Counselling in Athlone

Photo of Fidelma Reid, Psychotherapist, MSc, MIAHIP
Fidelma Reid
Psychotherapist, MSc, MIAHIP
Athlone, County Westmeath N37
I understand how overwhelming life’s challenges can feel, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a genuine commitment to helping you navigate your unique journey. Together, we’ll create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, uncover your strengths, and develop practical tools to face life’s difficulties with confidence. My goal is to help you feel heard, valued, and empowered to make meaningful changes that bring balance, resilience, and peace into your life. You don’t have to face this alone—let’s take the next step together.
I understand how overwhelming life’s challenges can feel, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a genuine commitment to helping you navigate your unique journey. Together, we’ll create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, uncover your strengths, and develop practical tools to face life’s difficulties with confidence. My goal is to help you feel heard, valued, and empowered to make meaningful changes that bring balance, resilience, and peace into your life. You don’t have to face this alone—let’s take the next step together.
(01) 233 7903 x18 View (01) 233 7903 x18
Photo of Caroline Walker, Psychotherapist, MSc, MIACP
Caroline Walker
Psychotherapist, MSc, MIACP
2 Endorsed
Athlone, County Westmeath N37
As a therapist, I don't aim to 'fix' my clients. Instead, I believe they possess the innate capacity to heal and uncover their inner strength. My role is to guide them on their journey, helping them uncover the tools and resources they've been carrying within themselves. Many individuals have lost touch with their inner power, their voice, and their resilience due to trauma and other life experiences. As a therapist, I use various approaches, including art therapy, psychodynamic techniques, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), to empower my clients to reclaim their voice and inner power.
As a therapist, I don't aim to 'fix' my clients. Instead, I believe they possess the innate capacity to heal and uncover their inner strength. My role is to guide them on their journey, helping them uncover the tools and resources they've been carrying within themselves. Many individuals have lost touch with their inner power, their voice, and their resilience due to trauma and other life experiences. As a therapist, I use various approaches, including art therapy, psychodynamic techniques, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), to empower my clients to reclaim their voice and inner power.
(01) 267 6681 x12 View (01) 267 6681 x12
Photo of Kenneth Liddane, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Kenneth Liddane
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Athlone, County Westmeath N37
Do you experience feelings, emotions, and behaviours that don’t align with how you think you should be at that time? Or do you want to move forward but find yourself stuck, procrastinating, or acting in ways that don't align with your intentions? I have experience supporting individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, low self-worth, burnout, anger, trauma from emotional, physical or sexual abuse, loss and bereavement, life-changing diagnoses, carer burden, negative self-image and gender identity concerns. I'll help you feel more confident about yourself, your environment and whatever challenges you face.
Do you experience feelings, emotions, and behaviours that don’t align with how you think you should be at that time? Or do you want to move forward but find yourself stuck, procrastinating, or acting in ways that don't align with your intentions? I have experience supporting individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, low self-worth, burnout, anger, trauma from emotional, physical or sexual abuse, loss and bereavement, life-changing diagnoses, carer burden, negative self-image and gender identity concerns. I'll help you feel more confident about yourself, your environment and whatever challenges you face.
(01) 263 0393 x71 View (01) 263 0393 x71
Photo of Rebecca Kilroy, Psychotherapist, MA, APCP
Rebecca Kilroy
Psychotherapist, MA, APCP
Athlone, County Westmeath N37
Many of my clients come to therapy feeling different, misunderstood, or worn down from trying to fit into systems that weren’t built with them in mind. You might identify as neurodiverse, or you might be exploring gender, sexuality, or relationship diversity. In our work together, there’s no expectation to mask or explain yourself. I aim to offer a space where you can be fully yourself — curious, messy, uncertain, and real. Therapy can be a place to explore what feels heavy, to unlearn self-criticism, and to find ways of living that honour your unique wiring and identity
Many of my clients come to therapy feeling different, misunderstood, or worn down from trying to fit into systems that weren’t built with them in mind. You might identify as neurodiverse, or you might be exploring gender, sexuality, or relationship diversity. In our work together, there’s no expectation to mask or explain yourself. I aim to offer a space where you can be fully yourself — curious, messy, uncertain, and real. Therapy can be a place to explore what feels heavy, to unlearn self-criticism, and to find ways of living that honour your unique wiring and identity
