About Gerry Costello
Having worked in the disability sector for over 25 years, I began training as a psychotherapist with Middlesex University in 2023.
Throughout my work in disability services, I came face to face with the many challenges experienced by individuals and their families.
These situations led me to work with a psychology team in supporting people to navigate their mental health difficulties.
During this time, I:
Oversaw the development of an independent living program for young adults.
Studied for a degree in education.
Provided training to frontline staff and facilitated team development on an organisational level.
I have long held an interest in mental health and personal development. Over the years, I supported men’s groups, completed training in self-compassion, and attended many meditation retreats. My studies in psychotherapy have deepened my belief in the power of being truly heard, something that many of us rarely experience in our daily lives. I believe that each person has the capacity to heal and holds many answers to their own difficulties.
Through my work in care settings, the importance of self-care has become obvious to me, sometimes through my own experience of neglecting it. This has shaped my strong interest in self-compassion and the value of developing a kinder inner voice.
I am interested in the potential that self-enquiry offers, helping us untangle the more chaotic parts of ourselves and develop new patterns of thinking. This idea is reflected in the metaphor of tangled wool coming into order, as represented in my logo.
What to Expect in Counselling
In my counselling work, I aim to provide a safe, attentive space where clients feel heard and supported in uncovering their own answers. Many of our struggles can stem from deep feelings of unworthiness or disconnection. Understanding how we came to be the way we are can be a powerful part of healing.
I can introduce a range of practical tools to help you develop more self-awareness around your challenges, including:
- Grounding exercises
- Insights from different therapeutic approaches
I welcome clients from all walks of life and value the richness of our diverse communities, including differences in neurodivergence, sexual orientation, and cultural background. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, working alongside you, and being guided by your needs and goals.
Organisational Training Services
Alongside my counselling work, I also provide training to organisations, either independently or in partnership with my colleague Gráinne Delaney. I focus particularly on self-care training for staff working in social care settings, drawing on a range of theoretical approaches and practical tools.
My aim is to help staff better understand themselves, why they respond as they do, what supports them to stay grounded, and how to recognise when they need to take action to care for themselves.
Qualifications & Studies
- BA in Training & Education | NUI Galway, 2005.
- BSc (Hons) in Counselling and Psychotherapy | Middlesex University via PCI College (Currently in year 3 of a 4-year program).
- Start Your Own Business Course | Local ETB (Two-year course, completing at the end of May 2026).
- MAPA (Managing Actual and Potential Aggression) Instructor | Training undertaken while with the Brothers of Charity; delivered to frontline staff.
Completed Workshops & Professional Development
- Working Professionally Online (with PCI, Nov 2024)
- TUSLA’s Children First Mandated Person (Nov 2024)
- Introduction to Compassion Focussed Therapy (3-day workshop, March 2025)
- Safetalk – Suicide Awareness (Nov 2025)