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 & Psychotherapy €100 per 50 minute session Parent / Teen Consultation €100 per 50 minute consultation Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) €100 per 50 minute session Couples / Relationship Counselling €120 per 50 minute session Corporate & Workplace Wellbeing support is 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 works primarily with adults across Ireland, the UK and internationally, subject to clinical suitability and applicable professional requirements. Support may also be available for young people aged 16 and 17 following an initial assessment.
How does counselling for young people aged 16 and 17 work?
Counselling for young people aged 16 and 17 begins with an assessment of suitability, consent and safeguarding needs. Parent or guardian involvement will be considered according to the young person’s circumstances and discussed before counselling begins. Counselling is confidential within normal professional and safeguarding limits, which will be explained before counselling begins.
Do you provide relationship and couples counselling?
Yes. DCCS provides Couples / Relationship 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 sends a private Zoom link and joining instructions. No Zoom account is required for most appointments. You attend from a private location using a suitable device and reliable internet connection. If a session is interrupted, DCCS will make reasonable efforts to reconnect and, where appropriate, may continue by telephone or another agreed method. Clients are responsible for their own device, internet connection and private environment.
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 and how long does it last?
The first session provides an opportunity to discuss your concerns, needs and goals and consider the appropriate way forward. Standard appointments are 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?
There is no fixed number of sessions. This will depend on your individual needs, goals and progress.
Can my employer access information?
DCCS does not provide employers with counselling content, clinical information or other identifiable information about a client. Any organisational reporting is limited to aggregated or anonymised information where agreed.
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 Level Health 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.