(01) 233 7063 x64 View (01) 233 7063 x64
Photo of Sarah Houlihan, Counsellor, MA, APCP
Sarah Houlihan
Counsellor, MA, APCP
Athlone, County Westmeath N37
Are you looking for an empathetic, non-judgmental space to explore issues within your life? Counselling can help to understand what is going on for you, how your thoughts emotions and behaviours are interlinked, and how you would like to go forward in a compassionate, mindful way. My name is Sarah, I am an accredited counsellor with APCP and I work with clients in a collaborative way to reach the goals they may bring to therapy.
Are you looking for an empathetic, non-judgmental space to explore issues within your life? Counselling can help to understand what is going on for you, how your thoughts emotions and behaviours are interlinked, and how you would like to go forward in a compassionate, mindful way. My name is Sarah, I am an accredited counsellor with APCP and I work with clients in a collaborative way to reach the goals they may bring to therapy.
(01) 267 6517 x70 View (01) 267 6517 x70
Photo of Dara Fahy, Psychotherapist, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
Dara Fahy
Psychotherapist, Pre-Accredited Member IACP
2 Endorsed
Athlone, County Westmeath N37
I’m Dara, a qualified integrative humanistic psychotherapist dedicated to supporting people to better understand themselves and live more authentically. I offer a safe, supportive, neuroaffirmative space where you can explore your inner narratives and reconnect with a more fulfilling, authentic life. I work with a wide range of life challenges, whatever their size. Before becoming a therapist, I had a varied career that always focused on people, from radio presenting to retail management. Over time, I became increasingly driven to support others in reaching their full potential, which led me to this path.
I’m Dara, a qualified integrative humanistic psychotherapist dedicated to supporting people to better understand themselves and live more authentically. I offer a safe, supportive, neuroaffirmative space where you can explore your inner narratives and reconnect with a more fulfilling, authentic life. I work with a wide range of life challenges, whatever their size. Before becoming a therapist, I had a varied career that always focused on people, from radio presenting to retail management. Over time, I became increasingly driven to support others in reaching their full potential, which led me to this path.
(01) 267 6570 x45 View (01) 267 6570 x45
Photo of Erengul Yoldas, Psychotherapist, MSc, MIACP
Erengul Yoldas
Psychotherapist, MSc, MIACP
Online Only
Hello and thank you for visiting my page. I am a fully accredited psychotherapist / couple and family therapist, with a wealth of clinical, academic, and professional experience. I bring clinical expertise together with a deep commitment to inclusive, reflective, and compassionate practice. My expertise encompasses a wide range of issues, including but not limited to grief, loss, bereavement, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, addiction, stress, trauma, obsessions, abuse, relationship difficulties and matters related to sexuality and also immigration.
Hello and thank you for visiting my page. I am a fully accredited psychotherapist / couple and family therapist, with a wealth of clinical, academic, and professional experience. I bring clinical expertise together with a deep commitment to inclusive, reflective, and compassionate practice. My expertise encompasses a wide range of issues, including but not limited to grief, loss, bereavement, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, addiction, stress, trauma, obsessions, abuse, relationship difficulties and matters related to sexuality and also immigration.
(01) 267 6552 x31 View (01) 267 6552 x31
Photo of Helen Hill, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Helen Hill
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Athlone, County Westmeath N37
Hi, I’m Helen. I’m an accredited Counsellor and Psychotherapist who offers a supportive, down‑to‑earth approach to therapy. I offer both online and in‑person sessions. I work with you as an individual, shaping our sessions around what feels most helpful for you. I believe you already hold many of the answers within yourself, and my role is to walk alongside you as you reconnect with your strengths and gain clarity. I offer a calm, respectful space where you can talk openly about whatever is going on for you and begin to create meaningful change. If this feels like the right fit, you’re welcome to get in touch.
Hi, I’m Helen. I’m an accredited Counsellor and Psychotherapist who offers a supportive, down‑to‑earth approach to therapy. I offer both online and in‑person sessions. I work with you as an individual, shaping our sessions around what feels most helpful for you. I believe you already hold many of the answers within yourself, and my role is to walk alongside you as you reconnect with your strengths and gain clarity. I offer a calm, respectful space where you can talk openly about whatever is going on for you and begin to create meaningful change. If this feels like the right fit, you’re welcome to get in touch.
