Our Team

*RISE COUNSELLING PAY PARTICULAR ATTENTION TO THE ETHICAL BOUNDARY OF CONFIDENTIALITY AND TO ENHANCE THIS WE ENSURE THAT YOU WILL NOT BE PLACED WITH A COUNSELLOR YOU KNOW. WE ALSO STAGGER OUR APPOINTMENT TIMES IN SUCH A WAY THAT YOU ARE UNLIKELY TO MEET OTHER CLIENTS AT THE PRACTICE.

Wayne Hamilton BA (Hons), Dip MIACP

Counsellor & Psychotherapist, Practice Manager

Founder and practice manager at RISE, Wayne is an accredited, experienced psychotherapist holding a 1 st Class Honours Degree in Counselling & Psychotherapy from DBS, a Practitioners Cert in CBT and CORST (College of Relationship & Sex Therapists) accredited training in couples therapy. Wayne is a fully accredited member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and works within their codes of ethics and practice. Previously Wayne has volunteered with ISPCC ChildLine and also has a background in social care settings having worked with service users who are marginalized or disadvantaged in some way within the community such as those with serious illness and children on the autism spectrum. He has also practiced as a psychotherapist at Living Life Counselling in Bray, a charitable organization and is an affiliate of both OPTUM and Health Assured Employee Assistance Schemes. Wayne coordinates counselling relationships for several local organisations, including cancer societies and womens aid.

Wayne creates a warm, safe, non-judgmental space for individual counselling and his practice is humanistic, integrative and psychodynamic in nature. Wayne believes that each of us at our unique core, have the capacity to heal and learn from our wounding, to have a better relationship with ourselves and to live fully, always moving towards wholeness. He has particular interest and skill in the areas of abandonment and isolation, trauma and PTSD, anxiety and major depressive episodes.

Moya Nulty BSc. PGCert, Counsellor & Psychotherapist

Moya graduated from UCD with a degree in Psychology and History. Having worked as a teacher for many years she studied at PCI college and obtained a Diploma in Psychotherapy/Counselling and went on to receive a BSc. (1 st class Honours) in Psychotherapy/Counselling from Middlesex University. Later she completed a Postgraduate Cert in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy with IICP Institute.

Working from an integrative humanistic perspective, Moya draws on different therapeutic approaches but the work is always grounded in a person centred approach tailored to the suitability of the client. Moya is particularly interested in working with children and young adults. Through play therapy she has worked with young people who are struggling with issues like anxiety, depression, low self- esteem, bereavement and loss, panic attacks, self-harm, eating disorders, stress, trauma and school related issues.

Moya is a fully accredited member of IACP.

Louise Doran Bsc, PGDip, Cert Therapeutic Play, Counsellor & Psychotherapist

Louise Doran trained with P.C.I. College Dublin and obtained a degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy. Louise has a special interest in Eating Disorders and went on obtained a Diploma in Practitioner’s Skills for Eating Disorders with The National Centre for Eating Disorders U.K. She also completed further training in C.B.T (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) with Zestlife College.

Louise works with adults and adolescents one to one. Louise has worked in the Loretto counselling Center for 5 years before starting her private practice in Wicklow and Wexford. Louise finds C.B.T. to be extremely helpful in overcoming anxiety/panic attacks, low self-esteem, depression, anger and many other problems. Louise is fully accredited with the I.A.C.P. (Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and works under their code of ethics. she has worked for many years treating people from all walks of life with many different issues and problems. She is currently training in Therapeutic Play Skills and intends to continue my professional training, well in to the future.

Louise believes that every person is unique and so deserves a therapist who is professional and expertly trained. She is motivated by a genuine desire to help people reclaim their lives. Healing from past hurts, dealing with present issues and making change all require a safe and accepting place to do so. Louise believes that the client/counsellor relationship is of the utmost importance. Her strengths lie in creating a non-judgmental environment where clients can feel comfortable without the fear of blame or stigma, and to know that she will do her very best to support and help you.

Louise is a fully accredited member of IACP.

Deirdre Devlin, BA, Dip Psychotherapy, Cert. Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy, MIAHIP.

Deirdre has a Post Graduate Professional Diploma in Counselling & Psychotherapy from Tivoli Institute , Dun Laoghaire, a Certificate in Child & Adolescent Counselling & Psychotherapy from the Irish Institute of Counselling & Psychotherapy. Deirdre is currently studying for a Masters qualification in Integrative Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy in the Irish Institute of Counselling and Psychotherapy.

Deirdre is a humanistic and integrative psychotherapist with extensive experience providing counselling and therapeutic services for adults, adolescents, and children. She has a particular interest in working with teenagers and the issues that typically present for them including anxiety, depression, panic attacks ,anger, exam stress, self-harm, body image issues , bullying and self-esteem issues. Deirdre believes that each person has the capacity for growth and change, and she helps clients find greater balance, personal insight, and resilience. Her approach is empathic and collaborative, and she uses a blend of different therapeutic approaches. Deirdre also spends time each week volunteering in Living Life, a non-profit agency that provides counselling.

