About Me

I am a pluralistic, trauma-informed psychotherapist with a deep commitment to supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges. For over 13 years, I have worked in the community, offering both professional and voluntary support to people struggling with mental health difficulties, trauma, addiction, attachment issues, and social isolation. My passion lies in empowering people to heal, fostering resilience, and helping individuals find strength in their own stories.

Alongside my clinical practice, I have delivered lived experience trauma talks to educate the public on the impact of trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). I believe that by raising awareness, breaking the cycle of trauma, and promoting compassionate understanding, we can create stronger, healthier communities.

My approach to therapy is client-centred, flexible, and integrative, ensuring that sessions are tailored to each person’s unique needs. Some of my clients have travelled from outside the county to see me.

I have Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) training, which enables me to support children and families using the PACE model:

🟡 Playfulness – creating a safe and enjoyable space 

🟡 Acceptance – understanding emotions without judgment 

🟡 Curiosity – exploring experiences with openness 

🟡 Empathy – providing emotional support and connection

I believe that healing happens through connection—whether it’s within ourselves, in our relationships, or in our communities. My goal is to create a safe, compassionate space where clients feel truly seen, heard, and supported on their journey toward well-being.

Welcome to My Story

My Journey: From Lived Experience to Healing Others.

My name is Sue Cushen, and my journey into psychotherapy has been deeply personal. My lived experiences with trauma, adversity, and healing have shaped not only who I am but also how I support others on their paths.

From a young age, I witnessed and experienced the profound effects of trauma, which led me to seek understanding and healing. Over the years, I worked through my own challenges, navigating shame, resilience, and self-discovery. My personal healing journey has given me an intimate understanding of what it means to feel lost, to search for meaning, and to rebuild a sense of self. I know first-hand the power of feeling heard, understood, and supported—and I bring this knowledge into my practice every day.

My Professional Path

Building Expertise

Through Experience

My passion for supporting others led me to pursue formal training in Social Care, Trauma-Informed Practice, and Counselling & Psychotherapy. I hold a Level 8 degree in Social Care, a Level 9 qualification in Trauma-Informed Practice, and an HDip in Counselling & Psychotherapy. Currently, I am completing my Master’s in Pluralistic Counselling & Psychotherapy, expanding my expertise to offer more integrative and client-centered approaches.

I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, and adults, supporting individuals facing complex mental health challenges, trauma, attachment difficulties, and behavioural concerns. I have training in LGTBQ+ community and a level 9 in Resilience in Self and Others in the Workplace. My experience includes fostering children with complex needs, working with individuals impacted by addiction, and supporting those with Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD)/Bipolar. I have completed couples therapy training Karen Murphy, Couples Therapy Institute Ireland. Additionally, I have provided trauma-aware training to professionals, supporting them create safer, more supportive environments. I believe everyone’s light can be switched on.

Why I Do This Work

My Mission

Healing is possible. I have seen it, lived it, and continue to witness it in my clients every day. My mission is to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where people feel safe to explore their experiences, emotions, and identities.

Passion

I know the courage it takes to seek support, and I deeply respect each individual’s journey. Whether you are struggling with past trauma, mental health challenges, or simply seeking personal growth, I am here to walk alongside you with empathy, understanding, and professional guidance.

Education &

Professional Qualifications

Current:

Masters in Pluralistic Counselling and Psychotherapy (IICP College)

Completed:

• BA Hons in Social Care 4 year degree With DKIT

• Higher Diploma in Science in Integrative Psychotherapeutic Studies (QQI Level 8)

• level 9 in Trauma-informed Care: Theory and Practice University College Cork

• level 9 in Building Work-Based Resilience in Self and Others University College Cork

• Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) Level One and Two Dan Huges

• Motivational Interviewing Level One and Two Social Care Ireland

• Children’s First Training HSE and Barnardo’s

• Couples Therapy Training with Karen Murphy, Couples Therapy Institute Ireland.

• Diploma in CBT

• Diploma in mental health and addiction

• Training in LGBT+QI

• Registered Social Care Worker with CORU

• Membership with the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP)
• Membership / Accreditation with Adolescent Psychotherapists and Counsellors in Ireland

• Pre - Accreditation of Addiction Counsellors of Ireland - ACI

I give lived experience trauma talks to educate the public and support people heal.

I will always learn through cdp and not only do I want to but it’s also an ethical standard for all Irish bodies I’m recognised with. All my certifications are on display.

Please find standards of proficiency and ethics

Code of practice for iacp.

ACI Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics

Code of Ethics and Practice for Addiction Workers

Ready to Begin your Healing Journey?

I invite you to reach out. Together, we can explore what healing looks like for you, at your own pace, in a way that feels right for you.

You are not alone. I am here to guide you!

what my clients say

Jess, Co MEATH

I did counselling with Sue for a few months, she really helped me see my potential and to navigate life better. She’s very kind and caring and I’m greatful for the help I received over the months.