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Counselling, Education & Information

Galway

ANNE CAHILL (Play Therapist):  Anne is a graduate of St Nicholas Montessori College Ireland & has many years experience working with children. She holds a primary degree in Education & Training (NUI, Galway) along with a Post Graduate Diploma in Practice Based Play Therapy, awarded by NUI Galway & the Academy of Play & Child Psychotherapy (QQI Level 9) and a HETAC National Diploma in Montessori Education, with Special Ed, Psychology & Gaeilge. Anne is a member of Play Therapy Ireland & Play Therapy International. Her work is guided by Play Therapy International’s Ethical Framework. Anne is supervised, insured & Garda Vetted.  As well as practicing privately, she has worked with children in various schools, with Helplink’s School Completion Programme, and with the Galway Traveller Movement. Anne is engaged with Continuous Professional Development. She is an Accredited Play Therapist and also a Practitioner in Child & Parent Attachment having trained in this with Big Toes Little Toes Ireland (https://bigtoeslittletoesirl.com). Anne’s areas of special interest include working with children who are experiencing anxiety, divorce/separation, children with ASD, children with ADHD and children who are neurodivergent.

LOUISE CREAMER (Youth Counsellor): Louise holds a MA in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences (ICHAS) as well as a B.A. in Applied Social Studies and Social Care (Waterford Institute of Technology). She is a pre-accredited member of the Association of Professional Counsellors and Psychotherapists (APCP). Louise has over 10 years’ experience working in the social care field as a social care manager. She specialises in working with young people leaving the care system and people at risk of becoming homeless. She has supported children, adolescents and adults who have experienced challenges in their lives. Louise adopts a Trauma Informed and CBT approach with her clients.

MARIE DEMPSEY (Counsellor): Marie is a qualified psychotherapist with a BA (Hons) in Holistic Counselling & Psychotherapy (ICPPD) working towards accreditation with IACP, and also holds a SPA Level 8 Certificate in Mental Health Recovery. She has over 15 years experience working in mental health in the community. Marie works in support of and alongside individuals at points in their life when clarity and change are required, with clients aged 18+. She does through the facilitation of a safe and confidential space to navigate issues such grief, anxiety, relationship and family issues. She will help you identify and cultivate your own internal and external resources that support you as you make sustainable changes to move forward. Marie works primarily in an humanistic and integrative way, which means a holistic and individual to each person approach. This facilitates models and techniques from several therapeutic approaches, which vary depending on the unique to each person needs and goals, where the work is rooted in the person centred, holding the belief that each person is the expert in their own life and healing.

KAREL DALY (Play Therapist): Karel qualified as a Play Therapist and Psychotherapist from the Children’s Therapy Centre (CTC) (Diploma in Play Therapy & Psychotherapy) in 2011. She is a accredited member of the Irish Association of Play Therapy and Psychotherapy (IAPTP). Karel’s experience includes working with children with Autism, Anxiety, Behavioural problems and children who have experienced trauma, abuse, bereavement and loss. She also has extensive experience in dyad work with parents and children.  In addition this this she has completed a two year programme in Systematic Constellation Therapy, incorporating the traditional teachings of Bert Hellinger. Karel has also completed the Principles of Art Therapy Certificate with CTC

EMER GARVEY (Counsellor): Emer holds a MA Degree in Pluralistic Counselling and Psychotherapy with Institute of Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy (IICP) and a Post-graduate Diploma in Adult Guidance and Counselling from National University of Ireland Maynooth (NUIM). Emer is a member of the Irish Institute of Guidance Counsellors (IGC) and is currently pre-accredited with the Irish Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP). Emer adopts a person-centred and integrative approach to counselling which focuses on the individual needs of each client.

