Simon Callan – Founder & Clinician
Hello! My name is Simon Callan. I am an Integrative Counsellor & Psychotherapist and the founder of this practice. The practice operates in Gorey, Co. Wexford. I started working in Gorey for Talk to Tom Suicide Prevention Centre, before opening ‘Your First Step Counselling & Psychotherapy’ in 2019. 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).
I am a Graduate Member of the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI).
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.
Dewi Williams – Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist
My name is Dewi. I am originally from Wales and have lived in the Gorey area for the last 30 years. I have worked as a Gardener and Horticultural therapist alongside adults with support needs for many years, helping people improve their physical and mental health and developing their overall sense of well-being. I have previously worked with Living Life Centre in Arklow, and have been with Your First Step Counselling since 2024.
My Qualifications and Memberships
I am an Accredited Member of the Irish Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (IACP) and also a member of Mercury-UKAACP. I hold a BSc (Hons) in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy from IICP and have completed additional certifications in Horticultural Therapy, Professional Development and Leadership, Mental Health training-focussing on, Psychological crises, Therapeutic response, and Personal development.
Main Approaches:
My therapeutic approach to counselling and psychotherapy is integrative (bringing different approaches together); however, I believe the most important factor is a good working relationship between counsellor and client. The frameworks I most use are Person Centred, Humanistic, Choice Theory/Reality Therapy, Pluralism and Evidence Based Practice & Mindfulness.
Common Areas of Potential Focus:
General Counselling, Anxiety, Depression, Emotional and Relational Difficulties, Family Difficulties, Mental Health, Personal Development and Identity, Self-esteem/self-confidence, Childhood Experiences, Stress, Trauma, Panic, Bereavement and Grief.
