Welcome to HMG Counselling
...where Healthy Minds Gather (HMG)
Hi, my name is Hilary McGuire and I am a qualified and NCPS accredited integrative counsellor.
Integrative Counselling
I’m based in Downpatrick Co. Down and offer face-to-face as well as online/ telephone counselling. Integrative counselling means that I can combine various techniques and approaches to create a personalised plan that is tailored for an individual’s needs. Everyone is unique and everyone is fluid in their needs. With this in mind I provide a flexible and holistic approach which explores an individual’s feelings and thoughts and I use various methods to support them, for example CBT and person-centred approaches. I believe in mutual trust and on building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients.
I work with clients who want support with various issues for example anxiety, relationship problems, issues around self-esteem, loss and grief, and issues around motivation and goal setting.
My approach is driven by you, the client, and so I offer an initial consultation to ensure that we are a good match. This is done online or by telephone and lasts approx 15 mins. Moving forward my sessions last for 50 minutes at a cost of £60.
Ways in which I can help
I help support people who may have a difficulty in their lives from minor troubles to very overwhelming and heartbreaking experiences.
Growth
I support people with their life mapping – considering key events, certain milestones that may have shaped your life or sent it in a different direction. Together we can explore past events and relationships that may have created problems or hurdles in recent life.
I can help rebuild self-confidence and a stronger sense of identity. This might require developing coping strategies to improve low mood and find inner peace. It may also be necessary to silence the inner critic whose voice can come to the surface far too easily when we are feeling uncertain or insecure. I also offer walk and talk therapy.
Relationships
I offer support to people exploring relationships where communication has perhaps become problematic. This could be in a family or work setting. This allows us to explore and acknowledge a range of feelings that may not have come to the surface before.
I use breathing techniques to assist people in various ways. For example, those living with chronic pain, or those who wish to improve focus, or reach a calm, curious approach to self compassion. A place where healthy minds gather.
What issues can counselling help with?
People come to me for help with a wide range of issues. Here are a few of the more common difficulties that can be supported through counselling:
Depression
Problems with confidence or self-esteem
Anger management
Issues relating to sexuality
Difficulties at work or in retirement
Problems with family or school life
Feelings of stress or anxiety
Panic attacks
Relationship problems
Grief, loss or bereavement
Problems with addiction
Trauma and post-traumatic stress
Abuse
“Hilary’s warmth and compassion allowed me to feel safe in our sessions and empowered me to explore historical trauma and its consequences…. Her support and guidance have sustained me in the long and difficult process of forgiveness. I highly recommend Hilary’s counselling service. If offers healing and renewal.”
Joan
“I’ve been attending sessions for several months with Hilary. She has been a great help to me with overcoming mental health issues. I found her to be very professional. Hilary has a natural ability to make you feel at ease and I trusted her implicitly. I would describe her as my guardian angel. Overall, a first class experience.”
Teresa
“Hilary helped me approach chronic pain and ill health issues in a way that both helped me physically; but also made me feel more in control and stronger mentally. Her mindfulness and guided meditations were tailored for me personally and she has helped me move forward with hope.”
John
My location
My practice is situated in a quiet part of Downpatrick, and I regularly see clients from the wider County Down area, including the Newry, Mourne and Down council region. I also welcome clients from neighbouring counties such as County Antrim and County Armagh. I also offer walk and talk therapy if you would like to try this approach. Contact me for full address.
In addition to face-to-face counselling, I also provide telephone and online sessions, offering flexible access for clients across Northern Ireland and further afield. Online therapy can be a useful alternative if travelling is difficult or if you prefer the comfort of your own home.
Sessions & Fees
Counselling sessions for individuals last 50 minutes, usually taking place on a weekly basis, and cost £60 per session My initial assessment is done online or by telephone and lasts approx 15 mins.
I also offer walk and talk therapy if you would like to try this approach.
Get in touch
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about how counselling works, or to arrange an initial assessment appointment. This enables us to discuss the reasons you are thinking of coming to counselling, whether it could be helpful for you and whether I am the right therapist to help.
You can also call me on 07745902709 if you would prefer to leave a message or speak to me first. I am happy to discuss any queries or questions you may have prior to arranging an initial appointment.
All enquires are usually answered within 24 hours, and all contact is strictly confidential and uses secure phone and email services.