CLIODHNA HARTIGAN (Play Therapist): Clíodhna has years of experience working with children in both therapeutic and educational settings. Having worked in the early years sector for several years, Clíodhna has a keen interest in early intervention and understands the importance of using a child’s language ‘play’ within the therapy process. She is a member of Play Therapy Ireland and Play Therapy International, and she adheres to strict codes of practice including carrying out clinical supervision and continuing her professional development. She is Garda Vetted, insured with the Psychologist Protection Society, and noted on the register of Play and Creative Arts Therapists. She has a bachelor’s degree in arts with Children Studies from NUI Galway. She is a certified Play Therapist and holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Practice Based Play Therapy and a Post Graduate Certificate in Therapeutic play skills both awarded by NUI Galway and the Academy of Play and Psychotherapy (QQI Level 9). Clíodhna has also received a certificate in creative clinical supervision awarded by Leeds Beckett University and supports both training and qualified play therapists in their work with children here in the west of Ireland. She is available for Play therapy appointments for children with a range of difficulties aged 3-12.

CONCILLIA JACKSON (Counsellor): Concillia is a pre-accredited member of the National Association of Professional Counselling and Psychotherapy. She holds an M.A. in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences, along with a B.A. (Psych) from NUIG and Diplomas in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Counselling Psychology. She is currently undertaking a post-grad Diploma in Integrative Adolescent Psychotherapy. Concillia practises as an integrative therapist, working alongside the client to find the best approach for their needs.

AOIFE JENNINGS (Counsellor): Aoife holds a MA in Counselling & Psychotherapy (First Class Honours) from the Irish College of Humanities and Applies Sciences in Limerick. She has also completed level 7 modules in Counselling and Psychotherapeutic Skills and Practices, Theoretical Perspectives in Counselling and Psychotherapy and Theoretical Perspectives in Therapeutic Engagement in Practice. Aoife works as both a counsellor and radiation therapist separately and has a particular interest in the psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis and its treatment on the individual or their loved ones. Aoife’s MA dissertation focused on the psychosexual experiences of women following pelvic radiotherapy and is interested in the role of fear and anxiety in sexual wellbeing within this context and outside of it. Aoife has completed workshops in inner child techniques and has completed ASIST training for suicide intervention. Aoife is a pre-accredited integrative therapist with a broad range of knowledge of theories and techniques that are used to tailor an approach to suit the individual client. Aoife welcomes all client issues. Is féidir le hAoife seirbhís iomlán a chur ar fáil trí mheán na Gaeilge.

KATHRYN KELLY (Art Therapist): Kathryn Kelly M.A., is a fully accredited and experienced art psychotherapist. She is an Honours graduate of the Master’s Degree in Art Therapy at CIT and holds a B.A.Hons Degree in Fine Art from GMIT. Kathryn has worked with children, young people and adults in a range of art therapy settings, including palliative care, disability and chronic illness support. She has an extensive background in visual arts, art education and community art. She is a professional member of IACAT, the Irish Association of Creative Arts Therapists and adheres to its regulatory code of ethics. Kathryn uses a client centred approach, combining art making and psychotherapy to explore difficult issues and encourage personal development in a safe therapeutic space. Art therapy can be beneficial in helping with anxiety, depression, stress, bereavement, self-acceptance and many other issues

AISLING KEOGH (Counsellor & Psychotherapist): Aisling holds a Graduate Diploma in Integrative Clinical Psychotherapy (Turning Point/IICP) and an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy from Dublin City University. Since qualifying, she has completed further studies in Child Psychotherapy and Sandplay Therapy with Children and Families. Prior to working in counselling and psychotherapy, Aisling worked in community development, youth work, and family support, and has always enjoyed working with adolescents as well as adults. She is an accredited member of the IAHIP, with seventeen years experience dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, abuse, trauma, grief and loss, low self esteem and suicidal ideation, through various approaches. She has a particular interest in relational psychotherapy, and how the relationship between therapist and client can help a client to heal.

