29-05-2025
Sligo counsellor who helps fill the gap in mental health support for young people receives award
The IACP Regional Awards recognise an IACP accredited member who has made a notable contribution to the profession of counselling and psychotherapy in their local community and region.
Mr Gilhooly who is originally from Fenagh, Leitrim, has spent over 20 years working in youth work, school chaplaincy, and community development in the east of Ireland before moving back to the north west and launching his counselling initiative in Sligo for the last 15 years. Allen manages a team of seven therapists providing accessible therapy for adults across two centres in both Sligo town and Kilglass near Enniscrone.
IACP Cathaoirleach Jade Lawless commented:
'I would like to congratulate Allen Gilhooly West / North West Regional Award. Allen has made an outstanding contribution to the counselling and psychotherapy profession across the north west region. I would like to wish him continued success and also commend the West/ North West Regional Committee for choosing such a worthy recipient for the award. I would also like to wish Allen well with his continued professional development, another hallmark of his commitment to the profession'
Award Recipient Allen Gilhooly remarked: 'I am honoured to be nominated at this pivotal moment in my career. My mission has been to fill the gap in mental health support in our region, ensuring that people—especially young individuals—have a safe space to navigate life's challenges. This recognition reaffirms the importance of the work we are doing."
Mr Gilhooly's journey in therapy continues as he completes further studies in Cross Professional Supervision with the International College for Personal and Professional Development ICPPD in Athlone later this year.
The annual awards ceremony was held recently at the IACP's 10th annual conference at the Maryborough Hotel, Cork.