Deirdre is a fully accredited member of IAHIP.

Dympna Nolan BA, MSc CAP, PMCAP, Child & Adolescent Art Psychotherapist

Dympna is a fully qualified Child and Adolescent Art Psychotherapist obtaining her Masters of Science in UCD School of Medicine and a Post Masters in St Vincent’s School of Psychotherapy. Child and Adolescent Art Psychotherapy is deeply embedded in the Psychoanalytic approach. Child and Adolescent Art Psychotherapy also recognises the humanistic and integrative approach in which all young people have the human capacity to achieve a balanced life.

Dympna has an art background and a keen interest in how the unconscious connects with the conscious thought processing through drawing and painting. She was trained on a CAMHS teams in the Lucena Clinic Services, a Child and Adolescent Mental Health service of St. John of God Community in Wicklow. Dympna has also worked as an Art psychotherapist with Tusla, the Children and Family Agency within a Social Care Team. Dympna has extensive knowledge of children aged 4 to 18 years and specifically works with young people who have encountered trauma and attachment difficulties.

Dympna has vast experience in relationship building, both with her child and adolescent clients and with their parents or guardians. She has been working in this area for the last 20 years. Showing a particular interest in the exploration of communication through image making and in emotional expression.

Dympna is fully accredited member of the BACP and IACP, and works under their Code of Ethics.

I offer parenting sessions for parents that are being challenged with their child’s behaviour issues. Whilst also incorporating my special interest in working with neuro divergents.

Therese Reddan Adv Dip, MSc. Counsellor & Psychotherapist

An accredited member of IAHIP, Therese graduated from the Tivoli Institute in 2016 with an Advanced Diploma in Psychotherapy. Therese then went on to study at Carlow IT and obtained a Master of Arts in Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapy (Clinical) Level 9 on NVQ.

Therese has particular interest in the area of grief and loss having completed her master’s Dissertation in the subject. Therese also trained as a drama teacher with the London college of Music and media and she also has over 30 years of experience of working in the health care field with people who have intellectual disabilities, dual diagnosis, autism and mental health problems. Therese is a hardworking, conscientious and caring person, with extensive knowledge of offering support and guidance to clients. She has a proven ability to empathise with individuals whilst retaining an objective and realistic approach to their treatment and therapy.  Throughout her career she has had the opportunity to work with a wide cross section of clients with a wide variety of presenting issues, including but not limited to: grief, relationship and attachment issues, abandonment, eating disorders, depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, sexuality and gender issues, individuals impacted by disability and age related issues.

Therese is optimistic and non-judgmental and works from a humanistic, psychodynamic and integrative model. Working collaboratively with her clients and with a spirit of compassion and expanding awareness. She supports her clients to enter into gentle experiential practices, to expand their own capacities and to discover new insight about themselves, to become more aware of their own strengths and resources and of how the past may be influencing their current thoughts and behaviours. 

JULIE HOGAN Adv. Dip Psychotherapy

Julie is a fully qualified and experienced Psychotherapist/Counsellor. Julie is accredited with IAHIP (Irish Association of Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapy) and trained with the Tivoli Institute in Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin.  

Psychotherapy is for anyone who may need help in a time of crisis or who feels generally their life or current circumstances are not working for them as they would wish it to.  Psychotherapy is an opportunity to get to know yourself, for personal development and a tool for living in a more conscious and informed way.   Throughout her career Julie has worked with a wide range of presenting issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, grief, family issues, personal relationship issues, illness, abuse, sexual issues, trauma and compound/complex trauma, childhood issues. 

Julie’s training and orientation is from the psychodynamic, humanistic and integrative model.   Julie works collaboratively with her clients from a client led perspective with non-judgement and unconditional positive regard.  Julie works empathically creating a safe and honest space for her clients.  Julie also holds a certificate in CBT and uses these practical coping skills and tools from this model where appropriate with Clients.

Julie is a qualified Yoga and Pre Natal-Yoga teacher (“Yoga Alliance” certified), which allows her to work with her clients in a way that recognises and integrates the connection between body and mind, mental and emotional. Julie feels that we may hold some of our past traumas, issues and hurts we have experienced in our lives and that these can become “locked” in our bodies. For this reason, Julie integrates her body work knowledge in her approach to assist clients when appropriate and provide them with tools of self- healing techniques. 

Lesley-Ann Martin Bsc

Lesley-Ann graduated from University College Dublin (UCD) with a degree in Social Science. This academic foundation provided her with a deep understanding of societal structures, human interactions, and social welfare. Upon completing her degree, she embarked on a career in human resources, where she excelled in fostering positive workplace environments and managing employee relations.

