The terms counselling and psychotherapy are often used interchangeably and overlap in a number of ways. Both are often called `talk therapies`. For the most part, this is because they involve talking to a trained therapist about difficulties you may be having in life. Through counselling and psychotherapy you are provided with a private and confidential space to explore and reflect on issues you bring and identify for yourself changes you might wish to make in your life and relationships.

Counselling and psychotherapy is not a place where you will be told what to do, this does not help and empower you to find your own set of tools, resources that are specific to helping you find your own solutions. The therapeutic process is formed through talking with an understanding listener in an honest, open and free manner. For some, being listened to is precious enough to help them move in a positive direction, whilst others want constructive tools to help them tackle their day to day struggles.

What is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy is an important question if you are thinking of embarking on a therapeutic journey? Counselling is more likely to help with a specific difficulty, current problem or surface issue and is rather shorter term work. An example might include a bereavement or a difficulty that is not necessarily rooted in the past. Where psychotherapy is longer-term and helps with more deep-rooted difficulties that affects a client’s life. Examples might include child abuse or trauma.

The first session is an opportunity for therapist and client to get a sense of each other and whether or not they might work well together. The client will describe what has brought them to seek therapy at that particular time and may speak about their presenting issue as well as some significant events from their past. The therapist will explain a little bit about how they work, and the psychotherapeutic process. At the end of the session a contract may be signed that confirms the intention of client and therapist to work together towards agreed goals.

Each session lasts 50 minutes and typically takes place weekly.

Generally, it takes a couple of sessions for your awareness to increase and to start seeing changes/improvements in your life. However, progress honestly depends on the amount of work you are willing to put in the process. How long you’re in Counselling for also depends on the issues you are experiencing and how complex the issues are. There’s no set limit on the number of sessions you have; I usually recommend to allow yourself a period of 6 weeks to give time for you and I to get to know each other. It also enables us time to work on the issue you wish to bring. Typically, there is a review at the 6th session and at 6 week intervals thereafter.

The full cost per session is €60, with a discounted rate available for unemployed, students and retirees. Note that there is a limited amount of space available for people on the discounted rate. Clients pay the agreed fee before the session and all future payments are to be made in advance via bank transfer- all details will be emailed to you.

In the event of the need to cancel a session, it is important that you contact me immediately. I require a minimum notice period of 48 hours or the full cost of the session will be charged if insufficient notice is given. It may be possible to re-schedule to another day or the following week.

If client wishes to terminate the sessions, I recommend that you inform me in advance. A proper ending can create a sense of closure for both client and therapist, and permit the foundation of a new beginning.

If you wish to get in contact to make an appointment or to discuss any other questions, please feel free to contact me on phone: 899 481 2824 Email: info@mautherapy.com or through the online form on this site.