MICHELLE McGAULEY-LEE (Counsellor): Michelle holds a B.A. degree in Counselling Skills and Psychotherapy Studies from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences (ICHAS) as well as a B.A. in Sociological and Political Studies and Economics (N.U.I. Galway). She is an accredited member of the Association of Professional Counsellors and Psychotherapists (APCP). Michelle has experience working with children, adolescents, adults and couples and is also a workshop facilitator for Helplink.
She has a Professional Certificate in Couples Counselling from PCI College.

CLAIRE McREDMOND (Counsellor): Claire has an MA in counselling and Psychotherapy and is pre-accredited with BACP. She has worked as an Assistant Psychologist in the HSE and the Irish Prison Service, working with clients individually as well as leading groupwork programmes. She has a particular interest in child sexual abuse prevention and has recently presented her MA research on non-offending Minor Attracted Persons at the National organisation for the Treatment of Abusers (NOTA) International conference in Leeds. She works with clients in a compassionate, empathic, and non-judgemental way, helping to guide them towards their goal. She strongly believes that the relationship between the client and therapist is fundamental to therapeutic change.

ALEXANDRA MONAGHAN (Counsellor): Alexandra qualified with an MA in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in 2022, from ICHAS and is a pre-accredited psychotherapist with APCP. Her primary degree is a BA (hons) in Early Childhood Studies and she also holds a Higher Certificate in Psychology. She is currently studying with IICP working towards a post graduate diploma in Integrative Psychotherapy with children & adolescents. She works from a compassionate, reflective, holistic framework which incorporates ‘New wave CBT’ methods.

MARY O’CONNOR (Counsellor): Mary holds a MA in Counselling & Psychotherapy from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied sciences (ICHAS) as well as a BA (Hons) in Psychology from the National University of Galway (NUIG). She is a pre-accredited member of the Association of Professional Counsellors and Psychotherapist (APCP). Mary has six years of experience advocating and working with victims of crime and has worked with people from various diverse backgrounds and age groups. She adopts an integrative approach when working with clients using a combination of therapeutic approaches such as humanistic-existential, cognitive behavioural, psychodynamics, and compassion-focused therapies. Mary works from a collaborative, strengths-based approach, assisting and supporting clients to be the author of their own lives. She has experience working with clients experiencing anxiety & social anxiety, stress, depression, Identity, LGBTI+ issues, trauma, and more.

LISA RYAN (Counsellor): Lisa holds a BA (honours) in Counselling Skills and Psychotherapy Studies from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied sciences (ICHAS). She is an accredited member of the Association of Professional Counsellors and Psychotherapists (APCP). She has several years experience working in mental health charities providing counselling. She works with all age groups from 16+.
She will support you in developing and enhancing your coping skills with the ultimate aim of enhancing your mental wellbeing. Lisa will provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to work through any issues you may need support with. Lisa works with an integrative approach which means she will use various approaches depending on your needs. Mostly using cognitive behavioural therapy and person centred therapy and sometimes using mindfulness techniques or psycho-educational tools where beneficial.

JACQUI TRILL (Counsellor): Jacqui holds a B.A. Hons degree in Holistic Counselling and Psychotherapy from the International College of Professional and Personal Development Athlone (ICPPD). She is an accredited member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP). As a trained psychotherapist and counsellor, Jacqui supports individuals to overcome life’s challenges and improve their mental and emotional well-being. Jacqui has the knowledge and experience to guide clients through a wide variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, perinatal mental health and more. Jacqui creates a comfortable and safe environment that encourages clients to express their thoughts and feelings openly and honestly through a compassionate and non judgemental approach. Her therapeutic approaches are tailored to suit a client’s unique needs to empower individuals to develop the coping skills and resilience necessary to navigate life’s challenges and achieve their goals. Jacqui is committed to providing compassionate care, expertise and support every step of the way.


Online Counselling

RONAN DEVANEY (Counsellor): Ronan qualified as a counsellor from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences (ICHAS) in Limerick in 2022.  He also recently completed a Post Graduate Certificate in Gambling studies and Addiction Recovery at ICHAS. He is a fully accredited member of the Addiction Counsellors of Ireland. Ronan is involved in his local community on various committees, organising fundraising.