(01) 267 6517 x64 View (01) 267 6517 x64
Photo of Catriona Hanevy, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Catriona Hanevy
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Athlone, County Westmeath N37
Not accepting new clients
I am fully qualified and accredited Psychotherapist with over 15 years experience working in private practice with Adults and Adolescents (12 years+). You may want support dealing with feelings of sadness, despair, suicidal thoughts or anxiety that you may or may not connect to any particular event, even if you are getting other supports from your GP or psychiatrist. You may need support because of a difficult time you are going through, such as bereavement, loss, adult or childhood trauma/abuse, relationship breakdown, sexual/gender identity; loss of a job, coming to terms with illness or general unhappiness with your life.
I am fully qualified and accredited Psychotherapist with over 15 years experience working in private practice with Adults and Adolescents (12 years+). You may want support dealing with feelings of sadness, despair, suicidal thoughts or anxiety that you may or may not connect to any particular event, even if you are getting other supports from your GP or psychiatrist. You may need support because of a difficult time you are going through, such as bereavement, loss, adult or childhood trauma/abuse, relationship breakdown, sexual/gender identity; loss of a job, coming to terms with illness or general unhappiness with your life.
(01) 263 0697 x74 View (01) 263 0697 x74
Photo of Jamie Earl, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Jamie Earl
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Athlone, County Westmeath N37
Regularly I am asked why talking helps. I have thought about that question a lot. I think it is the first step in understanding yourself, and in that begins the true accepting of yourself. It facilitates change and growth. I offer a safe place to do exactly this. I am sometimes challenging, never judgmental, a companion, not a guide.
Regularly I am asked why talking helps. I have thought about that question a lot. I think it is the first step in understanding yourself, and in that begins the true accepting of yourself. It facilitates change and growth. I offer a safe place to do exactly this. I am sometimes challenging, never judgmental, a companion, not a guide.
085 181 4174 View 085 181 4174
Photo of Mary Allen, Psychotherapist, MA, ICP
Mary Allen
Psychotherapist, MA, ICP
Athlone, County Westmeath N37
I have over 25 years clinical experience working in professional settings both in Ireland and abroad. I am passionate about working with and empowering people of all ages, and cultural backgrounds. While abroad I worked in multicultural environments and understand the challenges of both locals and expaths alike. I provide a confidential, compassionate, nonjudgmental space in which I support and help people to discuss, identify and work through their issues. Based on my extensive clinical experience and professional trainings I work with a wide range of issues and I have a grounded compassionate presence in my work with people.
I have over 25 years clinical experience working in professional settings both in Ireland and abroad. I am passionate about working with and empowering people of all ages, and cultural backgrounds. While abroad I worked in multicultural environments and understand the challenges of both locals and expaths alike. I provide a confidential, compassionate, nonjudgmental space in which I support and help people to discuss, identify and work through their issues. Based on my extensive clinical experience and professional trainings I work with a wide range of issues and I have a grounded compassionate presence in my work with people.
(01) 267 6641 x29 View (01) 267 6641 x29
Photo of Sheena Lawless, Counsellor, MA, APCP
Sheena Lawless
Counsellor, MA, APCP
Athlone, County Westmeath N37
Hello, I’m Sheena—a qualified Sexologist, Counsellor, and Relationship Therapist. I offer a unique, integrative, and holistic approach to therapy, specialising in Gender, Sexual, and Relational Diversity (GSRD). My work is deeply informed by an understanding of neurodiversity, LGBTQI+ issues, and trauma- and shame-sensitive frameworks. I believe in creating a compassionate, safe, and nonjudgmental space where individuals and relationships can break free from societal pressures, cultural expectations, and religious dogma. Together, we can explore your true self and craft a path forward that feels authentic to you.
Hello, I’m Sheena—a qualified Sexologist, Counsellor, and Relationship Therapist. I offer a unique, integrative, and holistic approach to therapy, specialising in Gender, Sexual, and Relational Diversity (GSRD). My work is deeply informed by an understanding of neurodiversity, LGBTQI+ issues, and trauma- and shame-sensitive frameworks. I believe in creating a compassionate, safe, and nonjudgmental space where individuals and relationships can break free from societal pressures, cultural expectations, and religious dogma. Together, we can explore your true self and craft a path forward that feels authentic to you.
