About Cara Counselling
A little about me
I’m Ann Kelly, a fully qualified and experienced counsellor and psychotherapist based in East Galway. For over a decade, I have supported people through difficult periods in their lives, offering a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space where they can talk openly and be heard.
People come to counselling for many different reasons. You may be experiencing anxiety or feel overwhelmed, coping with grief or bereavement, going through a difficult period of change, or simply feel that something in your life isn’t quite right.
My role is not to tell you what to do. I work alongside you, giving you the time and space to explore what you’re experiencing, better understand what you need and find a way forward at your own pace.
My approach to counselling
I believe counselling works best when you feel comfortable enough to be yourself. My approach is warm, supportive and centred around you as an individual. There is no pressure to have everything figured out or to know exactly what you want to say before you come.
Together, we can explore the thoughts, feelings and experiences that may be troubling you, helping you develop greater understanding and discover ways of coping that feel right for you. The work happens at your pace, in a confidential and non-judgemental environment.
Experience & qualifications
I have worked in counselling and psychotherapy for over a decade. I hold a Professional Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the Tivoli Institute, Dun Laoghaire, and I am an IACP accredited counsellor and psychotherapist, working in accordance with the IACP Code of Ethics.
I also hold diplomas in Grief and Bereavement Counselling, Mindfulness and Social Studies, and have completed further training in areas including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Couples Therapy, and Suicide Awareness and Prevention.
As part of my professional practice, I attend regular supervision and undertake continuing professional development (CPD), including training, workshops and other learning to keep my knowledge and practice up to date.
Why the butterfly?
The butterfly has been part of Cara Counselling from the beginning. For me, it represents change, growth and the possibility of a new beginning.
A butterfly doesn’t transform all at once. Change takes time, and our own lives can be much the same. Counselling can provide a place to pause, understand what we’re carrying and gradually let go of some of the things that may be holding us back.
The butterfly is a reminder that change does not have to happen overnight. Sometimes moving forward begins simply by giving ourselves the space and support to start.
Thinking about counselling?
If you’re considering counselling or psychotherapy and would like to find out whether working together might be right for you, you’re welcome to get in touch.
You can call, text or send me a message and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.