Emma Dowd: Humanistic & Integrative Psychotherapy for Children in Clondalkin
A safe, nurturing space where children can heal, grow, and thrive through compassionate, child-centred psychotherapy.
A safe, nurturing space where children can heal, grow, and thrive through compassionate, child-centred psychotherapy.
I offer compassionate psychotherapy tailored to children's unique needs, creating a warm and supportive environment where young people feel truly heard and understood. Every child deserves a space where they can express themselves freely without judgement.
Specialising in play therapy, I help children express feelings and overcome challenges naturally, using their innate language of play. Located in Clondalkin, my practice provides a welcoming, safe haven for healing and emotional growth, where families find hope and support on their journey towards wellbeing.
Accredited by IAHIP and ICP with a Master's degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy, ensuring the highest standards of care.
Extensive professional experience working with children, adolescents, and families across diverse backgrounds and needs.
Dedicated to integrative approaches that respect each child's individuality, dignity, and innate capacity for growth.
My journey into child psychotherapy stems from a deep commitment to supporting young people through life's challenges. Working in the field of mental health since 2001, I've worked with children with special needs and their families since 2006. With over 16 years of dedicated clinical practice, I bring expertise, empathy, and genuine care to every session.
My integrative approach combines evidence-based techniques with a profound respect for each child's unique story, creating personalised pathways to emotional healing and resilience.
Humanistic psychotherapy places your child at the centre of their healing journey, honouring their experiences, emotions, and inherent worth. This compassionate approach creates a foundation of trust where genuine growth can flourish.
Empathy, respect, and unconditional positive regard guide every interaction.
Drawing from various therapeutic modalities to suit your child's needs.
Fostering self-awareness, resilience, and emotional intelligence.
Building lifelong skills in a nurturing, non-judgemental setting.
Play is a child's natural language—Emma uses it to help children communicate feelings they can't yet verbalise. Through carefully chosen toys, creative materials, and therapeutic techniques, children process complex emotions safely.
Research-supported play therapy techniques promote emotional expression, trauma recovery, and positive behavioural change in children of all ages.
We begin with a thorough assessment to understand your child's needs, family context, and therapeutic goals in a comfortable, welcoming environment.
Choose from in-person sessions in Clondalkin or convenient online options. Sessions are scheduled to fit your family's routine and your child's comfort.
Regular check-ins ensure therapy continues to meet your child's evolving needs, with adjustments made collaboratively throughout the journey.
Typically 45–50 minutes, adapted to your child's age and concentration span.
Usually weekly sessions, though this can be adjusted based on individual circumstances.
Sessions are confidential, with age-appropriate boundaries to protect your child.
I work closely with parents and caregivers, recognising that family involvement is crucial to a child's therapeutic progress and long-term wellbeing.
Receive guidance and practical strategies to reinforce therapeutic progress at home, empowering you to support your child's emotional development daily.
A collaborative, confidential environment where your concerns are heard, respected, and addressed with professional expertise and genuine compassion.
The work I do with families extends beyond the therapy room. When parents feel supported and equipped with understanding, children thrive in every aspect of their lives.
Witnessing children and young people rediscover their confidence, joy, and resilience is the heart of my work. Here's what some parents have shared.
You have done amazing work and everyone has commented on how happy she is. Thank you so much.
— Parent of a client, age 15
Even her teachers have said what a huge difference there has been in her since last year.
— Parent of a client, age 16
His anxiety is so much less now — he's like a different kid.
— Parent of a client, age 14
She is really enjoying her sessions and we can really see our daughter returning to us.
— Parent of a client, age 14
He has loved his Wednesday visits and is definitely going to miss you.
— Parent of a client, age 10
He's loved coming to his sessions. We hope he continues to look on the bright side of life.
— Parent of a client, age 7
He has loved your sessions and brings a lot of what he has learned into his future.
— Parent of a client
Some of the most meaningful feedback comes in handwritten notes and cards from the children themselves.
Thank you for making me more positive and more happy. You're the best.
— Client, age 10
Thank you for helping me sleep better and playing with me.
— Client, age 7
Thank you so much for everything.
— A young client, with a card full of drawings of the things they used to do together in sessions
Supporting children and families with expertise and dedication
Creating positive change across Clondalkin and beyond
Personalised care tailored to each unique individual
Emma works with children from early years through adolescence, tailoring her approach to each developmental stage with age-appropriate therapeutic techniques.
Therapy duration varies by individual needs. Some children benefit from short-term intervention (8–12 sessions), whilst others require longer-term support. This is discussed during the initial consultation.
Play therapy is highly adaptable and beneficial for various challenges including anxiety, trauma, behavioural issues, grief, and developmental concerns. A tailored assessment determines the best approach.
Contact Emma directly via phone or email (details below). She'll arrange an initial consultation to discuss your child's needs and answer any questions you may have.
Yes, online therapy sessions are available for families who prefer remote access or face scheduling challenges, ensuring flexibility without compromising quality of care.
The first session is gentle and exploratory. Emma creates a welcoming environment where your child can feel comfortable, with play materials available to ease any nervousness.
Taking the first step towards supporting your child's emotional wellbeing is an act of love and courage. Emma is here to guide your family with professionalism, warmth, and genuine care.
Located conveniently in Clondalkin with flexible scheduling options, including evening and weekend appointments. Begin your child's journey to emotional wellbeing with a trusted, caring professional today.
Clondalkin, Dublin
In-person & Online