What kinds of things do people bring to counselling?
Who are my clients?
I work with individuals and couples, and with people of all ages. Sometimes I work with families, for example in the context of a bereavement or other trauma that affects more than one individual in a family. I have a special interest in working with teenagers and am happy to see children as well. Sometimes children and teenagers want to come with their parent(s) or guardians, sometimes not – especially older teenagers. I always like to see the parent(s) with their child at least once though, and will always facilitate contact so that any difficulties I, or you, see arising can be discussed. When working with children I use art and play because children can’t identify and communicate their feelings as adults can. For this reason I only see children in my Youghal practice due simply to equipment and space.
How long does it take?
This is not a straight answer: it depends. I have some clients at present that I have been seeing for years. Some people come every week, some come every couple of months. For some people one session is enough. It’s also important to remember that not every therapist suits every client – so once may definitely be enough:) If this happens I can refer you to someone whom I would hope would be a better fit for you – or you may prefer to continue the search yourself.
If you have a specific reason for coming to therapy or counselling that may influence how often you come. For example some people wish to find ways to cope with panic attacks, or bereavement. Other people choose therapy because they have noticed a pattern emerging in their lives that may not be helpful. For example you may find that you are consistently attracted to abusive men/ women. You may find you can’t keep friends for very long. Or that you can’t make friends. That you are nervous for ‘no apparent reason’ a lot of the time. These are common issues and have varying causes and exploring these may take time.
Some other people come simply because they are curious about how they work as human beings. Self-awareness is often a goal then, and it’s a good one – it keeps us safe!
What is my fee?
My fee for individual work and supervision is €90 and for parent/child sessions and family groups is €120. This is negotiable of you are a student and paying for yourself, or in receipt of full unemployment benefit – feel free to contact me to discuss this. Therapy is tax deductable using your Med1 form. Some insurers partially or fully cover my fee – check your own policy with your insurer to be certain. Some employers cover short term therapy too – if you are comfortable asking, it’s worth asking.
CAN WE GO ONLINE?
Yes. I’ve completed a full Diploma in Cyber Therapy and I use Zoom for online sessions. I send you a link and you pay via Revolut or EFT if you don’t have access to Revolut.
What kinds of things do people bring to counselling?
As I mentioned above, there are many reasons why you may choose to speak to me or someone like me. Usually when clients make their first contact, by phone or email, they have a fairly good idea of the kinds of things they would like to discuss or explore. These things can range, and you may be pleased to know that they are things most of us deal with at least once in our lifetime. It’s a brave decision to start therapy and you’ll feel nervous about it – but that’s normal.
I’ve written a short list if the things have brought people to my room in the past:
• feelings of low self-esteem
• worrying, and panic or anxiety attacks
• feeling depressed or ‘down’ a lot
• suicidal thoughts
• self-harm
• anger issues
• relationship problems (with spouse, parents, children, co – workers etc)
• family or work conflict
• loneliness and isolation
• bereavement
• childhood trauma
• recent trauma
• abuse (psychological, emotional, physical, sexual)
• sexuality issues
• post abortion counselling
If you still have questions feel free to contact me on info@sallyoreilly.com
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