Welcome

Welcome to Maria O Sullivan Counselling and Psychotherapy. Thank you for taking the time to visit my page.

I don't believe there is one "right" way to do therapy because there is no one "right" way to be human. Every person who walks through my door brings a unique story, shaped by their relationships, experiences and the life they've lived. Even people facing the same challenge can experience it very differently. My role isn't to fit you into a particular approach, but to work alongside you with curiosity and compassion, discovering together what feels most helpful. A trusting therapeutic relationship is at the heart of that process, creating a space where you can feel safe enough to explore, reflect and grow.

Before training as a therapist, I spent years working with people across customer service, hospitality, and as a youth diversion worker — supporting adolescents, their parents, and their families. Those experiences gave me a deep appreciation for the complexity of people's lives and a genuine passion for helping others to grow and develop.

I have experienced a range of challenges myself — from big, life-changing ones to the smaller, everyday transitions that can quietly take their toll. That lived experience shapes how I show up in the room: with real understanding, not just professional knowledge.

I do hope you reach out to me in your search for support. We can arrange a short call to discuss how we might work together. You can book a Free 30 Minute Consultation Phonecall or you can reach out to me on the contact me page.

How I work

My approach is relational, grounded, and engaged.

I take an active, collaborative role in therapy. I will think with you, reflect with you, and, where it feels helpful, gently challenge you with care and compassion.

Therapy is not simply about talking through problems. It is about understanding how you experience yourself, your relationships, and the world around you. Together, we can explore patterns, build on your strengths, and work towards the changes that feel meaningful to you.

My work is grounded in Pluralistic Psychotherapy and draws from Person-Centred and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). I am also trauma-informed, somatically informed, and draw on attachment-based perspectives. Together, we can explore the patterns that show up in your relationships, your emotions, and your body—not just at a surface level, but in a way that supports deeper understanding and meaningful, lasting change.

Every person brings their own unique experiences, strengths, and hopes for therapy. Rather than applying a single approach, I work collaboratively with you to find the way of working that best meets your needs and goals.

You don’t need to arrive with the right words.
Sometimes the work begins simply by finding a way to understand what has been difficult to put into words.

Professional Training & Ongoing Development

  • I hold an MSc in Pluralistic Counselling and Psychotherapy from the Institute of Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy (IICP), Dublin, and a Higher Certificate in Counselling Skills from Munster Technological University (MTU).

    Before training as a psychotherapist, I completed an LL.M. in Criminal Justice at University College Cork (UCC) and a B.A. (Hons) in Criminal Justice Studies. My background in youth work, advocacy, and community support continues to inform my understanding of the many challenges people can face throughout their lives.

    Alongside my core training, I have completed additional professional development with the Perinatal Mental Health Institute, reflecting my interest in supporting parents during pregnancy, the postnatal period, and the emotional transition into parenthood.

    I am also the creator of The Parent Within, a Reflective Parenting Programme launching in Autumn 2026. The programme draws on attachment theory, trauma-informed practice, and somatic awareness to support parents in exploring re-parenting, self-regulation, co-regulation, and repair. I look forward to sharing more about the programme soon.

    I am a Pre-Accredited Member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) and work in accordance with the IACP Code of Ethics. I also engage in regular clinical supervision and ongoing professional development to support safe, ethical, and effective practice.

A little about me…

Aside from my training and experience as a therapist, I am a mother and a wife who has a great love for nature, hiking and running. I also love a good Netflix series and a good crime podcast!