Before you attend
First contact
You can get in touch by phone or email to ask about availability, timing, and whether the support feels suitable for you.
Marie Harding Counselling Service
How counselling works
Counselling should feel clear and manageable. This page explains what happens before the first session, what sessions are like, and the practical details people often want to know.
You do not need to know exactly what to say before you make contact. A few lines, or a simple phone call to ask about availability, is enough to begin.
The first appointment
A calm starting point
The first session is a chance to talk through what has brought you in, what you need, and how support may begin.
Ongoing sessions
Clear and practical
Sessions can stay focused on what matters most to you, with space to review what is helping and what needs attention next.
Practical details
No hidden uncertainty
You can ask about format, timing, cancellations, and any practical concern before you commit to ongoing work.
What happens before the first session
When you get in touch, the first step is usually a short conversation about what kind of support you are looking for, what times may suit, and whether the service feels like the right fit.
You are welcome to keep that first contact simple. You do not need to tell your full story straight away.
What the first session is like
The first session is a starting point rather than a test. We talk about what has brought you in, what feels most important right now, and what you hope counselling may provide.
Some people arrive knowing exactly what they want to discuss. Others feel unsure or find it hard to put things into words at first. Both are completely normal.
Confidentiality and its limits
Confidentiality is of the utmost importance to me when working with clients. If there are any legal or safety-related limits to confidentiality, these are explained clearly at the start so you know where you stand.
In-person and online options
In-person sessions are available in Kanturk, Co. Cork. If online appointments would suit you better, please ask when you get in touch.
How often sessions may happen
Session timing can be discussed together. Some people prefer regular appointments, while others need more space between sessions. What matters is choosing a rhythm that feels realistic and supportive.
Cancellations and practical expectations
If you need to cancel or rearrange, please give as much notice as possible. Practical details, including cancellations, can be discussed when you make contact, and anything unclear can be discussed before booking.
Payments are discussed after an initial consultation by phone or email.
Clients under 16 need a parent or guardian's permission before counselling can begin.
If you are nervous about attending
Many people feel uneasy before a first session, especially if counselling is new to them. You are not expected to say everything perfectly, and there is no pressure to cover everything at once.
The aim is to create a calm space where it feels easier to begin.
Emergency care
This practice is not an emergency or crisis service. If you need urgent help, call 112 or 999. Samaritans freephone 116 123.
A gentle first step
If a shorter callback request would feel easier, you can use that instead
Some people prefer to leave their contact details first and keep the rest for a phone call or first session.
Please do not include highly sensitive details in this form.
Details from this form are sent to email for the purpose of getting back to you and are not stored in a website database.
Frequently asked questions
Practical questions, answered clearly
Do I need a referral?
No referral is required. You can contact Marie directly by phone, email, or the appointment form.
How long is a session?
Sessions are usually around 50 minutes. If you need a different format, please ask.
Do you offer online appointments?
In-person sessions are available in Kanturk, Co. Cork. If online appointments would suit you better, please ask when you get in touch.
Is what I say confidential?
Confidentiality is taken very seriously. Any limits are explained clearly at the start so you know where you stand.
Do you work with teenagers?
Support for children and young people is available. Please ask about age suitability and what kind of support may be most appropriate.
What if I feel nervous about the first session?
That is very common. You are not expected to explain everything at once. The first session is simply a starting point.
How do cancellations work?
Please give as much notice as possible if you need to cancel or move an appointment. Full practical details are on the Fees and cancellations page.
Support resources
Need urgent or additional support?
If you need urgent help, or if you would find additional support useful alongside counselling, these official services may help.
Urgent help
Additional support
The resources page includes official Irish and Cork-relevant supports for young people, bereavement, peer support, family information, and general mental health guidance.