Laura Bray Counselling and Psychotherapy

24/12/2025

A reminder for Christmas: it’s normal to feel many different things. You might notice joy, sadness, stress, nostalgia, anger, loneliness, or nothing much at all. All of it is valid.

Thank you to all of my clients this year, I’m really grateful for the trust you place in me and for the work we do.

If Christmas isn’t all “merry and bright” for you, you’re not alone, that’s actually completely normal. Be kind with yourself where you can.

I’ll be taking a break over the holidays and will be back in the office from January 7th. 🌟

23/10/2024

I love TikTok just as much as the next person—it’s fun and informative, and it’s amazing to see others like us, reminding us we’re not alone.

However, it’s essential to recognize its limitations when it comes to mental health. While some videos offer valuable insights, they can’t replace the personalised support of real therapy. Quick clips can’t provide a diagnosis or the deep conversation you might need.

Like many social media platforms, TikTok isn’t immune to misinformation. While some therapists share valuable insights, it’s important to be cautious about advice from strangers. Even certified professionals are offering guidance to a wide audience, which may not apply to your specific situation. Always prioritize personalised support when it comes to your mental health!

If TikTok raises concerns about your mental well-being, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional.
Your mental health is a priority! 💙

03/01/2024

January can be a time of year when lots of people consider starting counselling, or perhaps re-engaging with their existing counsellor or therapist. Understandably, this can often be a really daunting prospect to so many, particularly those who are considering getting some support for the first time.

I put together some answers of the most common questions I find that clients have, before starting therapy which I hope might be helpful.

Please feel free to share and don't hesitate to reach out to me if you have any additional questions.

~ Laura

Laura Bray 05/10/2023 Laura Bray 05/10/2023 Starting Therapy: Your Frequently Asked Questions Answered It all begins with an idea. Starting counselling or psychotherapy is a significant step towards improving your mental and emotional well-being, but it can also be a daunting one and often comes wit...

31/12/2023

Happy New Year 🥳
This made me smile when I saw it!!

Looking forward to getting back to work in 2024 (I’m back Wednesday 3rd Jan), catching up with all of clients and I’m sure welcoming some new ones.

So long 2023 👋

24/12/2023

Wishing all of my clients the very best this Christmas. 🎄 Looking forward to seeing you all in 2024!

03/11/2023

I’m seeing this more and more in my counselling practice. I think it’s fantastic that going to therapy is becoming normalised as a routine part of self-care.

11/09/2023

I'm excited to announce that I have moved my practice to my new office space in Castletroy. It's a really modern comfortable environment with plenty of free parking and a lift! (My existing clients will appreciate why this is exciting to me!) To all of my clients, I appreciate all of your support with the move and looking forward to continuing our journey together in Castletroy.
Laura

31/12/2022

There can be a lot of pressure to make resolutions this time of year in an effort to “change ourselves” or “be better”. Just a gentle reminder to all of my clients that you are more than okay just as you are.

Thank you all for inspiring me in so many ways this year. I appreciate you all so much and I’m looking forward to continuing our journey of self reflection and self compassion in 2023.

~ Laura

14/10/2022

https://www.moms.com/why-moms-need-to-stop-acting-like-everythings-okay/

Social media has transformed the way my generation views parenthood! “Momfluencer” Instagram accounts – most of them run by slim, attractive women with immaculate houses and perfectly dressed children – are in your feed even if you don’t follow them.

This isn't real life!

So many women I talk to struggle with the perceived demands of what it means to be a modern Irish mother and partner. We've got to start opening up to each other and talking about how challenging it can all be at times. It can be really hard to keep everything going and it's okay to ask for help!

Any mother reading this right now has been shocked by the emotional and mental toll of motherhood.

07/09/2022

Sometimes it really is that simple.

02/09/2022

If you have a couple of minutes to spare, this video is a really good summary of some of the things I often talk to clients about. These are some of the common myths that we often believe about happiness and living a full life. Let me know what you think!

This entertaining animation illustrates the 3 happiness myths that we have been lead to believe, involving our thoughts and feelings. Written and narrated by...

23/08/2022