Ollie Smyth- Psychotherapist

27/02/2026

I'd an interesting Friday of training and self-care.

Firstly this morning had an eye opening worshop in North East Region Drugs Task ForceNavan on Chemsex in Ireland and how to work with and help individuals engage in services.

Second up was a shamaste breath work workshop in The Red Door Project, which explored the art of holding space for yourself and others with presence, patience and compassion.

17/02/2026

Humanistic Theory in Integrative Therapy

Humanistic theory believes that every person has the capacity for growth and change when met with empathy, understanding, and acceptance.

Developed by thinkers such as Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, this approach places the therapeutic relationship at the centre of healing.

As an integrative counsellor and psychotherapist, I use humanistic principles alongside other approaches to create therapy that is tailored to you — your experiences, your needs, and your goals.

Real change happens when we feel heard, valued, and understood.

16/02/2026

CBT as Part of an Integrative Approach

At Ollie Smyth Counselling & Psychotherapy, I work integratively – which means I draw on different therapeutic approaches to meet you where you are.

One of the key approaches I use is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). CBT helps us explore the connection between our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, and how unhelpful patterns can keep us stuck. Together, we can gently challenge these patterns and develop more supportive ways of coping.

Used alongside other therapeutic approaches, CBT can be especially helpful for:
✔ Anxiety and stress
✔ Low mood and depression
✔ Building confidence and self-esteem
✔ Managing overwhelming or intrusive thoughts

An integrative way of working means therapy isn’t “one size fits all”. We tailor sessions to your needs, goals, and pace – combining practical tools with deeper exploration and emotional support.

If you’re curious about starting therapy or would like to learn more, feel free to get in touch.

13/02/2026

Psychodynamic Therapy in an Integrative Approach

As part of my integrative way of working at Ollie Smyth Counselling & Psychotherapy, I sometimes use a psychodynamic approach to help clients explore how past experiences can influence present thoughts, feelings, and relationships.

This work focuses on increasing self-awareness, understanding patterns, and making sense of emotions that may feel confusing or overwhelming. Gaining insight can support meaningful change and emotional growth.

Every client is different, so therapy is always tailored to your individual needs and pace.

12/02/2026

Have limited availability on a Wednesday morning online or face to face. Please message for enquiries, thanks 😊

12/02/2026

11/02/2026

A relationship ending can feel like the ground has shifted beneath your feet.
You may feel sadness, anger, relief, confusion — sometimes all at once.

There is no “right” way to grieve a relationship.
What matters is giving yourself permission to feel and to heal at your own pace.

Counselling can help you make sense of what you’re experiencing and support you as you begin your next chapter with greater clarity and self-compassion.

You deserve space to heal. You deserve support.

Ollie Smyth, Counselling and Psychotherapy.

10/02/2026

Trauma-

Trauma doesn’t always come from one big event. It can come from feeling unsafe, unheard, or overwhelmed over time.

It can affect how we think, feel, and relate to others — often long after the experience has passed.

In therapy, there is space to explore this gently and at your own pace, in a safe and supportive environment, as every person's experience of trauma is unique and subjective.

You don’t have to carry it alone. Support is available.

Ollie Smyth, Counselling and Psychotherapy.

09/02/2026

“What someone else thinks of me is none of my business.”

A powerful reminder that our peace doesn’t come from controlling how others see us, but from knowing who we are.
In therapy, we often explore how much energy goes into people-pleasing, fear of judgement, and self-doubt. Letting go of others’ opinions can be an important step toward self-acceptance and emotional freedom.

You are allowed to be yourself!!!

09/02/2026

✨ My Way of Working: Clarkson’s Five Relationship Model ✨

At Ollie Smyth Counselling & Psychotherapy, my work is guided by Clarkson’s Five Relationship Model, which recognises the importance of the therapeutic relationship in creating meaningful change.

This approach values:
• A strong working alliance
• Understanding past relationship patterns
• A safe and reparative therapeutic space
• An authentic person-to-person connection
• Room for deeper meaning and personal growth

Therapy is a collaborative, supportive relationship where healing and insight can develop.

If you’d like to learn more about how I work, feel free to get in touch.

06/02/2026

Grief-

Grief can come from many kinds of loss – not only the death of someone we love, but also the loss of a relationship, health, or a future we hoped for. There is no right or wrong way to grieve.

Some days may feel heavy, others confusing or numb. All of it is part of being human. You don’t have to rush the process or go through it alone.

Support can make a difference. Talking in a safe space can help you understand your feelings and take gentle steps forward, at your own pace.

Ollie Smyth, Counselling and Psychotherapy.

05/02/2026

Self-compassion means treating yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend who is struggling.

When the inner critic softens, space opens for understanding, growth, and healing. You don’t have to be so hard on yourself to move forward.

You deserve care, not criticism. 🤍

Ollie Smyth Counselling & Psychotherapy