Practical information
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers about attending online counselling with DCCS.
How will DCCS communicate with me?
Counselling sessions are delivered securely online using Zoom, with a private meeting link provided before each appointment. No Zoom account is required to attend most appointments. Telephone, email and WhatsApp Business may be used for enquiries, scheduling, confirmations and other administrative communication. Therapeutic counselling is not provided by WhatsApp message or text.
How much does counselling cost?
Individual Counselling €100 per 50-minute session Young People, Ages 16–17 €100 per 50-minute session Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) €100 per 50-minute session Couples Counselling €130 per 50-minute session Corporate Psychological Services are individually priced according to organisational requirements.
International clients: All fees are charged in euro (€). Your bank or card provider will convert the payment into your local currency at the applicable exchange rate.
Who do you work with?
DCCS supports eligible adults in Ireland, including Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom, Australia and selected Canadian provinces. Young people aged 16 and 17 may be accepted following an individual assessment of suitability, consent and safeguarding arrangements.
Do you provide counselling for young people aged 16 and 17?
Young people aged 16 and 17 may be accepted following an individual assessment of suitability, consent and safeguarding arrangements. Where appropriate, an initial parent or guardian consultation may form part of the assessment process. Appointments begin with an enquiry rather than direct online booking.
Do young people aged 16 or 17 need parental or guardian consent?
The appropriate arrangements depend on the young person’s circumstances, capacity, presenting needs and safeguarding considerations. Parental or guardian involvement will be considered and discussed before counselling begins. DCCS does not apply a single automatic rule to every case.
Is counselling confidential for someone under 18?
Counselling is treated confidentially, but confidentiality has limits. Relevant information may need to be shared where there is a serious concern about the young person’s safety or welfare or where disclosure is required by law or professional responsibility. These limits will be explained before counselling begins.
Do you provide relationship and couples counselling?
Yes. DCCS provides Relationship & Couples Counselling for couples and individuals. An initial consultation allows us to understand your circumstances and discuss the most appropriate counselling approach before ongoing sessions begin.
Is online counselling confidential?
Yes, subject to explained limits relating to serious safety concerns, safeguarding and legal requirements.
How does online counselling work?
After your appointment is confirmed, DCCS provides the secure information and video details you need. You attend from a private location using a suitable device and reliable internet connection.
Which online platform is used?

Counselling sessions are delivered securely using Zoom. A private meeting link and clear joining instructions will be sent before each appointment. No Zoom account is required to attend most appointments.
Is online counselling suitable for everyone?
Not always. Suitability is considered before counselling begins and kept under review. Where online work is not appropriate, DCCS will discuss other options where possible.
What happens in the first session?
We discuss what is happening, your priorities and whether this service is appropriate.
How long is each session?
Normally 50 minutes.
What is the cancellation policy?
Please provide at least 24 hours’ notice. Appointments cancelled with less notice may be charged at the full session fee.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies. Short term or ongoing work can be agreed and reviewed.
Can my employer access information?
No clinical information is shared routinely. Corporate reporting is anonymised unless disclosure is legally or clinically required.
Can I claim through my health insurance?
Some private health insurance providers may contribute towards the cost of counselling or psychotherapy. Cover varies between insurers, policies and countries. Please check directly with your insurer before commencing counselling. Where relevant, Irish clients may also check their policy with Vhi Healthcare, Laya Healthcare or Irish Life Health.
Is this an emergency service?
No. DCCS is not an emergency or crisis service. If you require immediate help, contact the emergency services or an appropriate local crisis service in your current physical location.