EVA-MARIA DUNNE (Youth Therapist & Addiction Counsellor): Eva-Maria is a fully accredited member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) and is a graduate of PCI College Dublin and Middlesex University, with an honours Bachelor of Science in Counselling and Psychotherapy (Level 8). Eva-Maria also holds a diploma in Addiction Counselling and has worked as an addiction therapist for Cuan Mhuire. She has many years of experience working with adolescents in an educational setting and has over 15 years experience of volunteering with youth groups. She is currently undergoing her Master’s degree in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy. She is an integrative therapist practicing different theories suited to each individual need, she is solution focused and person-centred. Eva-Maria also holds a qualification in training and development. Eva-Maria is an avid athlete, with three world titles in kettlebell sport and coaches youth groups in the sport.

CIARA FOLEY (Integrative Counsellor): Ciara holds an MA in Counselling and Psychotherapy (Integrative Modalities) from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences (ICHAS). She also holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology & Sociology, a QQI level 5 Certificate in Psychology and Counselling, a QQI Level 6 Certificate in Essential Counselling Skills, and a Professional Diploma in Coaching and Mentoring. She is pre-accredited with National Association for Professional Counselling and Psychotherapy (NAPCP). Ciara’s therapeutic style is integrative which is completely tailored to the client’s needs and goals. Ciara has worked with long-term clients, and short-term clients and feels that her experience as a coach compliments her work as a counsellor.

CARA GIBBONS (Counsellor): Cara holds an MA in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences (ICHAS). She also holds a BSc (hons) in Psychology from Queen Margaret University Edinburgh and an MSC in Health Psychology from NUI Galway. She is accredited with the Association of Professional Counsellors and Psychotherapists (APCP), and pre-accredited with the Irish Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP). Cara’s therapeutic style is evidence-based and integrative, providing counselling that is tailored to individual’s needs.

NATALIE KAVANAGH (Counsellor): Natalie holds an MA (1st class) in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences (ICHAS) and is an accredited member of the National Association for Professional Counselling and Psychotherapy (NAPCP) and The Irish Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP). She provides person-centred counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to long- and short-term clients, both adults and adolescents and tailors her services to meet their needs. Natalie has engaged with a varied client base on issues including anxiety and depression, chronic stress, grief and loss, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation, and sleep disorders. She has also completed a placement at Ireland’s National Rehabilitation Hospital and has a particular interest in working with those in recovery following injury or trauma. Recently Natalie received a Professional Certificate in Couples Counselling from PCI College and is one of Helplink’s online couple counsellors. Natalie has also completed the course ‘An Introduction to the Integrative Perinatal Counselling Model’.

PETROVA MULVEY (Relationship Counsellor): Petrova holds a Higher Diploma in Marriage and Relationship counselling from St. Patricks College Maynooth and has been working as a couples and relationships counsellor for many years. Petrova’s experience includes working with domestic violence, sexual abuse, trauma & PTSD, bereavement, infidelity and addiction. Petrova is pre-accredited with NAPCP. She uses a person centred and often integrative approach tailored to suit the clients needs. Petrova will provide an empathic, compassionate safe space for clients to explore their boundaries, needs and goals.

EMMA TYNAN (Counsellor)Emma holds a MA in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the Irish Counselling of Humanities and Applied Sciences (ICHAS) and is accredited with the Association of Professional Counsellors and Psychotherapists (APCP). She also holds a BSc (hons) in General Nursing. While working in a DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) school, Emma gained experience counselling adolescents. Emma provides an integrative style of counselling that focuses on the individual needs of each client.


