January is often labelled “Divorce Month.” Family law firms see an increase in enquiries, and many people begin searching for couples counselling in Swords, North Dublin, and surrounding areas. But January does not break relationships. It exposes cracks that were already there. https://youtube.com/shorts/nhYmjZTqnjU?si=1aTexJLBOiql27kS The…
The “Nothing Happened moment at a Christmas party or did it?
Christmas parties are usually harmless. Bit of food, a few drinks, everyone pretending the Secret Santa budget wasn’t completely ignored.But every year here in Swords, Balbrigan, Port Marnock or Malahide you may hear the same kind of story. Not about affairs, but about moments.…
From Legacy to Identity: What House of Guinness Teaches Us About Who We Really Are
Netflix’s House of Guinness isn’t really about a pint of stout. It’s about family secrets, the weight of expectations, and people trying to figure out who they are while living under someone else’s rules. And honestly, that hits close to home. Because most of…
Defensiveness – “We Were on a Break!” and Other Ways We Miss the Point
Let’s be honest if you’ve ever heard the phrase “We were on a break!” you probably instantly think of Friends and Ross shouting it from the rooftops. But behind the sitcom punchline is something many of us recognise in ourselves or our relationships: defensiveness.…
Introducing Siobhan McCarthy
Meet Siobhan McCarthy: A Pluralistic Psychotherapist at Summit Counselling & Psychotherapy Swords At Summit Counselling & Psychotherapy Swords, we know that finding the right counsellor is one of the most important steps on your journey. Every therapist brings their own style, training, and personality…
Contempt – Eye Rolls & Emotional Distance
Contempt is often described as the most destructive of the Gottman’s’ Four Horsemen. It doesn’t just hurt — it erodes the very foundation of emotional safety in a relationship. Where criticism attacks a partner’s behaviour or character, contempt communicates disgust, often through sarcasm, sneering,…
Criticism: The First Horseman
What Ross and Rachel Can Teach Us About Communication We’ve all been there—feeling frustrated with our partner and blurting out something that starts with, “You always…” or “Why do you never…” According to Dr. John Gottman, this is the first sign that a relationship…
Why Am I Still Single? Understanding the Deeper Reasons Behind Relationship Patterns
If you’re wondering why you’re still single, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not broken. Many people in Swords, Malahide, and surrounding areas come to counselling with similar questions. Understanding your patterns in relationships, how you approach emotional connection, and even how your past shaped…
Coping with Loss: Finding Stability in Uncertain Times
Loss isn’t just about death. It can take many forms—losing a relationship, a job, a friendship, your health, or even a sense of security. Any major life change can bring feelings of uncertainty, grief, and a loss of control over your own situation. When…
Coping with Bereavement: Navigating Grief in Your Own Way
Bereavement is the deep sense of loss we experience when someone we love dies. It’s not just sadness—it can bring up a mix of emotions like anger, guilt, loneliness, and even anxiety. And here’s the thing: there’s no right or wrong way to grieve.…
