Services

Marie has her practice in Moycullen, Co. Galway.

Marie integrates psychological theory and research in her role as a psychologist. She has a strong background in carrying out psychological research and this on-going research forms the basis of her approach to working with clients. For Marie, the aim is to support each client with their particular psychological needs in a confidential, professional and caring environment. Marie works with individuals experiencing distress and difficulties associated with transitions and life events, mental health concerns, decision-making, work or career difficulties, and matters concerning family and social relations.

Marie works with a range of psychological and emotional problems such as:

• Anxiety – general
• Bereavement
• Confidence and self-esteem
• Coping skills
• Coping with illness
• Depression
• Panic attacks
• Phobias
• Social anxiety
• Work related issues

Marie draws on expertise in a number of therapeutic approaches such as existential therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, psychoanalytic therapy and solution focused therapy. Marie also supports individuals in the general area of psychological coaching. This entails building self-esteem and overcoming negative patterns of behaviour, which prevent individuals from attaining their goals.

Marie adheres to an integrated set of core values:

• Individuals are viewed as agents in their own life, and working with their own internal strengths are integral to the therapeutic relationship
• The approach to assessment and case conceptualisation is holistic and client-centred, with due consideration given to an individual’s own social context and culture
• The therapeutic process is one which proceeds with sensitivity of different sociocultural factors, which are unique to each individual

What do the sessions involve?

The client usually comes with a number of problems, so the first few sessions concentrate on an assessment of the problems that are of concern. Then a suitable approach is developed. Here is a brief overview of some of the approaches taken:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)  

CBT focuses on challenging and changing unhelpful cognitive distortions and behaviours. It aims to improve emotional regularity and the development of personal coping strategies that target solving current problems. CBT helps the client to understand that thoughts and actions can affect the way they feel.

Existential and Humanistic Therapy (EHT)

EHT focuses on concepts that are applicable to human existence such as death, freedom, responsibility and the meaning of life. For some existential theorists there is no such thing as psychological dysfunction or mental illness; rather it is an individual’s way of relating and interacting with their world. Individuals are beings of continual change and transformation. Attention is given to the entire context of the client’s life – social, spiritual, individual. This approach appeals to individuals who are searching for meaning in life.

Solution focused therapy (SFT) or brief therapy

SFT is future-focused, goal-directed and focuses on solutions, rather than on problems. It is a practical, goal-driven model of therapy. It assumes that clients have some knowledge of what would make their life better, although they may need help in describing the details of their better life. In therapy there is an examination of previous solutions, exceptions to these solutions and present and future-focused questions, which aim to help the client lead this better life.

Coaching

Coaching, in a psychological sense, involves using the science of psychology in practical, down to earth ways to support the client in creating his or her own success at work and in life. It supports clients by helping them to set out their own path for personal success in life and at work. It does not provide a set of answers. A client’s beliefs and assumptions, which seem to be preventing him or her from reaching their potential are constructively challenged. The client explores a different path to follow, which can support a more successful and more satisfying life.

If you would like more information from Marie please use the contact form or phone 085 1161312

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