Starting counselling can feel like a big step. Many people feel unsure about what the process will be like or what happens after they reach out.

The aim of counselling is to provide a safe, confidential space where you can talk openly and begin to understand what is going on for you or your child. Below is a simple outline of what you can expect when you contact Tipperary Counselling Service.

You can make contact by phone, email, or through the contact form on this website.

Once you make contact, we will respond as soon as possible to arrange a suitable time for an initial session or to answer any questions you may have before booking.

There is no obligation to continue beyond the first meeting. The initial session simply allows us to explore what support may be helpful.

The first session is an opportunity to talk about what has been happening for you and what has led you to seek support at this time.

It is a relaxed conversation where we begin to understand your concerns, your goals, and what you would like to change or improve in your life.

You are welcome to ask questions about the counselling process so that you feel comfortable and informed about how we will work together.

If you decide that counselling feels helpful, sessions can continue at a pace that suits you.

Counselling provides a supportive space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, helping you gain greater understanding, develop new coping strategies, and move towards meaningful change.

All sessions are confidential and conducted in a respectful, non-judgemental environment.

When counselling is arranged for a child or young person, the process begins slightly differently to ensure that appropriate consent and support are in place.

Before a child begins counselling, parents or guardians attend an initial intake session. This meeting allows us to discuss your concerns, gather important background information, and ensure that counselling is appropriate for your child at this time.

During this intake session we will also review and complete the necessary consent forms, which are required before counselling with a minor can begin.

This meeting also provides an opportunity for parents or guardians to ask questions and to understand how the counselling process works for children and teenagers.

Once consent forms have been completed and the intake discussion has taken place, a first session can then be arranged with the child or young person.

Counselling is a confidential process. What is discussed during sessions remains private, except in rare situations where there may be a risk of harm to the client or to someone else, in which case appropriate steps may need to be taken to ensure safety.

If you have any questions about confidentiality or the counselling process, these can always be discussed during your first meeting.

Reaching out for support can feel difficult, but it is often the first step towards meaningful change.

If you would like to learn more or arrange an appointment, please feel free to get in touch. Click on the Contact Us page or

Call Deirdre on 0868918075 or email deirdre@tipperarycounsellingservice.ie