Killaloe centre launches new counselling service

A COUNSELLING service for people living in the Killaloe and Ballina areas will be launched in a local family resource centre next week.
The Killaloe/Ballina Community and Family Resource Centre will launch thEnew service on Wednesday, October 12 from 2pm to 6pm as part of an expansion of its range of services offered at Main Street. Serving a catchment population of 4,046, the centre has been in existence since 2003.
The new service involves a team of six trained counsellors supported by two student counsellors. Counsellors are trained in a range of disciplines including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), humanistic and integrative counselling. There is also a play therapist available to work with children seeking support.
Resource centre chairman, Enda Gillen, said the centre is delighted to be able to launch such an important service during World Mental Health Week.
“The family resource centre is a well-used resource by the local community and the provision of a low-cost counselling service allows us to offer a greater range of services to those who may need such supports in such difficult times,” he said.
The provision of the service has been prompted by the level of requests received at the centre for counselling support.
Co-ordinator Kees Duson explained staff are conscious of the stresses and pressures currently evident throughout the communitY.
“Counselling can be very effective in assisting people address personal issues and building confidence to face the many challenges that life brings. The service facilitates a collaborative relationship between counsellor and client that allows the client explore specific issues and develop more satisfying and resourceful ways of living.
“Counsellors recognise the importance of confidentiality in establishing such a relationship. We would encourage anybody who feels the need to talk to someone to seek counselling support. This service is very much aimed at those who seek support at a very affordable price, related to their means,” he said.
The service is financially supported by the Family Support Agency. Further information including tips on relaxation and life-coaching advice will be provided at the community cafe from 2pm on Wednesday next.
Meanwhile, the Back To Education Initiative (BTEI) at Clare VEC IS proposing to offer a FETAC horticulture programme in Killaloe. The course is for adults who wish to develop their skills and knowledge in vegetable growing, plant use, soil management and landscaping as well as using information technology to assist in growing.
Free tuition is available to anyone who has not completed their Junior/Leaving Certificate, to social welfare recipients and their dependants and to medical card holders and their dependants.
North Tipperary VEC, in conjunction with the Family Resource Centre, will also provide an Introduction to Dry Stone Walling course in October.
The parent and toddler group has recommenced at the centre from 10am to 12pm on Mondays with some craft activities for parents and children aged up to five years.
Meet are train are weekly walking/running groups set up ad supported by Clare and North Tipperary Sports Partnerships. They provide a great opportunity for women of all ages and levels of fitness to meet on a weekly basis for one hour only and train in a fun and social environment. A registration night will take place at Ballina GAA Club Hall this Thursday at 7pm.
A Harvest Tea Dance will take place on Friday, October 21 from 2pm to 4.30pm at the Lakeside Hotel.
For further information, contact the family resource centre on 061 374741.