Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), also known as cognitive therapy, is usually short-term, but where difficulties begin in childhood, treatment may take six to eighteen months. This does not necessarily entail weekly contact.

CBT is problem-focused, practical, and user-friendly. Research worldwide has shown it to be effective for a wide range of difficulties, including depression, anxiety disorders, low self-esteem, and childhood-related problems.

To be effective, CBT may involve some emotional distress or anxiety at times, but this will not be undertaken before you feel ready. You may be asked to engage in exercises such as thought records, graded exposure, or behavioural change. Following assessment, which may take several weeks, we will agree together on a contracted number of sessions.

Systemic Psychotherapy
Systemic psychotherapy (also known as family therapy) explores how relationships, family systems, and wider social contexts shape our experiences and difficulties. It can be helpful for individuals, couples, and families, and often focuses on patterns of communication and interaction across generations. The aim is to create new ways of relating that support change, resilience, and well-being.

I have completed professional training in systemic psychotherapy and I am an accredited member of both the Family Therapy Association of Ireland (FTAI) and the Irish Council for Psychotherapy (ICP).

Accreditation
I hold a Postgraduate Diploma in CBT and am a fully accredited member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP).

I am also an accredited member of the Family Therapy Association of Ireland (FTAI) and the Irish Council for Psychotherapy (ICP).

Sessions, Records, and GDPR
- All documentation is stored securely in a locked filing cabinet in a locked room.
- Electronic communication will be sent only via a work-only encrypted email account. Sensitive documents will be password-protected, with passwords sent separately by text message.
- If you request access to your records, at least two weeks’ notice is required, and an administration fee may apply.
- Records for adults are destroyed after seven years. Records for children are destroyed seven years after they turn 18.
- Your information will never be shared with a third party without your prior written consent, except in cases outlined under “Exceptions to Confidentiality” below.
- Appointment reminders may be sent by text message.

Online Therapy
Sessions may be conducted online via Teams, WhatsApp, or Google Meet. Sessions depend on internet connectivity, and if a session drops, we will attempt to reconnect as soon as possible. If this is not possible, we will complete the appointment by phone.

Documents may be shared electronically using a secure encrypted provider (ProtonMail). Best practice is for the client to also use ProtonMail. Any identifiable or personal information shared should be password-protected, with the password sent separately by text message.

Please note: if you are engaging in online therapy while located outside of Ireland, you may not have access to Irish professional or regulatory bodies’ complaints procedures. This means you may have no formal avenue for complaint while abroad. It is important that you are aware of this limitation before we agree to work together.

Online therapy is not a crisis service and may not be suitable for clients who are actively suicidal, or who experience mania, psychotic symptoms, or other acute difficulties. If risk is identified, you will be asked to provide a trusted contact person and GP details. In emergencies, your nominated contact, GP, or emergency services may be contacted.

Helpful Numbers
- Samaritans: 01 872 7700
- Pieta House: 01 883 1000
- HSE Out-of-Hours GP Service: Available by area – GP Out of Hours (hse.ie)
- Gardaí/Ambulance: 112 or 999

Payments and Cancellations
- All sessions must be paid for on the day of your appointment.
- Further appointments cannot be facilitated if there is money outstanding.
- A minimum of 24 hours’ notice is required to cancel or reschedule.
- Cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice, or non-attendance (no show), will be charged the full session fee.

Exceptions to Confidentiality
Confidentiality is a central part of therapy. However, there are specific exceptions where confidentiality cannot be maintained:
- Where there is evidence of a clear and imminent danger of harm to self or others, I am legally required to take steps to ensure safety.
- Under Irish law, therapists must report suspected physical, sexual abuse, or neglect of a person under the age of 18 to TUSLA.
- If required by a court order issued by a judge.
- I attend professional supervision to ensure best practice. In supervision, identifying details are not shared, and confidentiality is maintained.

Recordings
Recording of sessions is strictly prohibited unless explicitly agreed upon by both client and therapist for therapeutic purposes (e.g., exposure tasks).

Client Agreement
I have read and understood the above information. I understand how my data will be stored, the limits of confidentiality, and what is expected of me as a client. I consent to engage in counselling or psychotherapy with Leinster Cognitive Therapy.

Signed: _______________________________
Date: _________________________________

For clients under the age of 18, the following must be signed by parents.

 

I/We have read and understand the above information. I/We understand why and how client data is stored, the nature and limits of confidentiality, and what is expected of clients. I/We agree to…………………………………………… engage in counselling or CBT with Leinster Cognitive Therapy.