National Counselling & Psychotherapy Conference 2026

Speakers

This year’s conference brings together leading voices from psychotherapy, counselling psychology, and the evolving world of digital mental health. Each speaker offers a distinct perspective shaped by years of research, clinical insight, and real world impact.

Mick Cooper
Mick Cooper joins us as one of the field’s most influential thinkers in humanistic, existential, and pluralistic therapies. A Professor of Counselling Psychology at the University of Roehampton, his work has shaped how practitioners understand shared decision-making, personalised therapy, and support for young people. His books, including Working at Relational Depth in Counselling and Psychotherapy and Integrating Counselling and Psychotherapy, are core texts for many therapists. His recent work explores how counselling theory can contribute to wider social change. With over 100 peer-reviewed publications and major awards from both the APA and the BACP, he brings deep experience and fresh thinking to our programme.

Professor Eoin Whelan
Eoin Whelan is a Professor of Business Analytics and Society at the University of Galway. His research looks at how digital media, from smartphones to gaming,  intersects with psychology to shape wellbeing and behaviour. His work features in leading academic journals and international outlets such as CNN, Forbes, and the Financial Times. He also serves on the editorial boards of Cyberpsychology, Behavior and Social Networking and Information and Organization, and advises organisations on digital engagement and wellbeing.

Brian Holohan
Brian Holohan is a psychotherapist, counsellor, and supervisor with extensive clinical and leadership experience. As CEO of 2gether Online, he is at the forefront of innovation in online mental health services. His past roles with the HSE, Department of Health, and the National Implementation Monitoring Committee for Ireland’s mental health policy, Sharing the Vision, reflect his long-standing contribution to mental health at a national level. In 2025, he joined the board of the Irish Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy. His interests include men’s mental health, gender, sexuality, LGBTQ+ issues, and suicide prevention.

Dr Aaron Balick
Dr Aaron Balick is an internationally recognised psychotherapist, author, and speaker whose work explores how technology, AI, and digital culture shape human psychology. With more than 20 years of clinical and academic experience, he translates complex ideas into practical insights for leadership, workplace dynamics, and cultural change. A regular contributor to GQ and the BBC, his voice also appears in The Guardian, Wired, and Newsweek.

Orlagh Reid
Orlagh Reid is an IACP Accredited Psychotherapist, Professional Coach, Group Facilitator, and Writer, specialising in Clinical Sexology, women’s health, and addiction. She works extensively with individuals and groups through her private practice, delivering psychotherapy, coaching, and group facilitation to clients across Ireland and internationally. Alongside her clinical work, she supports health and medical professionals with life and business coaching, helping them clarify their expert niche and build sustainable private practices. Orlagh has been an accredited member of the IACP since 2015 and is a regular contributor to national media publications and podcasts on positive health and wellbeing.

Katrina Dennehy
Katrina Dennehy is a senior Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, clinical supervisor, educator, and the founder of Smaointe CBT, one of Munster’s leading dedicated CBT mental health clinics. She is a two-time award-winning therapist, recognised for excellence in evidence-based clinical practice and leadership in mental health services. As well as achieving a Sociology degree, diploma in Child Psychology and having trained in EMDR therapy, Katrina holds a Master’s degree in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Supervision, and is currently completing her PhD at University College Cork, with a research focus on the impact of technology use on adolescent and young adult mental health. Alongside her clinical work, she is the Head of Postgraduate Programmes and lecturer at PCI College, where she trains the next generation of psychotherapists. She has extensive experience delivering educational talks, workshops, and presentations nationally, particularly on the impact of technology, social media, and digital behaviours on mental health, resilience, anxiety, and wellbeing. Her work bridges research, clinical practice, and public education, with a strong emphasis on practical, evidence-based strategies that empower individuals, families, schools, and organisations.