Start with the support you want
Are you looking for time to explore your own experience, support as a couple, or information about a group? You do not need a diagnosis or a complete account of your history to enquire. A brief description of the type of support you want can help you ask about relevant experience and the way a therapist works.
Check qualifications and professional membership
Look for clearly stated qualifications, professional membership and experience relevant to your enquiry. Where a therapist names a professional body, use that body’s official information or directory to check the details. Accreditation and training are useful information, but they do not replace a conversation about whether the work is suitable for you.
Notice how the first conversation feels
You should be able to ask about the approach, practical arrangements and limits of confidentiality. Consider whether your questions are heard and whether the explanation makes sense to you. It is reasonable to take time before deciding. No website, award-style headline or search position can establish the right therapeutic relationship on your behalf.
Compare the practical details
Ask about fees, session length, cancellation arrangements, frequency and current availability. Consider online versus in-person sessions, the privacy available where you would join online, and the travel needed for appointments. Check whether arrangements differ for individuals, couples and groups rather than assuming a single price or duration applies to all.
Questions you can bring to Liz
You might ask: What is your experience with the concerns I want to explore? How would we begin? What are the fees and session arrangements? Can I attend online? How will we review whether the work is helping? These questions can be discussed without sending private clinical details through a form.
About this practice
Liz Gaffney MIACP is an Integrative and Humanistic IACP accredited Psychotherapist and Supervisor with two decades of experience supporting individuals, couples and groups. Her practice is in Harold’s Cross, Dublin, with online sessions also available. Her full qualifications and approach are set out on the homepage. Enquiring is a first conversation, not a commitment to start therapy.
Your questions
Does a number-one Google position mean someone is the best therapist?
No. Search visibility is not an assessment of therapeutic fit or a guarantee of outcomes. Consider experience, qualifications, practical arrangements and your own conversation with the therapist.
Can I ask about fees before starting?
Yes. Liz’s fees are available on enquiry. Ask about the type of session you are considering so the arrangements are clear.
Where can I check professional-body information?
The Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy provides public information and a therapist directory at iacp.ie. Use the professional body named by the practitioner you are considering.
A simple first step
Enquire about availability, fees and the support you are looking for. Please keep your message brief and avoid detailed personal or clinical information.
Contact LizPractice information based on Liz’s supplied professional biography. Read Liz’s qualifications and approach. For professional-body information, visit IACP.