FAQ

How much does it cost?

Each session costs €60. In certain circumstances a sliding scale may be offered, please contact me for more details.

This can be paid via cash, bank transfer or Revolut.

What if I need to cancel?

If you need to cancel a session we require 24hours notice. See policies and procedures for more information which you will receive after making contact with me.

You can chose to end our therapy sessions at any stage.

What is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?

There is some differences in opinion in the field surrounding this topic! However, from a general sense counselling is usually done on a more short-term basis and covers immediate topics that have just arisen such as relationship breakdown or bereavement. Psychotherapy in contrast is spanned over a longer period of time and delves deeper into more long-standing presenting issues. Childhood trauma affecting a client’s present day self is an example of a therapeutic journey that can occur during psychotherapy.

What services do you offer?

I am a qualified talk therapist offering a warm, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. My approach is humanistic and integrative, meaning I tailor therapy to suit your needs.

I use a mix of techniques, including person-centred and psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness, inner-child work, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). My work is trauma-informed, evidence-based, and guided by the IACP code of ethics.

Whether you’re struggling with past experiences, current challenges, or simply want to understand yourself better, I’m here to help.

What are the first steps?

The first consultation is typically on zoom or phone-call where we have a brief chat around what you expect to get from therapy and why you are reaching out for support. If a consultation seems daunting to you right now-that’s completely normal and we can take it at your pace and do in a way that works for you. During this first chat, we can explore how we would work together and what you want to achieve. I also give a bit of background on how I work with clients and what approaches I use.

Despite the word ‘counselling’ being used to describe the profession there is no counsel or advice given in therapy. It is about providing you the space and freedom for you to find your own answers and navigate challenges that you are facing in your life. After this point you can make an appointment for your first session. Sessions last approximately 50 minutes in length.

How long do I attend for?

Each client will be different with the amount of sessions they attend for therapy. However, typically clients attend weekly at the same day and time for six weeks and then we review how the therapy has been supporting the client, what progress has been made and how the client wants to move forward. Some clients attend for a number of weeks and others for months and years. It is all down to the individual and life circumstances and it is very much open-ended and down to your needs and preference.

Is my therapist fully qualified?

I have completed full professional training and are pre-accredited with the main governing body of Counselling and Psychotherapy in Ireland IACP (Irish Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy).

What if I need support between sessions?

Slieve Sona Therapy is not a crisis intervention services and may not be able to support you in the time between sessions. However, there are supports listed on the ‘Additional Resources’ section on this website that are available in the event you need to talk to someone immediately. In the case where you need an appointment in-between your scheduled appointment or if you are having a particularly difficult period and need extra support if there are appointments available you will be accommodated as soon as possible. In this eventuality you can email or message me to find out availability.

How do you measure process of therapy?

Progress looks different for each individual client. CORE outcome measure forms are used at different intervals throughout the therapy (usually beginning and end sessions) and can provide a clear representation on the progress and well-being of the client. After six sessions your therapist will do a review with you. This is a good time to reflect on the journey so far and how it has been for you. The therapeutic journey is not linear and can be difficult to ‘measure’ as sometimes when we are in deep process it can feel as though we are not progressing. It is about being gentle with yourself and trusting the work is being done internally despite its’ intangible nature at times.

Is online therapy effective?

Research suggests that online therapy can be as effective as in-person for many people. The convenience and ease of online therapy in your own home can be hugely supportive to busy schedules and lives. Online therapy eliminates many barriers for clients such as time, transport and availability.

Where do the sessions take place?

The sessions can take place either online via phone or video call or in my therapy space in Tullamore Co. Offaly. The practice is a quiet, cosy space as you can see from the photos below.

You will be seen at your prescribed appointment time, there will be no queuing.