Frequently Asked Questions
What if I have questions that are not covered here?
Please get in contact with me here and I’ll be happy to answer any additional questions which you may have.
What exactly is Nature-based Psychotherapy?
For me, Nature-based Psychotherapy takes the counselling or therapy relationship from the confines of an office into the great outdoors. Sessions typically takes place in a woodland just outside Galway. Sessions are held around a campfire. Clients are invited to draw upon the rich natural environment to support them as much as they would like. You can learn more by reading here.
Who would find this form of counselling/psychotherapy helpful?
Clients from all walks of life enjoy Nature-based Psychotherapy. The common link seems to be that clients enjoy spending time in nature and can often feel more comfortable opening up outside the confines of a traditional therapy room.
Is this similar to “Walk and Talk” therapy?
No. I generally only offer “walk and talk” therapy if a client specifically requests it. I find that most clients appreciate the warmth and stillness of a campfire setting.
What if the weather is bad?
I see clients in the outdoors all year round. However, if the weather is rainy or cold, the sessions take place from my office in Galway.
What precautions do you have in place for Covid-19?
One of the great benefits of working outdoors is that there is a negligible risk of contracting Covid-19. Our tree stump seating is more than 2m apart. We never come into contact physically and payment is made the use of envelopes. You can read more about Covid-19 here.
I have a bad back. Can I bring my own seating?
Yes, if you’d prefer, you can bring a comfortable camp chair with you.
Do you see couples in nature?
How does Nature-based Psychotherapy work?
Nature-based Psychotherapy offers clients the opportunity to explore challenges in a supportive and confidential space in nature. For many, this is the first time a client has spoken about what’s happened or even began to put the experience into words. Therapy can lead to positive changes such as improving relationships or deeper emotional awareness and self-acceptance, leading to better choices in the future.
What does MIAHIP mean?
MIAHIP means that I am a licenced and accredited member of the Irish Association of Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapy. Accredited status means that I meet the professional standards to practice as a psychotherapist. It also means that I work within the IAHIP ethical framework and code of ethics.
Visit the About page to get more of an understanding of who I am and how I work.
How do you work as a therapist?
I practice using a nature-based and body-centred approach. I will work with you on a physical, mental, emotional and perhaps, spiritual level. I use a non-prescriptive approach by drawing from a broad range of therapeutic tools to help you on your journey. I see my role as helping you to reconnect with your own inner-wisdom and wholeness so that you can realise your full potential in life.
What is body-centred psychotherapy?
Body-centred psychotherapy seeks to integrate a client’s physical body into the therapy process. It views the body as a resource for self-discovery and healing and can help client’s access old memories and emotions. Body-centred psychotherapy uses the body experience in the here and now to bridge the gap between the body and mind.
How long is each session?
Each session lasts 60 minutes.
What types of clients do you see?
I see clients from all walks of life, all ages, backgrounds, belief systems and sexual orientations for individual, couples, and EMDR therapy.
Do you offer online therapy sessions?
Yes, in addition to my Nature-Based Psychotherapy practice, I also offer online therapy using Zoom, a safe and encrypted software application. Online therapy can be ideal for clients with busy schedules, young children, or those who live further away from my face-to-face practice. You can learn more by visiting my dedicated online counselling website.
When do you see clients?
Monday to Friday: 16:00 – 21:30
Click here to make an appointment.
Where are you located?
My practice is located just outside Galway.
Click here for directions.
What is the cost per session?
Fees vary depending on the type of service you’re looking for. I offer a limited reduced rate service for clients directly affected by the Covid-19 crisis. Please check the Fees page for more detailed information.
Are you seeing new clients?
This section is updated regularly. Please see the current answer below.
(Update 03/01/2021) I have limited availability for evening appointments for both individuals and couples. I also have periodic availability for intensive Marathon Couples Therapy.
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How do I make an appointment?
To make an appointment please click here. No letter of referral is required. You can also e-mail.
I offer a free, confidential 15-minute phone consultation where you can ask questions, and get an idea of how Nature-Based Psychotherapy can help.