AchieveNI

AchieveNI is a professional Counselling and Training Agency. We provide services to improve mental h

We are a professional agency providing counselling; and training services to schools, agencies, communities, professional and statutory bodies across the UK, Ireland and Internationally

We provide one-to-one Counselling to children, young people and adults as well as critical incident intervention. Our accredited counsellors specialise in working with survivors of sexual abuse. Our senior staff provide supervision for counsellors and psychotherapists across a range of therapeutic approaches. AchieveNI designs and delivers a wide range of programmes that address current concerns in Community, Post-Primary Schools and Primary Schools settings. All our training courses are researched, delivered and evaluated to the highest possible standards. Feedback from participants highlights the quality of material, the style and chemistry of presenters, and the interactive learning and fun throughout the group process. AchieveNI prides itself in modelling an attitude of respect and inclusively for all participants.

31/08/2025

Safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults training for pastoral leadership and volunteers at Rehoboth Church Belfast yesterday 🙏

21/05/2025

Outstanding The Belfast Boys' Model School 🙏❤️

18/04/2025

Good Friday commemorates Jesus Christ’s crucifixion, a pivotal event in Christianity. It symbolizes divine love, as Jesus willingly suffered to redeem humanity from sin.

Christians observe this day with prayer, fasting, and church services, reflecting on His sacrifice. The somber atmosphere underscores the gravity of His death, yet it also carries hope—

His suffering paves the way for resurrection and eternal life.

The cross, central to Good Friday, represents both suffering and salvation. It reminds believers of forgiveness, mercy, and God’s boundless grace.

Though a day of mourning, it ultimately points to the triumph of love over death, preparing hearts for Easter’s joy.

“All Glory be to the Lord most High”

16/04/2025

Drug addiction is a growing crisis in Northern Ireland, damaging health, families, and communities.

The use of illegal drugs, prescription medication misuse, and alcohol dependency contribute to rising overdose deaths, mental health issues, and crime.

In 2022, Northern Ireland recorded its highest number of drug-related deaths, with opioids like he**in and synthetic drugs such as fentanyl posing severe risks.

Addiction strains healthcare services and increases homelessness, unemployment, and domestic violence.

Young people are particularly vulnerable, with cannabis and stimulant misuse affecting education and future prospects.

Criminal gangs exploit addiction, fueling violence and exploitation.

Efforts like addiction treatment programs, mental health support, and community education are vital.

Strengthening enforcement against drug trafficking while offering rehabilitation can help reduce harm.

Raising awareness and promoting healthy lifestyles are key to combating this devastating issue in Northern Ireland.

15/04/2025

School counselling in Northern Ireland provides vital mental health support to students, addressing issues like anxiety, bullying, and academic stress.

Delivered through schools and external agencies, these services aim to promote emotional well-being and resilience. AchieveNI counselling programmes, ensure trained professionals offer confidential, child-centred support.

Post-pandemic demand has increased, highlighting gaps in funding and accessibility, particularly in disadvantaged areas.

Initiatives like *Counselling in Schools* help, but long waiting lists remain a challenge.

Advocacy continues for better resources and early intervention to support young people’s mental health effectively across Northern Ireland’s education system.

AchieveNI founded by senior psychotherapist Mandy McDermott is a private counselling and training agency providing support services for nearly 20 years.

“Over the past 20 years, disadvantaged areas in Belfast, particularly in North and West Belfast, have faced persistent poverty, unemployment, and educational inequality. Sectarian divisions, paramilitary influence, and mental health crises remain challenges. Regeneration efforts have been slow, with high deprivation levels exacerbating crime and addiction issues, leaving communities struggling for sustainable development.”
Mandy McDermott MBACP reg. accred.

14/04/2025

Trusting in God strengthens mental health by providing comfort, purpose, and unshakable hope.

Believing in divine love and guidance reduces anxiety, as we release burdens through prayer and surrender.

Regular worship and scripture study renew the mind, replacing negative thoughts with truth and gratitude.

God's promise of peace (Philippians 4:7) anchors the soul during storms, while Christian fellowship offers support. Obedience to God's Word brings order to chaos, and serving others shifts focus from self to meaningful purpose.

By relying on God's strength, not our own, we develop resilience, joy, and the quiet confidence of being eternally held.

01/04/2025

🥰🥰

03/01/2025

Good morning!

I love this quote by C.S.Lewis ❤️.

It is so true, physical pain is something we usually can see and feel… like a broken arm, headache, aching tooth etc. Whereas the anguish and pain experienced psychologically is an invisible pain which can be experienced as torment.

Be kind to yourself, learn to love yourself, most importantly accept yourself… just as you are ❤️

My 2025 diary for new clients is now opened although I do have limited availability. If you wish to arrange an initial assessment please contact me to discuss further.

Have a blessed day!
Mandy 💕

24/12/2024

Have a wonderfully blessed Christmas from all the team at AchieveNI. 💕💕

09/12/2024

Huge thank you to The Belfast Boys' Model School cake sale fundraiser with proceeds going to Compass Counselling mental health services, collected by Director Sheree Irwin 🙏

05/12/2024

👏👏👏🥰

Teenagers say learning the techniques should be mandatory after attending a class in Hull.

25/11/2024

The Belfast Boys' Model School well done 👏 👏👏👏

Compass Counselling

Address

Unit 7 Merkland Place
Belfast
BT133BH

Telephone

+447811347898

Website

http://www.achieveni.co.uk/

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AchieveNI Counselling & Training Agency

AchieveNI Founder / Psychotherapist Mandy McDermott

We are a professional agency providing counselling; and training services to schools, agencies, communities, professional and statutory bodies across the UK, Ireland and Internationally We provide one-to-one Counselling to children, young people and adults as well as critical incident intervention. Our accredited counsellors specialise in working with survivors of sexual abuse. Our senior staff provide supervision for counsellors and psychotherapists across a range of therapeutic approaches. AchieveNI designs and delivers a wide range of programmes that address current concerns in Community, Post-Primary Schools and Primary Schools settings. All our training courses are researched, delivered and evaluated to the highest possible standards. Feedback from participants highlights the quality of material, the style and chemistry of presenters, and the interactive learning and fun throughout the group process. AchieveNI prides itself in modelling an attitude of respect and inclusively for all participants.

In 2016 AchieveNI partnered with Compass Counselling, a newly established non-profit counselling agency. Directors Mandy McDermott, Joanne McConnaughie and Sheree Irwin believe in taking the holistic approach to a person’s overall well-being and offer Complimentary Therapies, Pure Krav Maga Self Defense and Body Transformation courses as part of their services.