Mayo

EDANA BARRETT (Counsellor): Edana holds a BA in Integrative Counselling & Psychotherapy from IICP College Dublin and is currently working towards BSc in Integrative Counselling & Psychotherapy. Edana also works for an addiction treatment centre, Aiseiri. Edana uses an integrative approach – mostly Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Person Centred Therapy, Humanistic & Mindfulness techniques – but is tailored to each individual client’s needs and promotes therapeutic relationship as the foundation of positive changes in therapy. Edana provides a safe and non-judgmental space with empathy for you to discuss whatever arises for you and together through talking you can learn to cope and use tools from therapy to deal with problems you have and which may arise. She has experience working with clients aged 16+ experiencing anxiety & social anxiety, stress, depression, Identity, relationship issues, trauma, and more.

TERESA BURNS (Counsellor): Teresa holds a level 8 B.A. (Hons) degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Science (ICHAS) since 2014. In 2007 she also completed a Certificate in Counselling Skills from the National University of Ireland, (NUI) Maynooth. Furthermore, in 2008 Teresa completed 60 hours bereavement counselling/support training in the Family Life Centre Castlebar and she completed 100 hours of training with Mayo Rape Crisis Centre. She holds accredited member status with the Association of Professional Counsellors & Psychotherapists (APCP) since 2016. Teresa works with adolescents, adults and couples and is also a workshop facilitator for Helplink.

FAY DOLAN (Counsellor): Fay holds an advanced diploma in integrative adult counselling. She studied in England over 4 years with Iron Mill College (sister college to PCI). She has experience working with CRUSE bereavement services and her background would have been 10 years nursing. She is a member of the BACP and currently working towards her accreditation with IACP. Her therapeutic lens would be Rogerian (person – centred), however, she draws on different counselling approaches to suit the individual. She has experience in trauma, bereavement, identity issues, general anxiety and low mood. She has worked with individuals from 18 years+. Fay also sees some clients on our Irish Abroad Service.

ADRIAN FAHY (Counsellor): Adrian graduated with an honours degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy from PCI College. As a therapist he worked with the students of Limerick Institute of Technology, both young and mature, for four years. Here he sat with clients through challenges like anxiety, depression, loss, family issues and low self worth. As a pre-accredited therapist with IACP, Adrian works in accordance with their code of ethics. He practices an eclectic style of therapy, tailoring his approach to meet the individual needs of each client. He also specialises in emotional and binge eating.

MARY GRIFFITHS (Play Therapist): Mary has a background in nursing with qualifications in midwifery and community health. Mary’s work history over time moved towards special needs education while working in Australia with a special interest in Autism Spectrum Disorders. On returning to Ireland, Mary trained with Early Childhood Ireland as an Early Years Educator gaining a Level 6 Major Award and has experience in the primary school and early year’s sector. Mary has a Post Grad Diploma from Sydney University in Community Nursing; and a Post Grad Diploma in Practice Based Play Therapy from NUIG in 2021. Mary sees clients from age 3 to 12 years old.

DAWN LALLY (Play Therapist): Dawn has a Post-Graduate Diploma in Play Therapy, and is in her final year of a Masters in Creative Psychotherapy with the Children’s Therapy Centre. Dawn also has a QQI Level 6 award in Therapeutic Play Skills, and a B.A Degree in Economic and Social Studies. Dawn is a pre-accredited member of the Irish Association of Play Therapy and Psychotherapy (IAPTP) and a student member of the Irish Association of Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapy (IAHIP), and adheres to the ethics of both organisations. Dawn’s experience includes working with children with anxiety, behavioural issues, displacement, birth-related trauma and anger. Dawn works in a child-led way in order to respond to the individual needs of the child and works in partnership with parents to address these needs. Dawn never assumes a, ‘one size fits all approach’, her interventions are informed by the specific needs of the child and family. Dawn has spent over 15 years working with children and families in a community-based setting, supporting families from diverse backgrounds through a broad range of challenges.


