Helpful Resources

---

Whether you are exploring an autism diagnosis for yourself or your child, or seeking support after a diagnosis, you are not alone.

Trusted Resources:

- AsIAm – Ireland’s National Autism Charity, offering resources, advocacy, and support.

- Shine – Supports people with mental health difficulties, including autism.

- NCSE – National Council for Special Education, with info on educational supports.

Private Assessments:

Many families choose to pursue private autism assessments due to long waiting lists. 

When booking, it’s important to check:

- That the assessment team includes a Clinical Psychologist or Educational

Psychologist.

- That the report will be accepted by schools and the HSE for supports.

- Whether a multidisciplinary team is involved (often the most thorough).

If you are in immediate danger, please call 999 or 112. You are not alone, and help is

available right now.

Crisis Helplines:

- Samaritans – 24/7 listening support. Call 116 123 (free).

- Pieta House – Free counselling for people experiencing suicidal thoughts or self-

harm. Call 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444.

Other Supports:

- Aware – Support groups and resources for depression and mood difficulties.

Supportive Note:

Speaking about suicidal thoughts can feel frightening, but reaching out is the first step

towards relief and healing. Therapy can also provide a safe space to explore these feelings at

your own pace.

If you have experienced sexual violence, know that what happened was not your fault. You

deserve safety, care, and support.

24/7 Helpline:

- Dublin Rape Crisis Centre Call 

1800 77 88 88 (free, 24/7).

Other Resources:

- Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) – Information and links to local crisis centres.

- One in Four – Support for adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse.

Supportive Note:

You don’t need to go through this alone. Alongside specialist services, therapy can provide a

safe, confidential space to begin healing.

Exploring or questioning your gender identity, or seeking support during transition, can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Safe, affirming support is available.

Trusted Resources:

- TENI (Transgender Equality Network Ireland) – Advocacy, peer support, and

resources for transgender and non-binary people.

- LGBT Ireland – Helpline, peer support groups, and information. Call 1800 929 539.

- BeLonG To Youth Services – Support for LGBTQ+ young people in Ireland.

Supportive Note:

Therapy can be a safe and affirming space to explore questions of identity, transition, or relationships at your own pace.

Addiction can affect individuals and families in deep ways, but recovery and support are

possible.

Trusted Services:

- Cuan Mhuire – Residential addiction treatment and rehabilitation.

- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA Ireland) – Peer-led recovery groups.

- Narcotics Anonymous Ireland – Fellowship support for drug addiction.

- Drugs.ie – National information and support services.

Supportive Note:

Therapy can provide a safe space to explore the underlying issues behind addiction, while

also supporting loved ones affected.

Tusla is Ireland’s Child and Family Agency, responsible for child protection, welfare, and family support services.

Key Services:

- Child Protection & Welfare – Reporting concerns about a child’s safety.

- Family Support – Services for parents, guardians, and carers.

- Educational Support – Helping children stay engaged in school.

Useful Links:

- Tusla Main Website

 Child Protection & WelfareTusla - Child and Family Agency 

Supportive note

If you are worried about your child or family situation, therapy can provide a confidential

space to talk through your concerns and feel supported alongside official services.