Helplink Mental Health - Galway

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

Liam holds a level 8 B.A. (Hons) degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Science (ICHAS) since 2017 and a B. Comm. Degree from NUIG since 1989. Since 2016, he has completed over 500 hours of training in HSE-audited addiction group therapy, psychoeducational modules and individual counselling at Saoirse Addiction Treatment Centre, Limerick. He became an accredited member of the Association of Professional Counsellors & Psychotherapists (APCP) in 2019 and joined Helplink in June 2019.

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). Anne is a member of Play Therapy Ireland & her work is guided by Play Therapy International’s Ethical Framework. Anne is supervised, insured & Garda Vetted.

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). In the last seven years she has been working in her own private practice with children and teenagers with various challenges. 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.

Emma holds a MA in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the Irish Counselling of Humanities and Applied Sciences (ICHAS) and is currently pre-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.

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.

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 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 in the West of Ireland. She is available for Play therapy appointments for children with a range of difficulties aged 3-12

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.

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 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 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.

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 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. Eva-Maria also holds a Certificate in Problem Gambling Addiction from Munster Technical University. 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 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.

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 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.

Mark is a pre-accredited member of the National Association of Professional Counselling and Psychotherapy. He holds an M.A. in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences, M.A. in Psychology from University of Limerick, along with a B.A. (Psychology) from NUIG. He works from a person-centred and CBT perspective in a collaborative manner. Mark’s approach to therapy is based in the belief that each individual has within them the potential for healthy development and growth, where each of us is the expert in our own lives. Mark believes that developing self-awareness and greater understanding can facilitate growth, uncover strengths and lead to a more fulfilling future. He has worked with a wide range of issues including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, personal development, self-esteem, stress, isolation, sleep dis-regulation.

Mark is a pre-accredited member of the National Association of Professional Counselling and Psychotherapy. He holds an M.A. in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the Irish College of Humanities and Applied Sciences, M.A. in Psychology from University of Limerick, along with a B.A. (Psychology) from NUIG. He works from a person-centred and CBT perspective in a collaborative manner. Mark’s approach to therapy is based in the belief that each individual has within them the potential for healthy development and growth, where each of us is the expert in our own lives. Mark believes that developing self-awareness and greater understanding can facilitate growth, uncover strengths and lead to a more fulfilling future. He has worked with a wide range of issues including (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, personal development, self-esteem, stress, isolation, sleep dis-regulation.

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.

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.

Tracey graduated from Robert Gordon University with an 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 had the opportunity to do just that when 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 was a major focus in this position. 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 who were often overwhelmed. Tracey currently works as a Regional Manager for MOVE (Men Overcoming Violent Emotions) Ireland. She is responsible for coordinating teams to deliver a behavioural intervention programme for domestic abuse and support work for victims, as well as providing 1:1 support to clients. Tracey adopts an integrative approach to her clients, incorporating a range of psychotherapeutic modalities- from CBT to psychodynamic – to suit the needs of each individual.