FAQ

What is counselling/psychotherapy and how does it work?
Counselling and psychotherapy provide a safe, supportive space to talk through your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Together, we explore what you are facing, understand patterns, and work towards positive change. Therapy isn’t about giving advice—it’s about helping you gain clarity, resilience, and new ways of coping.

What issues can I bring to therapy?
You can bring anything that feels important to you. Common reasons people seek therapy include anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, trauma, stress, low self-esteem, grief, and life transitions. Some clients simply want a space for self-reflection and personal growth.

Do you work with addiction concerns?
Yes. I offer support for those struggling with difficulties related to alcohol, drugs, gambling, or other addictive behaviours. Therapy can help you understand the root of these patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and work towards recovery at a pace that feels manageable for you.

What is EMDR therapy and how can it help?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a structured therapy used to help people process distressing memories and trauma. It works by allowing the brain to reprocess experiences that may feel “stuck,” reducing the emotional intensity linked to them. EMDR can be very effective for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and other difficulties.

What happens in the first session?
Your first session is an opportunity to get to know each other. We’ll talk about what brings you to therapy, what you’d like to gain, and how we might work together. It’s also a chance for you to ask questions and see if you feel comfortable with me as your therapist.

How does confidentiality work?
Everything you share in therapy remains confidential. The only exceptions are very rare situations where I may have a legal or ethical obligation to share information for your safety or the safety of others. We will discuss this fully in your first session.

How long does therapy usually last?

The length of therapy varies depending on your needs. Some people benefit from short-term work over a few weeks or months, while others find longer-term therapy helpful. Sessions are usually held weekly for between 50 and 60 minutes, but we can discuss what feels right for you.

Do you offer clinical supervision?
Yes. I provide clinical supervision for trainee and qualified therapists. My supervision approach is collaborative and aims to support your professional development, ethical practice, and well-being as a practitioner. Please contact me to discuss availability and fees for supervision.

What are your fees, and how do I pay?
Session fees are €75 payable by the link on the website or cash. I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. Cancellations with less notice will be subject to the full fee.

Do you offer online sessions?
Yes. I offer both in-person sessions at my practice and online sessions via a secure video platform. You can choose whichever option feels most comfortable and practical for you.

What are your qualifications and professional memberships?
I am a qualified Counsellor and Psychotherapist and a registered member of Association of Professional Counsellors and Psychotherapists (APCP) and Addiction Counsellors of Ireland (ACI). I adhere to their professional ethical guidelines and standards.

How do I know if therapy is right for me?
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply want a safe place to talk, therapy may be a good step. Many people are unsure at first—that’s perfectly normal. An initial session can help you decide whether it feels like the right fit.

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General information
Location: Rivercourt Business Suites, River Lane, Dundalk, Co Louth A91 K5F6
Appointment hours: You can view available appointments in the calendar function of this website
Contacting me: You can get in touch via phone (0877770027), email alanduffcounselling@gmail.com or by using the contact form on the website.