Finding the right psychologist in Ireland can feel overwhelming, particularly when you are already struggling. There is genuine variation in training, expertise and approach among practitioners who use similar titles, and understanding the landscape helps you make a confident, informed choice. Caroline Goldsmith at the Irish Resilience Clinic is asked these questions regularly, and this guide answers the most important ones.
Understanding the Titles: Psychologist, Psychotherapist, Counsellor
In Ireland, ‘psychologist’ is becoming a protected title under CORU, the Health and Social Care Professionals Council, though the registration process is still being phased in. Clinical psychologists, counselling psychologists and educational psychologists typically hold doctorate-level training and are registered with the Psychological Society of Ireland. They can conduct psychological assessments, formulate complex presentations and provide evidence-based treatments.
Psychotherapists and counsellors have different, typically shorter training pathways and generally do not conduct formal psychological assessments. The distinction matters most when assessment, complex diagnosis or evidence-based protocols are needed.
How to Verify Registration in Ireland
Caroline Goldsmith at the Irish Resilience Clinic recommends checking the PSI register at psychologicalsociety.ie before engaging any psychologist. A registered member will have completed accredited training, adhere to a code of ethics and carry professional indemnity insurance. CORU registration can be checked at coru.ie.
What to Ask in the First Call
Before booking, ask: Are you registered with PSI or CORU? Do you have specific experience with my presenting difficulty? What therapeutic approach do you use and what does the evidence say about it? Approximately how many sessions might be involved? What is your fee and cancellation policy? A confident psychologist will welcome these questions. Caroline Goldsmith Psychologist at the Irish Resilience Clinic always offers a brief initial call to answer them before any commitment is made.
Fees and Health Insurance
Private psychology sessions in Ireland typically cost between €90 and €150 per hour. Most major Irish health insurers, including VHI, Irish Life Health and Laya Healthcare, partially reimburse sessions with a chartered psychologist. Check your specific policy in advance, as reimbursement rates and annual limits vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a GP referral to see a psychologist in Ireland? No. Self-referral is standard at the Irish Resilience Clinic and with most private practitioners.
What is the difference between a clinical psychologist and a psychotherapist? Clinical psychologists hold doctorate-level clinical training and can conduct formal assessments. Psychotherapists generally cannot.
What if I do not feel a connection with my psychologist? Raise it directly. A good psychologist, including Caroline Goldsmith, welcomes this conversation and will either adjust or discuss onward referral.
Contact the Irish Resilience Clinic
Caroline Goldsmith, Registered Psychologist, Irish Resilience Clinic. 4 Harcourt Street, Dublin. Call +353 87 406 2203 or email [email protected].