By Gráinne Noone, IACP-accredited psychotherapist
Choosing to begin counselling or psychotherapy can feel like a big step. You may be reaching out at a difficult or vulnerable time, so it is important to feel confident that the person you choose has the right qualifications, experience and professional support behind them.
That is why I am very proud to share that I am now an accredited member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP).
Becoming accredited is a rigorous process — and rightly so. It reflects years of education, supervised clinical work, personal therapy, ongoing supervision and professional development.
More importantly, it provides reassurance to my clients that my work is guided by recognised professional and ethical standards.
What does IACP accreditation mean?
The IACP has been connecting the Irish public with accredited counsellors and psychotherapists for more than 40 years.
It sets professional standards for the education, training, experience and personal development required to become an accredited therapist. Its members must also follow a professional code of ethics and continue developing their knowledge and skills throughout their careers.
For clients, this provides reassurance that an accredited therapist:
- Has completed recognised professional training
- Has substantial experience working with clients
- Attends regular clinical supervision
- Has undertaken their own personal therapy
- Is committed to ongoing professional development
- Is accountable to a recognised professional body
Accreditation does not automatically tell you whether a therapist is the right fit for you. Feeling heard, respected and comfortable with your therapist is also incredibly important. However, it does provide a trusted starting point when deciding who to work with.
You have the right to ask questions
Asking a counsellor or psychotherapist about their qualifications, experience and accreditation is absolutely your right.
You are placing a great deal of trust in the person you choose, and you should feel able to ask:
- What qualifications do you have?
- Which professional body are you accredited with?
- Do you attend regular supervision?
- Have you worked with concerns similar to mine?
- What type of therapy do you offer?
A professional therapist should be comfortable answering these questions.
Accreditation also means that there is an independent professional body you can contact if you have a concern or wish to make a complaint. This helps protect both the client and the therapist and ensures that recognised ethical standards are followed.
What this milestone means to me
Alongside my professional training, I have completed more than 120 hours of personal therapy and thousands of hours of study, clinical work and supervision.
Becoming an accredited psychotherapist feels like an important recognition of that work. It also reflects my ongoing commitment to providing clients with a safe, compassionate and professional space.
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stress and burnout, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, bereavement, trauma and significant life changes.
Sessions are available in person in Dublin and online. If you are considering counselling or psychotherapy and would like to ask a question or arrange an initial conversation, please feel welcome to contact BetterCare or book a session here.
