherapy. You may have a particular issue which is causing you distress or a number of issues that are troubling you. Whatever brings you to counselling, I aim to provide a safe, caring and confidential setting where you can explore what is relevant for you.
I work with individuals to help address a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties and stress.
There are many reasons why people come to counselling and psychotherapy. You may have a particular issue which is causing you distress or a number of issues that are troubling you. Whatever brings you to counselling, I aim to provide a safe, caring and confidential setting where you can explore what is relevant for you.
Is life getting you down? Maybe you are experiencing challenges that feel relentless? Are you stressed, anxious, sad or depressed? Have you suffered a loss of some kind that you are struggling to cope with? Get the support you need to help you navigate any issues that keep you from enjoying life.
Is life getting you down? Maybe you are experiencing challenges that feel relentless? Are you stressed, anxious, sad or depressed? Have you suffered a loss of some kind that you are struggling to cope with? Get the support you need to help you navigate any issues that keep you from enjoying life.
I offer in-person appointments in Naas for adults & adolescents (teens 13-18).
There are times in life when the pain feels too much to carry alone. You might be living with the effects of trauma or abuse, feeling disconnected or under threat in your relationships, struggling with anxiety, depression or grief. Perhaps you’re exhausted, burnt out or overwhelmed. You may be facing big existential questions like: Who am I? Why my life so painful? You might even just feel something is off without knowing what. Whatever the colour of your pain, it can shape how you experience yourself and the world right now.
I offer in-person appointments in Naas for adults & adolescents (teens 13-18).
There are times in life when the pain feels too much to carry alone. You might be living with the effects of trauma or abuse, feeling disconnected or under threat in your relationships, struggling with anxiety, depression or grief. Perhaps you’re exhausted, burnt out or overwhelmed. You may be facing big existential questions like: Who am I? Why my life so painful? You might even just feel something is off without knowing what. Whatever the colour of your pain, it can shape how you experience yourself and the world right now.
Positive Connections has been born out of a passion and wish to help others in their journey through life. I offer a professional, confidential and non-judgemental space in which you can explore your thoughts and emotions. Life can be difficult sometimes and being able to talk things through with an empathic therapist can offer you freedom to speak freely. I am committed to raising awareness of the transformative power of psychotherapy.
Positive Connections has been born out of a passion and wish to help others in their journey through life. I offer a professional, confidential and non-judgemental space in which you can explore your thoughts and emotions. Life can be difficult sometimes and being able to talk things through with an empathic therapist can offer you freedom to speak freely. I am committed to raising awareness of the transformative power of psychotherapy.
Experience in working with individuals and couples. Issues such such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self harm, suicide , disordered eating relational or family , parenting issues, ASD, ADHD and addiction.Guiding people looking to assess their circumstances, develop insight and understanding and make changes that work for them, helping them reach their full potential and develop fulfilling relationships.
I have an additional qualification in couples therapy and really enjoy supporting couples through difficult times and helping them create stronger relationships for themselves and their families.
Experience in working with individuals and couples. Issues such such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self harm, suicide , disordered eating relational or family , parenting issues, ASD, ADHD and addiction.Guiding people looking to assess their circumstances, develop insight and understanding and make changes that work for them, helping them reach their full potential and develop fulfilling relationships.
I have an additional qualification in couples therapy and really enjoy supporting couples through difficult times and helping them create stronger relationships for themselves and their families.
I work with couples and individuals, providing a neuro-affirmative, open approach. At any stage in life we can be met by challenges that interfere with our happiness and sense of wellbeing. Some of these challenges are caused by events like trauma, bereavement, a diagnosis of physical/mental illness or a relationship breakdown. Or, we may feel out of balance or sad, our thoughts are negative and we can't connect. Our relationships may be suffering. We are not sure what is causing this, we just know that we are not living a full life, something is missing or holding us back. Couples may be in crisis and wondering if they can last.
I work with couples and individuals, providing a neuro-affirmative, open approach. At any stage in life we can be met by challenges that interfere with our happiness and sense of wellbeing. Some of these challenges are caused by events like trauma, bereavement, a diagnosis of physical/mental illness or a relationship breakdown. Or, we may feel out of balance or sad, our thoughts are negative and we can't connect. Our relationships may be suffering. We are not sure what is causing this, we just know that we are not living a full life, something is missing or holding us back. Couples may be in crisis and wondering if they can last.