Irish Abroad Service

WALTER GIBBONS (Counsellor): Walter is an MA student in Counselling and Psychotherapy (Person Centred Approach) with the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences. Walter holds a degree in education and has worked as a primary school teacher since 2010. Walter taught in both Abu Dhabi and Spain between 2014 and 2016. Walter also spent one year as acting principal of a small school. Walter has experience working face to face with male and female clients of all ages. He is a student member of the National Association for Professional Counselling and Psychotherapy (NAPCP). Walter adopts a person-centred and CBT approach with his clients relying on the work of Carl Rodgers and Irvin Yalom. Walter is particularly interested in trauma, child protection and child welfare issues and making a difference in this area. For his own well being Walter enjoys exercise, coaching underage sports teams and sea swimming.

TRACEY HALLORAN (Counsellor): Tracey graduated from Robert Gordon University with an MSc in Applied Psychology and is currently completing an MA in Counselling and Psychotherapy with ICHAS. She has worked in a range of mental health settings – driven by her passion to understand and help the most vulnerable people in society. She worked as an Area Coordinator for Grow Mental Health, which involved the facilitation of peer support groups for people with a range of mental health disorders, promoting self-care, self-compassion and self-confidence in members. Prior to this, she supported autistic adults to integrate into the community as Social Care Worker for Western Care Association. This position also involved coordinating and supporting family members. Tracey works as a Regional Manager for MOVE (Men Overcoming Violent Emotions) Ireland. Tracey adopts an integrative approach to her clients, incorporating a range of psychotherapeutic modalities- from CBT to psychodynamic – to suit individual needs.

ALANNA HENNIGAN (Counsellor): Alanna is a BA (Hons) student in Holistic Counselling & Psychotherapy with the International College for Personal and Professional Development (ICPPD). Alanna holds a BSc (Hons) in Business with Psychology from University of Ulster and a Diploma in Professional Practice, also from University of Ulster. Alanna offers a safe, compassionate, space where she utilises a person-centred approach, incorporating other therapeutic modalities where best suited to the needs of, and compatibility with, each individual client. Alanna has lived experience of working and living abroad in the Middle East and North America and has a keen interest in yoga, breathwork and mindfulness.

AOIFE HOSTY (Counsellor): Aoife is an M.A student at the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences (ICHAS), where she currently studies Integrative methods in Counselling and Psychotherapy. She also has a B.A in Psychology from University of Galway and an MSc in Psychological Science from University of Limerick. She is a student member with the Association of Professional Counsellors and Psychotherapists in Ireland (APCP) and a graduate member of the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI). She has completed SafeTalk and ASIST courses. Aoife has a keen interest in person-centred and humanistic therapy.

PAULINE LEVINS (Counsellor): Pauline is an MA student in Counselling and Psychotherapy (Integrative) with the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences. Pauline holds a B.Ed (Exeter University), a Post Graduate Diploma in Social Work, (Leeds Polytechnic); a Diploma in Systemic Management, (Roehampton Institute), and an MSc in Systemic Management (University of Sunderland). Pauline has experience in working with domestic abuse, child protection, adoption, fostering, and adult safeguarding. She has also worked as a management and social work consultant, independent supervisor, trainer, and social work service manager. Pauline is experienced in exploring neuro-diversity from the client’s perspective and has also assisted parents who are navigating educational challenges with their children. Pauline uses a person-centred approach combined with an affective relational understanding in her counselling practice. She utilises CBT and systemic tools as appropriate for the individual. Pauline is a student member of the Association of Professional Counsellors and Psychotherapists (APCP) and of The National Association for Professional Counselling and Psychotherapy (NACP). She is registered with CORU as a social worker.

MICHELLE LOUGHLIN (Counsellor): Michelle is a MA student in Counselling and Psychotherapy (Integrative) with ICHAS. She holds a Degree in Mental Health Nursing (Queens University Belfast) and a Higher Diploma in Mental Health Nursing (NUI Galway). She has a special interest in Mindfulness and has a Diploma in Teaching Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy. Michelle is working as a mental health nurse with the HSE since 2001. She has experience working with people aged 18-90 who experience depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, psychosis, schizophrenia, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, perinatal mental health, bereavement, sexual abuse, domestic violence, childhood and current trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, psychosocial stressors, addiction, low self-esteem. Michelle works as an integrative therapist, identifying with the client the best approach to meet their need to help empower them to develop the coping skills and resilience they need. She offers a safe and non judgmental space, using a person-centred approach utilizing CBT, Mindfulness and Trauma-sensitive mindfulness, Anxiety Management techniques, Decider Skills, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Deep Listening. She has attended Gender Identity skills training and is trained in Mentalization Based Therapy. She has a special interest in working with people with diagnosis of personality disorders. Michelle is a member of APCP. She is registered with An Bord Altranais as a Mental Health Nurse.