Lesley-Ann felt a calling to further her education and delve deeper into the intricacies of the human mind. This led her back to academia, where she pursued studies in Psychotherapy and Counselling with PCI College. Her commitment to continuous learning and personal growth reflects her dedication to providing comprehensive support to individuals seeking guidance and healing. She graduated with a First Class Honours degree from Middlesex University in 2024.

In her practice as a psychotherapist, Lesley-Ann works from an integrative humanistic perspective. She draws on various therapeutic approaches but always grounds her work in a person-centred approach tailored to the suitability of the client. This method ensures that each individual’s unique needs and circumstances are respected and addressed, fostering a therapeutic environment of empathy, understanding, and growth.

Throughout her career, Lesley-Ann has had the opportunity to work with a wide cross-section of clients presenting with a variety of issues, including but not limited to grief, relationships, abandonment, depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, sexuality and gender issues, and challenges faced by individuals impacted by age-related issues. Her extensive experience in these areas allows her to offer informed and compassionate support to each client.

Lesley-Ann’s journey is marked by her unwavering commitment to understanding and improving the human experience. Her diverse career path, enriched by her educational pursuits, underscores her belief in the power of knowledge and compassion. Outside of her professional life, Lesley enjoys engaging in community service, exploring new cultures through travel, and spending quality time with her family.

Lesley-Ann is a Pre-Accredited member of the IACP.

Christine Keegan, BSc (Hons), Graduate Dip, Prof Dip, MIACP

Christine trained as an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist with Turning Point, Dun Laoghaire. She then trained as an Integrative Supervisor with IICP, Killinarden. Christine has many years of experience in both roles. She works from a Person Centred Approach and places great importance on building a safe and supportive relationship with her clients.
Within her Supervisory Role Christine works with both Qualified Therapists and Trainee Therapists. Christine’s Supervisory qualification allows her to work across the healthcare sector. For Christine Supervision is about collaboration, in which the supervisor works with the supervisee to explore their work reflectively, promoting the opportunity for growth and development. The same core conditions would be present in supervision as in therapy: openness, respect, honesty and genuineness.
Within her Psychotherapy role Christine works with adult clients presenting with issues such as anxiety, self esteem, relationship issues, grief and loss.
Christine also has extensive experience in the area of Family Support
Christine provides both face to face and on line therapy/supervision
Christine is an Accredited member of the IACP and works within their code of ethics.

Melanie Doyle BA, BA (Hons)

Melanie is a qualified counsellor and Psychotherapist, with a specialised BA in Adolescent Counselling & Psychotherapy. Melanie also works with individuals and groups in a safe and non-judgemental therapeutic environment. Working from an integrative therapeutic approach utilizing a range of modalities in CBT and Humanistic therapy, Melanie went on to train with the College of Relationship & Sex Therapists UK and has extended her work to relationship counselling with couples. Prior to becoming a therapist Melanie was involved in training and development in the corporate sector and also in community focussed projects with organisations such as Empower Coolmine. Part of this work was to enable adults and young people to complete their education and realise their full potential. She has supported people experiencing mental health distress , trauma, stress and anxiety , low self-esteem, bullying , School exam anxiety , loss and grief and diagnosed mental health disorders. Melanie is passionate about supporting people to reach their full potential to achieve their goals and become an agent of change.

Maeve Burke BA (Hons), MA

Maeve has completed a MA in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, BA Hons in Psychology, followed by two years specific modality training in the School of Psychotherapy in St. Vincent’s University Hospital. She
holds full accreditation with the Association of Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy in Ireland (APPI) under the umbrella of the Irish Council of Psychotherapy (ICP).

Maeve has clinical experience in a variety of settings including the National Maternity Hospital, the Tower Probation Programme, Kilbarrack Coast Community Programme, Naas Child and Family Programme, suicide prevention services and student counselling services in third level institutions. She also lectures at third level.

In her work she adopts a singular approach, tailoring each therapy to suit the individual needs of each person. She offers a space which facilitates you to hear the things you may not be aware of but influence
your actions, decisions and feelings. This provides an opportunity for new insights, to re-shape how you approach challenges and to identify what you really want to do with the issues or difficulties you face in
your life.

Maeve has a particular interest working with young people, along with their parents. Her experience includes working with those affected by a variety of issues and symptoms including anxiety, stress, depression, chronic illness, life transition difficulties, confidence, identity, difficulties in the social bond, self-esteem, bereavement, addiction, relationship issues, anger, questions of gender and sexuality.
 