(01) 233 7180 x18 View (01) 233 7180 x18
Photo of Lisa Larkin, Psychotherapist
Lisa Larkin
Psychotherapist
Athlone, County Westmeath N37
Hi, I am an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Practitioner offering private appointments in the midlands. I am an experienced mental health professional (I am a registered Occupational Therapist), and I work well with clients experiencing all common mental health problems including anxiety disorders, depression and mood related disorders, PTSD, eating disorders and phobias. I realise it is a very difficult decision to seek help. It takes a lot of courage. I hope that I can make that journey as easy as possible for you by offering an empathetic and reassuring service.
Hi, I am an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Practitioner offering private appointments in the midlands. I am an experienced mental health professional (I am a registered Occupational Therapist), and I work well with clients experiencing all common mental health problems including anxiety disorders, depression and mood related disorders, PTSD, eating disorders and phobias. I realise it is a very difficult decision to seek help. It takes a lot of courage. I hope that I can make that journey as easy as possible for you by offering an empathetic and reassuring service.
(01) 267 6527 x32 View (01) 267 6527 x32
Photo of Stephen Snow, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Stephen Snow
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Athlone, County Westmeath N37
As a Counsellor Psychotherapist I employ a Humanistic approach to counselling. I encourage self-awareness and self-realisation in an individual. I believe people have within themselves all the resources they need to lead healthy and fulfilled lives. As a counsellor I see myself helping clients to discover and access within themselves the restricted resources they need to solve problems. Helping the client safely find their way to the solution. I believe in the best interests of the client at all times and treat everyone with dignity and respect in a non-judgemental authentic approach.
As a Counsellor Psychotherapist I employ a Humanistic approach to counselling. I encourage self-awareness and self-realisation in an individual. I believe people have within themselves all the resources they need to lead healthy and fulfilled lives. As a counsellor I see myself helping clients to discover and access within themselves the restricted resources they need to solve problems. Helping the client safely find their way to the solution. I believe in the best interests of the client at all times and treat everyone with dignity and respect in a non-judgemental authentic approach.
(01) 267 6675 x75 View (01) 267 6675 x75
Photo of Teresa E McGing, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Teresa E McGing
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Athlone, County Westmeath N37
Life is full of challenges, it's how we learn to navigate in our world. I often use the analogy that it's like playing a game on your phone, moving from one level to the next, childhood, teenage years, adult, relationships and often these challenges can overwhelm us. They can fill us with great anxiety, a feeling of being stuck and preventing us from being who we want to be. I am an empathic professional with a desire to support clients in becoming aware of their issues, understanding them, and guiding them in making changes if they want change.
Life is full of challenges, it's how we learn to navigate in our world. I often use the analogy that it's like playing a game on your phone, moving from one level to the next, childhood, teenage years, adult, relationships and often these challenges can overwhelm us. They can fill us with great anxiety, a feeling of being stuck and preventing us from being who we want to be. I am an empathic professional with a desire to support clients in becoming aware of their issues, understanding them, and guiding them in making changes if they want change.
(01) 233 7903 x52 View (01) 233 7903 x52
Photo of Donal Reilly, Psychotherapist, MSc, FTAI
Donal Reilly
Psychotherapist, MSc, FTAI
Serves Area
My experience in supporting clients with mental health concerns has been built over the last 15 years. I work with children, adolescents, couples and individual adults. In the first session the aim is to get to know each other and figure out how we will work together, set up therapy goals and agree on the frequency of the sessions. I will take a detailed history and gain a strong understanding of the current issue by the end of the session. Have a look at my website for more information. www.donalreillypsychotherapycounseling.com
My experience in supporting clients with mental health concerns has been built over the last 15 years. I work with children, adolescents, couples and individual adults. In the first session the aim is to get to know each other and figure out how we will work together, set up therapy goals and agree on the frequency of the sessions. I will take a detailed history and gain a strong understanding of the current issue by the end of the session. Have a look at my website for more information. www.donalreillypsychotherapycounseling.com
