Nollaig McSweeney DBT Therapist

25/09/2025

🎶 Not my usual music... I'm preparing for a session with a young client later today, who finds it hard to put her thoughts and feelings into words. She adores Metallica, so I'm bringing their music into the session which will hopefully become a bridge she can use to share why the music matters to her, and from there we might be able to explore what’s going on inside...

She was thrilled when I suggested we listen to some Metallica together 🎸

Connection can look very different depending on the young person; sometimes it’s art, sport, gaming, or in this case, heavy metal. Once there’s connection, therapy has a place to begin. And often, the connection itself is deeply therapeutic.

Music has power beyond words and who knows, I might become a Metallica fan 🤔 😁 🎶

23/09/2025

Such talent and creativity! Well done all Scoil na Buachaillí Clonakilty 👏 🎸🎶

🎶 A Special Musical Moment: Song Launch Inspired by George Lowden 🎸 Our school had the incredible honour of launching a brand-new song inspired by world-renowned guitar maker George Lowden — with Mr. Lowden himself in the audience. The song, written and performed by our talented pupils a...

23/09/2025

Is your child/adolescent struggling with anxiety, low confidence, poor sleep or finding social situations challenging? 💭

Find below 👇 the answers to questions I am often asked.

I offer a free 15min telephone consultation to explore if what I do might be a good fit for your child. 🤔

Text me on 087 434 4621 to set up a call ☎️

04/09/2025

Imagine if they said...

There were many things that were never said and I am often asked what would have made a difference.

Whether conversations help us make informed choices, show empathy or prevent further isolation when we are going through extremely difficult times, words hold weight...

Conversations can be something that influence and change approaches and attitudes.
They can show kindness and care.
They can share a load.

04/09/2025

As the new school year begins, huge good luck to all students, parents and teachers. I'm thinking especially of those making the big leap from primary to secondary. 💥

Let’s also acknowledge the students who carry hidden loads, those who struggle to feel safe and comfortable in school, those facing illness, loss, anxiety, bullying, or extra responsibilities at home... You are remarkable. 💛

Our education system isn’t always easy to navigate. For many, to show up takes huge amounts of courage, persistence, and spirit far beyond any points or grades. Here’s to a year of growth, kindness, and new beginnings, for all students. ✨

21/08/2025

📝Do you know somebody getting their Leaving Cert results tomorrow?

Results day can stir up a lot of emotions - excitement, relief, uncertainty, and sometimes disappointment. All of these feelings are valid💛

Whether it’s you or someone you care about, here are four DBT skills to help ride the wave 🌊

🌱 Mindfulness
💆🏻‍♀️ Self-Soothe
🧠 Wise Mind
🔍 Check The Facts

✨ Share this with someone who could use a little support tomorrow, or tag them below 👇🏼💕

20/08/2025

First Resilience Rebels Workshop done ✔️
Together we explored confidence, tackled nerves, laughed at illusions, moved our bodies, and discovered how the right mindset can shift everything!

One of my favourite moments today was when one of the boys asked me: “Will you be doing this all over Ireland? Will you remember us?”

The answer is yes. A thousand times yes. There will be a special place in my heart for the first crew who showed up. 💜❤️

A huge thank you to Calem Harte for leading the fitness section with such energy and heart. The boys really enjoyed his session 💜

Here’s what one parent shared afterwards:

“The boys really enjoyed it and found the tools simple, practical, and fun. Both Nollaig and Calem pitched everything perfectly to their level, making communication easy and positive. It was a great balance of movement, mindset, and encouragement. We’d highly recommend this workshop to others.”

I am delighted with how it went and I look forward to announcing the next one!

Thank you also to Padraig at Ahamilla for seamless booking, organising and provision of a perfect space.

19/08/2025

Workshop Prep nearly complete...

The countdown is on for our Resilience Rebels Workshop tomorrow in Clonakilty, and my desk is covered in notes, sketches, and ideas. From worksheets that spark self-reflection, to the 30-Day Rebel Challenge, to hands-on activities with Calem, it’s all coming together 🤩

I'm working hard to make sure the boys will leave with practical tools, new confidence, and maybe even some new friends.

I’m really looking forward to seeing it all come alive in the room. I'm also a little nervous; the helpful kind of nervous, that drives me to ensure I give it my all! 🔥

Parents, what would your teen put in their Three Wishes Box? 🤔

17/08/2025

“He’s such a great kid… I just wish he could see it too.”

That’s exactly why I created Resilience Rebels. A Workshop designed for boys aged 13 -16 who might be shy, quiet, or not into the sports scene.

📅 Wednesday 20th August (10am - 2pm, Clonakilty)

On the day, the boys will learn to:
💪 Build confidence through movement and mindset
💥 Handle nerves & self-doubt with practical tools
🤝 Connect with others in a safe, supportive space

✨ Bonus: Every boy gets a Rebel starter pack plus a follow up review session after 30 days to explore the 30 day challenge...

⏰ Just 3 days to go, limited places remain.
📲 Text/WhatsApp Nollaig on 087 434 4621 to book.

11/08/2025

🔥Meet Calem Harte, Munster Rugby player bringing energy, experience and heart to the fitness side of Resilience Rebels 💪 💜

Calem knows first-hand the discipline, mindset, and resilience it takes to succeed both on and off the pitch.
He’s passionate about helping all lads, not just the sporty ones. Calem understands how to build confidence, physical strength, and the mental tools to handle whatever life throws. (See comments for Calem's contact details.)

At Resilience Rebels, Calem will be leading an accessible, fun physical session using resistance bands, showing how flexibility is as important in life as it is in sport. He’ll also challenge the boys to a 3-minute-a-day commitment for 30 days.

Places are limited for our Wed 20th August workshop in Ahamilla Sports Complex, Clonakilty.

📞087 434 4621

11/08/2025

For the Quiet Ones

Not every boy wants to be on a team.
Not every boy shouts loud.
Some boys are shy, awkward, or just not into sport, and still want to feel strong, confident, and connected.

Resilience Rebels is a one-day workshop for boys aged 13-16, Wed 20th August,
Ahamilla Sports Complex, Clonakilty.

💥 Build confidence
💥 Learn mental + physical strength tools
💥 Meet others in a low-pressure, supportive space

Places Limited
Enquiries or Booking ➡️ 087 434 4621

09/08/2025

Congratulations to Sinéad Crowley, winner of the Resilience Rebels Giveaway! 💚

Sinéad has received this beautiful Soothing Kit from Turn The Key Gifts & Cara Holistics, lovingly created right here in West Cork. ✨

A big thank you to everyone who entered and helped spread the word about Resilience Rebels, the one-day workshop for boys aged 13-16, happening Wednesday 20th August in Ahamilla Sports Complex.

Do you know a teen boy who is shy, unsure and not into sport? At the Resilience Rebels Workshop he can:
💥 Build confidence
💥 Learn mental + physical strength tools
💥 Understand emotions and how to manage them
💥 Connect in a supportive, low-pressure space

Enquiries or Booking 087 434 4621