What is Couple & Family Therapy?

Couple & Family Therapy is a specialised form of psychotherapy offered at St. John of God Hospital. This service supports individuals, couples, and families in building stronger relationships and improving communication.

Our highly skilled systemic family therapists, registered with the Family Therapy Association of Ireland (FTAI) and the Irish Council of Psychotherapists (ICP), are dedicated to fostering meaningful connections while addressing relational and mental health challenges. Therapy is delivered in an LGBT+ inclusive manner, with sensitivity to the impact of stigma, discrimination, and social exclusion, ensuring a supportive and affirming space for all.

Key Benefits of Couple & Family Therapy:

• Promotes open communication.
• Increases understanding of different perspectives.
• Builds on relational resources to strengthen family dynamics.

If you’re seeking professional support to address relationship issues or family challenges, our Couple & Family Therapy service provides a safe and supportive environment to work through these difficulties.

Who is Couple & Family Therapy For?

Our therapy services can help with:

• Couple relationship challenges: Improve communication, resolve conflicts, and rebuild trust.
• Family issues related to substance misuse: Address the impact of addiction on family dynamics.
• Family conflict, separation, or loss: Navigate complex emotions and transitions.
• Mental health conditions: Support for eating disorders, depression, and psychosis within a family context.

Eligibility Criteria

Our Couple & Family Therapy service ensures a safe and effective environment.

Unfortunately, we cannot accept referrals for:

• Individuals in active addiction.
• Those who are actively suicidal or engaging in self-harm behaviours.
• Families with current or historical abuse involving participating members.
• Patients in active crisis or currently inpatient.

If you’re unsure about eligibility, please contact us for guidance.

What to Expect During Therapy

At St. John of God Hospital, Couple & Family Therapy sessions focus on:

• Improving communication within relationships.
• Enhancing understanding of each other’s perspectives.
• Building relational resources to foster resilience and connection.

Therapists: Our systemic family therapists are highly skilled and registered with national accrediting bodies.

Confidentiality: Therapists liaise with Consultant Psychiatrists as needed, ensuring comprehensive, patient-centred care.

Session Cost: Therapy sessions are €160 each.

How to Access Couple & Family Therapy

If You Are a Current Patient at St. John of God Hospital: Speak with your treating team to discuss a referral to Couple & Family Therapy.

If You Are a New Patient: Contact your GP to explore referral options and start the process.

How to Refer Patients

Referrers can submit referrals via:

• HealthLink or your practice manager system.
• Email: [email protected]
• Post: Couple & Family Therapy Service,
  Outpatient Services,
  St. John of God Hospital,
  Stillorgan, Co. Dublin, A94 FH92.

Referrals require a completed form and must meet the service’s eligibility criteria.

Why Choose St. John of God Hospital for Couple & Family Therapy?

St. John of God Hospital has a long-standing reputation for providing evidence-based mental health care. Our Couple & Family Therapy service is led by experienced therapists who work collaboratively with individuals and families to achieve positive outcomes.