086 359 0215 View 086 359 0215
Photo of Valerie Ann Corcoran - Sunflower Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Sunflower Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Serves Area
Upon finishing college I thought of the many needs of potential clients. As a result of this I spent a year working in a drug & alcohol addiction centre. Gaining the experience & knowledge necessary to treat people during & after recovery for addiction. I soon discovered that regardless of the presenting issue most clients presented with having experienced some form of trauma. I then
Upon finishing college I thought of the many needs of potential clients. As a result of this I spent a year working in a drug & alcohol addiction centre. Gaining the experience & knowledge necessary to treat people during & after recovery for addiction. I soon discovered that regardless of the presenting issue most clients presented with having experienced some form of trauma. I then
(01) 267 6622 x50 View (01) 267 6622 x50
Photo of Tina Collum, Psychotherapist, MA
Tina Collum
Psychotherapist, MA
Serves Area
Are you seeking support with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD diagnoses, in need of healthy Coping mechanisms & strategies, Coping with life transitions, Relationship Breakdown, Family Conflict, Work and School issues, Burnout, Bullying, Stress, Boundary Implementation Issues, Personal Development, Self-Care, Self esteem, Suicidal ideation, & Self harm. Together we can work together to help you understand, work through and develop healthy and productive mechanisms to deal with life’s issues. I use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in my therapeutic approach but I will also use other approaches as per clients needs
Are you seeking support with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD diagnoses, in need of healthy Coping mechanisms & strategies, Coping with life transitions, Relationship Breakdown, Family Conflict, Work and School issues, Burnout, Bullying, Stress, Boundary Implementation Issues, Personal Development, Self-Care, Self esteem, Suicidal ideation, & Self harm. Together we can work together to help you understand, work through and develop healthy and productive mechanisms to deal with life’s issues. I use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in my therapeutic approach but I will also use other approaches as per clients needs
(01) 263 0393 x14 View (01) 263 0393 x14
Photo of Dr. Steve Gannon, Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol PSI
Dr. Steve Gannon
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol PSI
Serves Area
I am a Chartered Psychologist of the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI), Psychology lecturer, therapist and published author. Every person is uniquely perfectly imperfect. I work with clients as individuals and take into account what matters most to them. I support them in building skills and living a life in the direction of their deepest values. We can't always prevent life's challenges from occurring but we can change how we respond to the thoughts and feelings that arise when things get difficult. I only use evidence-based interventions.
I am a Chartered Psychologist of the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI), Psychology lecturer, therapist and published author. Every person is uniquely perfectly imperfect. I work with clients as individuals and take into account what matters most to them. I support them in building skills and living a life in the direction of their deepest values. We can't always prevent life's challenges from occurring but we can change how we respond to the thoughts and feelings that arise when things get difficult. I only use evidence-based interventions.
(061) 572 524 x19 View (061) 572 524 x19
Photo of Mary Mullins, Psychotherapist, MIACP
Mary Mullins
Psychotherapist, MIACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a fully accredited Psychotherapist, Counsellor and Supervisor with many years professional experience. I work out of a private room at the Cube Flexi Space, Roscommon town. F42 DX61. I also offer telephone or online counselling. I offer brief (3 - 6 sessions), short-term counselling (6 - 12 sessions) or long-term, open-ended psychotherapy. I work in an interactive manner with - above all - respect, compassion, and humour. So, if anxiety is crippling you or depression is limiting your quality of life, or you are stuck in grief, or in an unhealthy relationship, contact me and together we can find a way to move forward.
I am a fully accredited Psychotherapist, Counsellor and Supervisor with many years professional experience. I work out of a private room at the Cube Flexi Space, Roscommon town. F42 DX61. I also offer telephone or online counselling. I offer brief (3 - 6 sessions), short-term counselling (6 - 12 sessions) or long-term, open-ended psychotherapy. I work in an interactive manner with - above all - respect, compassion, and humour. So, if anxiety is crippling you or depression is limiting your quality of life, or you are stuck in grief, or in an unhealthy relationship, contact me and together we can find a way to move forward.
(01) 267 6622 x42 View (01) 267 6622 x42

