Meet Rachel

Hi, I'm Rachel, a counsellor at Ascend Counselling.

I believe that having a space where you feel listened to and understood can make a real difference when navigating life's challenges.

How We’ll Work Together

I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to counselling because no two people experience life in exactly the same way. In our sessions, I draw on evidence-based therapeutic methods, tailoring our work to what you need:

• Person-Centered Therapy: I focus on creating a safe, empathetic relationship where you feel genuinely heard and accepted without any judgment.

• Choice Theory: Together, we’ll explore the areas of life where you feel stuck, helping you regain a sense of personal agency, clarity, and control over your choices.

• Practical Mindfulness: I weave in grounding, practical techniques to help quiet an overthinking mind and handle anxiety when it feels overwhelming in daily life.

How I Can Support You

While every client’s story is unique, I frequently work with adults navigating a range of different issues including:

• Weight, Body Image & Bariatric Support: The emotional side of weight is often overlooked. I provide a compassionate, judgment-free space to explore your relationship with food, body image, and self-worth, whether you are working through emotional eating, navigating life before or after bariatric surgery, or processing the physical and psychological shifts that come with GLP-1 medications (such as Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro)

• Anxiety & Overthinking: Constant worry, panic, social anxiety, or feeling perpetually on edge.

• Burnout & Work Stress: Overwhelm, perfectionism, setting healthy boundaries, and managing workplace exhaustion.

• Relationship & Life Transitions: Boundary challenges, breakup recovery, career changes, or navigating major shifts in your identity and health.

• Low Self-Esteem & Inner Criticism: Quieting self-doubt, building genuine self-compassion, and feeling grounded in who you are

A Quick Note: You don't need a formal diagnosis or a crisis to start therapy. If something feels heavy, confusing, or overwhelming in your life right now, that is more than enough reason to reach out.

What to Expect in Our First Session

Taking the first step into therapy can feel daunting; I’ve been there. A first session often brings hope and apprehension: you may wonder if you'll be judged, where to begin, or whether talking can help.

As a counsellor, I aim to ease those fears. Therapy isn’t about fixing you; you’re not broken. It’s a calm, collaborative space to make sense of what you're carrying and regain your footing.

We’ll go at your pace, discuss what brought you here and what you hope to gain, and answer your questions. Think of it as an open conversation to get to know each other and explore a gentle path forward.

Flexible Therapy That Fits Your Life

Whether you prefer meeting in person or working together online, I offer flexible options tailored to your routine:

• In-Person Counselling in Dublin: A quiet, private setting where you can step away from daily distractions.

• Online Therapy Across Ireland: Secure, convenient video sessions from the comfort and privacy of your own home.

• Flexible Scheduling: Evening and weekend appointments are available so you don't have to stress about taking time off work.

Let’s See If We’re a Good Fit

Choosing a therapist is a personal decision, and feeling comfortable with the person you choose is what makes therapy work.

To help you decide without any pressure, I offer a free, no-obligation 10-minute phone or video consultation. It’s simply a brief chat for us to connect, talk through what you’re looking for, and see if working together feels right for you.