How counselling works
FAQ : Frequently Asked Questions
Here you'll find a series of questions that I hear again and again. If you have any additional questions after going through the FAQ list, get in touch and I'll get back to you ASAP. If you're interested in learning more about topical issues in counselling and psychology check out my blog on this site.
How does counselling start?
When the time is right and you’re ready to talk, contact me. If I think I can help, and you’re prepared to meet, we will arrange an initial meeting either in my counselling rooms in Oughterard or Cookes Corner or Online through Zoom, Skype or WhatsApp. At this initial consultation we will discuss your issues in general terms and agree the best way forward, whether it’s a single session or a series of sessions, whatever we feel will best address the given situation.
What happens in therapy?
Firstly, there is no couch or lying down, just a small room with two armchairs or online through Zoom, Skype or What'sApp, where counsellor and client talk for 50 minutes. While the sessions are relaxed and informal; they are not a cosy chat between friends or family but instead a collaboration between two people working towards an agreed goal.
We start by getting to know one another, and looking at clues as to what might be at the heart of the issue. Then we look at where the client would like to be in their lives and we formulate a general plan as to how best to achieve that goal.
How long does counselling take?
The length of counselling varies from person to person. It depends on the extent of each individual’s problems and the rate at which they are prepared to go to effect change. For some with a specific issue, short term therapy with anything between 1 to 8 sessions can be sufficient for their need. In these instances Brief Solution Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) are effective counselling methods. Others have come to a time in their lives where they want to have a deeper look at some issues. For them psychotherapy offers the invitation to explore the deeper parts of themselves and to gain greater self-knowledge.
Is Counselling and Psychotherapy totally confidential?
Counselling and Psychotherapy is a confidential service. In my practice maintaining the confidentiality of the client is of paramount importance. I adhere to a strict code of ethics of the the Irish Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP). However, there are certain ethical and legal obligations which must also be considered and include the rights and welfare of children and minors. During the first session these rare exceptions to confidentiality will be explained.
What issues is Declan Brady trained to deal with?
I am trained and experienced in dealing with the whole spectrum of counselling problems from anxiety and panic attacks to depression and relationship breakdown. You can be confident that any personal problem you have will be dealt with sensitively and compassionately.
How long does each session last?
Each counselling/psychotherapy session lasts 60 minutes and generally takes place on a weekly basis.
How much does a session cost?
My fee is €60 per session. A small number of places are available at a reduced fee for those who cannot afford the full fee.
What is the difference between Counselling and Psychotherapy?
Although some therapists cliaim that ‘Counselling’ and ‘Psychotherapy’ mean much the same thing, the term ‘Counselling’ tends to be used for short term 1-10 session therapy suitable for specific easily defined problems, whereas ‘Psychotherapy’ is the preferred term when talking about more longer term therapy that explores the deeper roots of personal 'psyche' issues. Some people choose to attend psychotherapy on an on-going basis.