About Me

Years ago, after studying in Dublin (where I'm from) I pulled up my roots and became a Londoner.

Now, as there is a proven need for online counselling, I’m happy to meet via Zoom or Skype. The matter of location is no longer an issue.

My education and training continued here in London (see qualifications listed below). The next step was volunteering for Victim Support and then counselling teenagers in inclusion units, which inspired me to begin my counselling training. I have since counselled clients with a wide variety of problems for nearly two decades. I have always been drawn to helping people and this brought me to work in counselling services, which provided me with a new sense of purpose in what I was doing.

I’ve always believed that we can get more out of life if we’re willing to change. And I know now that change is possible in the deepest sense you can imagine.

 

 

Although the issues that bring my patients into treatment are usually highly specific (a difficult transition in life, work stress, anxiety, etc.), I have noticed that when they improve in that one area, they often report an ability to solve problems and enjoy life more in other areas. How can that be?

After looking into the matter, I believe it reflects what is called neuroplasticity – the brain's amazing ability to literally rewire itself through a process of concerted thinking, learning, and acting.

This is the same process that shapes a child’s abilities in the first place. And that, I think, helps explain why warmth and caring on the part of a counsellor, much like that of a good parent, is essential for successful treatment. As one review of more than 500 studies on the effect of therapeutic empathy concluded, “the evidence is nothing short of amazing.”

I have over seventeen years of experience working with clients in the following areas:

  • Anxiety, General Anxiety Disorder and Panic Attacks
  • Depression and Postnatal Depression
  • Stress and Tension
  • Low self-esteem and Confidence Issues
  • Absence of direction or meaning in life
  • Loss and Bereavement
  • Life Coaching, career support and Personal Development
  • Cancer
  • Anger management
  • Child related issues and parenting difficulties
  • Trauma and Crisis situations
  • Spirituality

I have studied Mindfulness Meditation which I practise daily, and often introduce in sessions to help ease anxiety, lift depression and resolve other difficulties.

One final thought: as a counsellor I always enjoy seeing patients become energised and optimistic, especially when relationship issues are involved. We human beings are constructed to get most of our fulfilment from how well we relate to others, so if you’re having a difficult relationship in work or your private life, or if you’re scarcely having any relationships at all, give me a call. If you are suffering from anxiety attacks, stress, bereavement or a host of other issues, please do not hesitate, contact me. You were meant to do better.

So far I have achieved the following:

  • PGCE in Counselling, Psychosynthesis & Education Trust
  • Diploma in Person-Centred Counselling
  • Registered with the BACP (British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy) where I achieved an MBACP
  • BA in Business Studies
  • PGCE in Education
  • Certificate in CBT studies (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
  • Sexual dysfunction training (Spectrum Therapy centre)
  • Mindfulness teaching and Mindfulness Meditation
  • Ecopsychology training
  • Couple and relationship counselling

Start your
Journey

If you have questions please contact Mary directly.

GET IN CONTACT
Mary Mcilroy Counselling

BACP Accreddited, BUPA rqegistered anxiety counsellor therapist offering face to face counselling & online counselling sessions.

07769 218 281
mcilroy.mary@gmail.com
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10% of income donated to
environmental charities.