I’m Denise! I am a Child & Adolescent Counsellor.
I’m originally from Ireland and have been living and working in Dubai for the past 10 years, supporting children, adolescents and families across educational and therapeutic settings. Alongside my clinical work, I have led counselling, wellbeing and safeguarding services within international schools, and I have also worked therapeutically with adults experiencing a range of emotional and psychological difficulties.
What qualifications do you have?
I hold a BA (Hons) in Applied Social Studies from Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), Ireland, and an MSc in Pluralistic Counselling and Psychotherapy from the Irish Institute of Counselling and Psychotherapy (IICP).
I am a licensed Social Counsellor with the Community Development Authority (CDA) in the UAE, an Accredited Member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) and have completed additional training in EMDR for Adults and Children, CBT, REBT, ACT and trauma-informed practice.
What kind of difficulties do you help with?
I have supported children and adolescents with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, school anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism, trauma, grief, behavioural challenges and life transitions. I have a particular interest in supporting young people living with chronic health conditions and helping families navigate the emotional impact these can have.
My approach is warm, collaborative and integrative. I believe every individual is unique, so I tailor therapy to each person’s needs, drawing on Person-Centred Therapy, CBT, ACT, EMDR and trauma-informed practice to help them achieve meaningful and lasting change.
Above all, my aim is to provide a compassionate and non-judgemental space where children, young people and their families feel safe, heard and empowered.
What are your interests outside of psychology?
Alongside my clinical work, I also enjoy lecturing and supporting the development of future counsellors while continuing to expand my own knowledge and skills through ongoing professional development.