Hi, and welcome to my page. I am a qualified Counsellor and Psychotherapist. I am a pre-accredited member of the IACP. At certain points in life, we face challenges that leave us feeling lost, stuck, or overwhelmed—challenges we may struggle to overcome. My goal is to support people in working through these difficulties and to empower them with tools that help them continue their journey.
Hi, and welcome to my page. I am a qualified Counsellor and Psychotherapist. I am a pre-accredited member of the IACP. At certain points in life, we face challenges that leave us feeling lost, stuck, or overwhelmed—challenges we may struggle to overcome. My goal is to support people in working through these difficulties and to empower them with tools that help them continue their journey.
I am a fully accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I have my practice Kilcock, North Kildare. If you are experiencing work related stress, stress, anxiety, low mood or a mix of some of these issues , then CBT is an evidenced based , practical form of therapy that will provide you with the tools to become your own therapist after your CBT sessions. CBT is provided in a warm, friendly and empathetic manner face to face, via Google meet - videoconferencing or by telephone. I can advise on how to access Google Meet if this is new to you.
I am a fully accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. I have my practice Kilcock, North Kildare. If you are experiencing work related stress, stress, anxiety, low mood or a mix of some of these issues , then CBT is an evidenced based , practical form of therapy that will provide you with the tools to become your own therapist after your CBT sessions. CBT is provided in a warm, friendly and empathetic manner face to face, via Google meet - videoconferencing or by telephone. I can advise on how to access Google Meet if this is new to you.
You may be capable and self-aware, yet still feel overwhelmed, detached or stuck. Relationships may feel intense or confusing. Perhaps you have been told you are too sensitive, too much, or overthinking. You might wonder why you react so strongly, struggle with rejection, or feel successful on paper but internally dysregulated. I work with adults navigating neurodivergence, including ADHD and autistic identity, Rejection Sensitivity, shame, personality patterns, attachment wounds, trauma and identity shifts. Together, we make sense of what is happening in your nervous system and create something more workable.
You may be capable and self-aware, yet still feel overwhelmed, detached or stuck. Relationships may feel intense or confusing. Perhaps you have been told you are too sensitive, too much, or overthinking. You might wonder why you react so strongly, struggle with rejection, or feel successful on paper but internally dysregulated. I work with adults navigating neurodivergence, including ADHD and autistic identity, Rejection Sensitivity, shame, personality patterns, attachment wounds, trauma and identity shifts. Together, we make sense of what is happening in your nervous system and create something more workable.
Paula O'Connor (MIAHIP) Reg ICP.
Paula holds a BA (Hons) Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy from Dublin Business School and is accredited by the Irish Association of Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapy (IAHIP) and is also registered with ICP Irish Council for Psychotherapy.
Her therapeutic approach is humanistic and integrative, encouraging clients to explore their physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual well-being.
She forsters a warm and welcoming environment where clients can engage with curiosity and self-exploration.
Paula values the therapeutic relationship as a vital component of the healing process.
Paula O'Connor (MIAHIP) Reg ICP.
Paula holds a BA (Hons) Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy from Dublin Business School and is accredited by the Irish Association of Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapy (IAHIP) and is also registered with ICP Irish Council for Psychotherapy.
Her therapeutic approach is humanistic and integrative, encouraging clients to explore their physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual well-being.
She forsters a warm and welcoming environment where clients can engage with curiosity and self-exploration.
Paula values the therapeutic relationship as a vital component of the healing process.
FAQ - Therapist Gender
Does it matter what gender my therapist is?
In general, there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or because they feel more comfortable with a therapist of their own gender due to shared life experiences or perspectives. Considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender may matter or improve their therapeutic experience. The most important consideration is that a client is able to build a trusting relationship with their therapist.
Should I see a female therapist?
Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist. For women, this could be because they believe that they will be able to better connect with a woman, and that a female therapist will be able to relate to their specific challenges and personal issues. It may be particularly beneficial for women to see a female therapist, for example, for gender-specific issues, such as sexism in the workplace, relationship issues, and gender roles. The most important factor in therapy is the client-therapist connection, and a therapist's gender as well as many other factors may play an important role in this.
Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?
Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?
It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.