How does your Counsellor compare?

Number of Counsellors in Athlone

40+

Average cost per session

€70

Counsellors in Athlone who prioritize treating:

91% Anxiety
74% Depression
74% Trauma and PTSD
74% Stress
72% Relationship Issues
72% Self Esteem
63% Bereavement

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Laya
91% Aviva
91% Irish Life

How Counsellors in Athlone see their clients

93% In Person and Online
7% Online Only

Gender breakdown

65% Female
35% Male
FAQs - About Therapy and Counselling

How can I find a therapist in Athlone?

Search for nearby therapists or counsellors by inputting your city, eircode, or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or eircode into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

Most Counsellors and Psychotherapists listed in the directory are accredited members of the main professional associations, mainly the Irish Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) and the Irish Council for Psychotherapy (ICP). Most Psychologists are accredited members of the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI).

Providers whose professional membership or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Given that professional memberships are not a statutory requirement in Ireland, certain qualified professionals or organisations may choose not to maintain such memberships despite possessing the necessary qualifications. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counsellor?

Counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists can all provide counselling or talking therapy and have credentials and supervised, practical experience that enable them to do so in Ireland. Psychologists have earned a doctoral degree in psychology and many are accredited members of the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI). Counsellors and Psychotherapists are not required to have a doctoral degree, but to belong to a professional organisation such as the IACP or ICP, they must complete a minimum of an NFQ Level 7 programme with 100 hours of clinical experience and a minimum of 450 hours of post-training clinical experience under clinical supervision.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in Ireland could cost between €50 – €90 when seeing a counsellor and €75 - €120 or more when seeing a clinical psychologist. If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

If you are struggling to access therapy due to budget constraints, you could also consider public funded mental health services. The National Counselling Service (NCS) is a government-funded service that provides short to medium term counselling and psychotherapy for free to individuals who have experienced trauma or abuse. The service can be accessed by GP referral or self-referral.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your eircode.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Therapists who are part of a professional organisation such as the IACP, the ICP, or PSI are bound by an ethical framework that requires them to uphold a confidentiality agreement. Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship and only under specific circumstances, such as when there is the potential or known harm to the client or others or when a child is in danger, will a therapist be obligated to break the agreement. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed during the initial consultation.