CORMAC LYONS (Counsellor): Cormac is a graduate of the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences where he achieved a Master’s Degree in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Throughout his time practising, he has worked with clients aged between 18-60. He has helped clients cope with various mental health issues like depression and anxiety as well as other issues such as anger and stress management. Cormac’s dissertation was focused on the attitudes that men living in Ireland have towards seeking professional mental health help and has completed various workshops on topics such as EDMR.


Gambling Problem Counselling Service

MARY FINNEGAN (Addiction Counsellor): Mary has graduated with a MA in Addiction Studies with Dublin Business School, a BA in Addiction Studies in Athlone IT, a Certificate in Youth Work Practice, and a Diploma in Community Development & Practice, with NUI Galway. She is an accredited member of the Addiction Counsellors of Ireland (ACI) and has worked over 8 years as a Deputy manager in an emergency respite centre for young people in care. She has also trained and worked as Advocacy support worker in residential mental health facilities, both residential and day services. She specialises in providing a variety of therapeutic supports for clients experiencing, mental health difficulties, dual diagnosis, engaging in cross addiction behaviours, crises interventions and a vast range of both behavioural and psychological addictions.

KEVIN HOGAN (Addiction Counsellor): Kevin holds a BA Hons degree in counselling and addiction from the Tralee Institute of Technology and is an executive director (treasurer) of the Addiction Counsellors of Ireland (ACI). Kevin is fully accredited with the Addiction Counsellors of Ireland is a member of the accreditation committee and has a wide range of experience in the addiction field.

LIAM O’GRADY (Addiction Counsellor): Liam holds an honours degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Science since 2017. Liam trained in individual and group addiction treatment in Saoirse Addiction Treatment Centre, Limerick for over 3 years before joining Helplink in June 2019. He also has experience in working with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and sleep disorders. Using a person-centred and integrative approach, Liam uses Solution-Focused counselling and CBT to help clients heal and progress. He became a fully-accredited member of the Association of Professional Counsellors & Psychotherapists in 2019 and the Addiction Counsellors of Ireland in 2022.


HSE Gambling and Gaming Counselling Service

HAMZA MAHONEY (Addiction Counsellor): Hamza Mahoney is pursuing a Master of Science in Loss & Bereavement (Clinical Practice) at RCSI and the Irish Hospice Foundation. He has a first-class honours Bachelor of Arts in Counselling with Addiction from Munster Technological University. Professionally, he holds Pre-Accredited Membership with IACP and Accredited Membership with ACI. Hamza offers diverse counselling modalities encompassing face-to-face and remote sessions for individuals facing addiction, anxiety, depression, loss, and grief, with extensive experience working in an addiction rehabilitation centre and managing transitional housing. He is driven by a passion for catalysing positive change, excels in community enrichment programs and is adept at fostering meaningful connections. Hamza works on our Gambling & Gaming Addiction Program.

GARY McCREADY (Addiction Counsellor): Gary holds a BA in Counselling & Psychotherapy with Addiction Studies, a BA Level 8 in Counselling & Psychotherapy (First Class Honours), and a Level 9 Certificate in Addiction Studies (Gambling), all from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences in Limerick. He is a fully accredited member of the National Association for Professional Counselling & Psychotherapy (NAPCP), and a pre-accredited member of the Addiction Counsellors of Ireland (ACI). Gary works on our Gambling & Gaming Addiction Program.

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