Aisling Ryan

About Aisling Ryan

I am currently a trainee psychotherapist specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and am completing my MA in Counselling and Psychotherapy with CBT modalities. CBT is a structured, goal-oriented form of psychotherapy that focuses on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. It helps individuals identify how negative thought patterns can lead to psychological distress and aims to change those patterns to improve mental wellbeing. The therapy is evidence-based and has been shown to be effective in treating various mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders.

My educational background includes a BA in Psychology with Digital Communications and Culture Studies, followed by an MA in Psychology. I also worked as a Research Assistant at the University of Limerick’s Centre for Social Issues Research, where I conducted research with primary school-aged children. This experience gave me a deeper understanding of the psychological and social factors affecting children and families. Additionally, I was part of the VIP-R Social Psychology labs at the university, which allowed me to explore and contribute to research on social issues affecting society today.

These experiences have significantly influenced my approach to therapy, as I am passionate about understanding and addressing societal challenges that impact individual and community wellbeing. I am a Graduate member of the Psychological Society of Ireland (Membership No: M15370) and a Student member of the Association of Professional Counsellors and Psychotherapists in Ireland (Membership No: MBR11669). These affiliations allow me to stay up to date with the latest developments in psychotherapy and to be part of a supportive professional network. In addition to my academic and research experience, I work with young people in an educational setting, teaching at Youth Reach and delivering a Wellbeing Programme. This role has given me invaluable insight into the mental health and educational challenges young people face today. It has also allowed me to cultivate empathy and a deeper understanding of the complex issues that can affect young people, their families, and their communities. By working with a diverse group of young people, I have learned how important it is to offer practical, evidence-based interventions that are both compassionate and effective. In my practice, I offer individually tailored CBT interventions based on the unique needs of each client.

I work with a range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, panic, social phobia, low self-esteem, stress management, and more. My approach is collaborative—together, we will explore the issues that are contributing to your distress and identify the cognitive and behavioural patterns that may be holding you back from living a fulfilling life. My goal is to empower you with the tools and techniques necessary to make meaningful changes in your life. In all my work, I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgemental space where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings, with the aim of improving their mental health and achieving their personal goals. My aim is to help you understand your unique challenges and provide the support you need to overcome them in a way that aligns with your values and aspirations.

Work With Children

In addition to her work with adults, Aisling is a trained child counsellor, having completed specialised training with Private Therapy Clinic Ireland Limited to work therapeutically with children including being trained as a neurodiversity practitioner who can carry out autism assessments as part of a multidisciplinary team. She supports young clients facing a range of emotional and behavioural challenges, including anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, and various other behavioural difficulties. Aisling’s approach is tailored to meet each child’s unique developmental needs, helping them to better understand their emotions, build resilience, and develop positive coping strategies. As a parent herself, Aisling’s personal experience of raising children has greatly expanded her understanding and deepened her empathy for the challenges parents face. Her journey has inspired and motivated her to support other parents who are navigating the complexities of raising a child with emotional, behavioural, or neurodevelopmental needs. She is supervised by an experienced neurodiversity practitioner and a psychotherapist with extensive expertise in working with children, ensuring that her practice is grounded in expert knowledge and compassionate care. Aisling is passionate about providing a safe, supportive space where both children and their families can feel understood, empowered, and equipped to thrive.