Counselling & Psychotherapy in Galway & Across Ireland

Counselling & Psychotherapy

(Outdoors – Indoors – Online)

If you’ve answered yes to any of the above questions, then perhaps Nature-based Psychotherapy could be of help.

What is Nature-based Psychotherapy?

Working therapeutically in nature is not a new concept. It has been around for many years. I do notice however, largely as a result of the pandemic, that more people are seeking out different ways to connect with, and be, in nature. Ecotherapy, as it’s sometimes referred to as, is finally reaching the mainstream. It couldn’t be happening at a better time. Not only are we faced with a pandemic, we’re also struggling to cope with an environmental crisis on a global scale. Part of the invitation with Ecopsychology or Nature Therapy, is to reconnect with both our internal and external natural worlds. There is much to be healed in most of us and part of that healing journey can be to “re-attune” ourselves with nature. Ultimately, we are a part of nature itself. Seeing ourselves as different or as more evolved than the “other-than-human” world is a huge part of the reason why we’re in this mess.

Why have a counselling session outside when I can comfortably see a therapist indoors?

Is counselling outdoors the same as meeting a friend for a chat in nature?

No. Meeting friends for a walk is a fantastic way to support your self-care. Ecotherapy is different. As an accredited psychotherapist, I’m a trained listener. I’ve also taken part in specialised training to see clients in nature. I’ll listen to whatever you have to say, wherever you’re at, with kindness and compassion. You’ll have the unique freedom to share with someone without judgement. What you share with me is confidential, so there is no risk of someone betraying your inner world. While friends have their place, sometimes things are just too personal to discuss with someone whom you know.

I wonder if this could help my relationship. Do you see clients for couples therapy?

Yes. I also see clients for couples therapy or marriage counselling. I can see you from my office in Galway. Clients also travel from Mayo, Clare and across Ireland. For more information, please visit the couples counselling page.

We live in Ireland – what if the weather is bad?

Get an answer to this and many other questions by visiting the FAQ page.

What should I expect in the first Nature-based Counselling session?

You can also bring a camping chair if you’d find that more comfortable. As far as I’m aware, I am currently the only psychotherapist in Ireland who sees clients by a campfire. This is truly a unique and nourishing experience in itself. That being said, I have a fantastic group of colleagues who are trained therapists, dotted across the country. You can meet them all here.

If you’d like to avail of “walk and talk” therapy, just let me know as it’s something I can also offer on request.

Only a moderate level of fitness is required to access to the woodland. Bring a bright torch and dress warmly in layers. You will also need a pair of wellingtons to walk through a wetland. We can discuss all this in more detail over a phone conversation. In the interests of Covid-19, I invite that you follow a “leave no trace” philosophy by bringing your own bottled water and tissues. There are of course, no toilet facilities in the woods, so please go before you arrive!

How do I make an appointment?

Simply visit the integrated booking page and choose an appointment time that suits you. Please scroll past my online offerings or click on the direct links here for Nature-based Psychotherapy or Nature-based Couples Counselling. See you in the woods!

I offer a free, confidential 15-minute phone conversation where you can speak about the issues which you’re facing and find out if Nature-Based Psychotherapy or Couples Counselling can help. Please contact me to arrange a telephone appointment.