Simon Callan – Founder & Clinician
Hello! My name is Simon Callan. I am an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist and the founder of this practice. The practice operates in Gorey, Co. Wexford. I have worked in Gorey for the last few years, with Talk to Tom Suicide Prevention Centre. My attitude towards life is optimistic, placing central importance on the optimal development of human potential.
My Qualifications and Memberships
I hold the following qualifications: BA (Hons) in Psychology from Dublin Business School, an MSc in Psychological Science from University of Limerick and an MSc in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy from Turning Point Institute (accredited via University College Cork). I also hold a certificate in Mindfulness from the Irish Mindfulness Institute.
I am an Accredited Member of the Irish Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) and I abide by their Code of Ethics & Practice.
How I Practice
There are many different approaches to therapy, and it is important to give you some information on this for two reasons. Firstly, sometimes people come to therapy looking for a very specific therapeutic approach, such as psychoanalysis. If this was the case, you may be best served by seeking a specifically trained psychoanalyst. The second reason I mention the different approaches to therapy is that different approaches to therapy may work better for different people.
My approach to therapy is humanistic and integrative. This means that I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches and techniques such as: client-centred, existential, psychodynamic, psychosynthesis, mindfulness, amongst others. I do not work from one of these approaches in isolation. Instead, I blend all of my training into how I practice. I tailor how I work to best suit you as an individual. However, I believe the most important part of our work together is the professional relationship that is formed between us.
I want you to feel comfortable and safe talking to me openly and honestly about your life. If you do not feel comfortable with me, then the therapeutic work cannot progress. You have to feel safe and comfortable for the process to help you and, even if it is not with this service, it is important that we find you a therapist that you will feel comfortable working with. This process is all about what works best for you.
Claire Rountree – Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist
I joined Your First Step in 2022, having previously worked with Living Life and Kilcoole Counselling centres. As an integrative therapist, I am trained in a range of therapy styles. For some, an impartial listening ear is all they require, while other clients desire more active cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or solution focused interventions. Regardless of the approach, the relational space of trust and safety that we build over time sits at the heart of the process. I work with adult clients, both individuals and couples.
My Qualifications and Memberships
Having completed my training in 2018, I am a pre-accredited member of the Irish Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (IACP). I hold a counselling diploma from PCI College in Dublin, and a HDip in Psychology from Dublin Business School. I have completed additional certifications in relationship counselling, cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), solution focussed brief therapy, therapeutic use of mindfulness, and trauma-oriented therapies.