Elizabeth Garvey, BA (Hons)

Courage lies at the core of the therapeutic journey. I admire the clients I have worked with for having stepped beyond where they were and in coming to therapy, exploring for themselves, another way of being in the world. Jung wrote that there is something that lies deep in our nature that we understand, and I believe that Carl Rogers addressed this when he said, “It is the client who knows what hurts, what directions to go, what problems are crucial, what experiences have been deeply buried.”

I use a humanistic, psychodynamic and integrative approach. Providing a counselling and therapeutic service by inviting people to develop their awareness as to what prevents them from unfolding their true nature. Thus, enabling a person to take responsibility for what is happening in their life now by overcoming fear, in order to imagine what is possible.

My experiences have led to developing the strong belief that each person has the capacity to be kind, that we each act out of either a place of love or a place of fear, and I also believe that each person can consciously choose to act for good in their own lives and in the lives of others.

I hold a B.A. Hons in Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy from DBS, Diploma in Psychology, Diploma in Spirituality and a Montessori Diploma in Education. I have practiced as a psychotherapist at Living Life Counselling in Bray. I am a fully accredited  member of IACP (Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and work under their code of ethics.

Alison Keenan, BA (Hons)

Alison holds a B.A. Honours Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy from the University of Warwick. She is a registered member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) working under their code of ethics.

She has practiced as a psychotherapist with a UK based LGTBQ+ charity and also within NHS settings, focusing on anxiety and depression. More recently, Alison has held a dual role practicing as a psychotherapist and clinical associate at Living Life Counselling. She has a particular interest in gender diversity, low self esteem and trauma.

She works in a person-centred way and believes in the power of a non-judgemental environment to facilitate change and deepen personal awareness.

Bernie McGrane Bsc, MA, MIACP

Cert in Behavioural Therapy Prof. Dip. Counselling. BSc Psychotherapy. M.A. in Integrative Psychotherapy. M.A. in Supervision. MIACP, SIACP.

As a humanistic and integrative psychotherapist, Bernie has a vast range of experience that encompasses over 20 years working in private practice and within the addiction services. Bernie counsels people recovering from addiction and also family members affected by addiction.

She also works in general practice with a broad range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, anger management, low self-esteem, bereavement, sexuality, sexual abuse, intimacy, relationship difficulties, work-related issues, attachment and family dynamics / breakdown.

Bernie has a certificate in Behavioral Therapy from William Glasser Ireland, a professional diploma in Counselling from Trinity College Dublin and a BSc (hon) in Psychotherapy with Middlesex University. She has expanded her studies with a M.A. in Integrative Psychotherapy from Dublin Business School. Bernie is also an accredited supervisor and was awarded an M.A. in Supervision by Dublin City University.

Edel O’Leary BA MA MIACP

I am an experienced and accredited (IACP) adult counsellor and psychotherapist, who holds a Masters Degree in Integrated Child and Adolescent Counselling and Psychotherapy. I work both short-term and long-term with clients of different gender, age groups and different socioeconomic backgrounds.
I also work with adults and young people with Intellectual Disabilities and or Neurodiversity.

Through my work with Living Life (Bray) and Village Counselling Services (Tallaght), I have experience working with adults, adolescents and children who presented with a wide range of issues. These include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, self-harm, grief, living with a long-term illness and managing a family breakdown.

I work with the individuality of each client to give them the time and space to explore their needs and work collaboratively to bring about the changes that may be needed to help them cope with their present issues or concerns.

My therapeutic approach is Humanistic, Integrative and Person-centred. If required I use skills from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Reality Therapy/ Choice Theory (RT/CT).
When appropriate I integrate a creative approach and work through the use of creative media and expression and play. If needed I also include developmentally informed CBT, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and Sequentially Planned Integrated Counselling for Children (SPICC Model) to work with a client’s needs.

Claire Harrington BEd, MSc. PMCAPTP

Claire works one to one with children and adolescents.
The approach is gentle and child led. The image the young person creates becomes the communication. Claire works with unconscious processes bringing them to consciousness, thus helping the young person to move forward. Claire provides a space where the young person feels safe to express themselves.

Jordane Salmon, Clinical Supervisor, MA, Dip

Jordane is a Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist with a specialisation in Play Therapy, and Clinical Supervisor. Jordane is fully accredited with the Irish Association of Play Therapy and Psychotherapy (IAPTP).

Jordane has extensive experience and knowledge in complex trauma and attachment. Jordane has experience with both individual and group play therapy and has worked in both private practice and as part of multidisciplinary teams since 2016. Jordane works with clients aged 3 – 18 years.

Leigh Curran MA, H Dip, Counsellor & Psychotherapist

Leigh is a pre-accredited and fully qualified humanistic and integrative psychotherapist, holding an MA in Psychotherapy, graduating with 1st Class Honours, and a Higher Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy from Dublin Business School.

Leigh provides a calm presence for self discovery and personal growth placing emphasis on relational dynamics and the intersubjective space.