CDYS’ therapeutic supports during C-19

A RESIDENT outreach worker with the Cloyne Diocesan Youth Service (CDYS) has said they remain committed to providing specialist therapeutic supports for young people throughout the COVID-19 crisis.

Finbarr O’Donovan, an accredited counsellor and psychotherapist with a B.A. (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy said that in line with government advice all CDYS buildings are closed and they are unable to offer ‘facetoappointments.

“However, we have moved our services to remote working and we are pleased to let people know it is ‘ business as usual’ with online assessments and therapy for adolescents. Support is also available for adults,” said Finbarr.

There are available through the Zoom platform which Finbarr stressed was similar to Skype “but more secure”.

“We are having such positive experiences so fare with online therapy. So we encourage people to try it out, even if they may have doubts about how it will feel for them,” said Finbarr.

Services offered include low cost counselling to adolescents over 12-years-of-age in the Mallow, Charleville and Mitchelstown areas addressing issues such as trauma, anxiety depression and improving family relationships.

Finbarr said CDYS also art and play therapy to young people within the Cloyne Diocese and low-cost counselling for adults.

“During this difficult time we realise children, young people and adults may need to talk about their situations with someone who is impartial and understanding for them to be able to analyse and process their thoughts and feelings,” said Finbarr.

“Anyone who would like to learn more about our therapeutic services and supports can visit our website at www. cdys.ie or contact me directly on 086 184 1860 or by email at finbarr@cdys.ie.