Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is counselling and psychotherapy?

Counselling and psychotherapy are mainly therapeutic talk therapies that can support those who experience distress in their lives. The therapeutic relationship between client and counsellor/psychotherapist is considered to be the most beneficial element of the therapy process where a non-judgmental, empathic and congruent relationship is fostered.

Q. What is supervision?

Supervision in counselling/psychotherapy is where your therapist will discuss issues that may come up in a session to gain the experience and guidance from this qualified professional, to keep you the client and the therapist safe to carry on the work of therapy.
The therapist will not identify you, your address or in any way reveal who you are when presenting clients issues that need supervision. (See contract)

Q. What if there is a technological failure during online therapy ?

We wait a few seconds.
We try to identify the problem, usually it relates to the shared internet connection.
Log out of Zoom and log back in.
If that fails, I will ring you and reschedule your appointment at your convenience.

Q. Is Zoom safe?

Zoom is compliant with GDPR, a set of European regulations that companies must adhere to when handling customers information. Zoom does not record your conversations by default and provides full GDPR compliance information on its website which you can read here. Zoom GDPR Compliance.
All communication using Zoom is private between you and your therapist. Your therapist will send you a secure Zoom link which you should not share it with anyone else.
If you are not happy with therapy provided via Zoom please suggest your preferred alternative such as Microsoft Teams.

Q. Is your website secure?

Yes, any information you enter in website forms is conveyed over the https secure protocol which means it is encrypted. All information received by Athlone Counselling & Therapy will be held in strictest confidentiality and with all due care.

Q. How long is a therapy session?

A therapy session lasts 50 minutes, the last 10 minutes is used to wrap up and schedule the next appointment.

Q. When can I contact my therapist?

The preferred way to contact your therapist is by email. If you need to talk to your therapist by phone please do so between the hours of 9AM and 5PM, Monday to Friday only. If you are having an emergency please see additional services listed on the Resources page.

Q. Who are IACP?

IACP are the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. The IACP is an organisation that accredits qualified Counsellors and Psychotherapists and provides information relating to counselling and psychotherapy in Ireland.