Ireland – Mental Health

How is mental health generally viewed and talked about in Ireland?

Ireland has experienced a considerable cultural transformation in its approach to mental health over recent decades. Public awareness campaigns, prominent advocates speaking from personal experience, and broader media engagement have all contributed to bringing conversations about mental wellbeing into more open territory. Despite this, survey data continues to show that stigma — and particularly self-directed stigma — remains a genuine obstacle for many people living in the country.

The progress made does not mean stigma has disappeared. Feelings of shame and embarrassment still prevent a notable proportion of people from discussing mental health difficulties or reaching out for professional support. This is borne out by the data: while over half of survey respondents (53%) report having experienced mental health difficulties, more than a third (34%) chose not to seek treatment, with shame identified as the primary reason for not doing so.

There are, however, measurable signs of change. Since 2020, the proportion of people who believe that seeking treatment for a mental health difficulty is viewed by Irish society as a sign of personal failure has dropped by 16 percentage points — from 64% in 2020 to 48% in 2024. This represents real progress, even as the work of dismantling stigma clearly continues.

Ireland’s historical approach to mental illness has played a role in shaping present-day attitudes. Until the latter part of the twentieth century, people with mental illnesses were frequently placed in institutional settings where care was often inadequate. The legacy of that era persists in some quarters, with wariness around seeking help linked in part to lingering associations with institutionalisation.

For those arriving from countries where open conversations about therapy and mental health are relatively commonplace — such as the Netherlands, Australia, or Canada — Ireland may feel somewhat more guarded in its public discourse. At the same time, 66% of those who experienced mental health difficulties in 2024 did seek treatment — a 10% rise since 2023 — and 78% of respondents believe that people with mental health difficulties face less stigma and discrimination today than they did a decade ago. The overall trajectory is one of improvement.

Nearly half (45%) of those who delayed seeking mental health support cited “shame, embarrassment or fear of judgement” as a reason, and only 3 in 10 people are open about their experience of depression, with 43% sharing only with close friends and family. Newcomers should be aware of this cultural context, though it is unlikely to present a significant obstacle to accessing professional help for themselves.

What mental health services are publicly available in Ireland, and how does the system work?

Public mental health services across Ireland are delivered by the Health Service Executive (HSE), the national authority responsible for the country’s public health system. Mental health provision sits within a layered framework spanning primary, community, and specialist care — a structure broadly comparable to publicly funded systems in countries such as France or Germany, though with its own distinct referral pathways and capacity pressures.

The HSE Mental Health Division carries responsibility for the full spectrum of mental health services, from promoting positive mental wellbeing through to supporting those living with severe and complex mental health conditions. These services are designed to work in conjunction with primary care, acute hospitals, and services for older people.

For many people, the starting point is a visit to their family doctor (GP). GPs routinely see patients presenting with mental health concerns such as depression or anxiety, and where appropriate can refer to specialist professionals including psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, or addiction counsellors. This GP-first model will be recognisable to those accustomed to similar systems in Germany or France, where primary care acts as the entry point to specialist services.

Free counselling is available through the National Counselling Service (NCS) for adults aged over 18 who meet the relevant eligibility criteria. The HSE also operates the Counselling in Primary Care (CiPC) programme, which provides short-term counselling for adults experiencing mild-to-moderate difficulties, accessed through GP referral. Current eligibility criteria and referral pathways are detailed on the HSE mental health services page.

The overarching national policy framework for mental health in Ireland is “Sharing the Vision: A Mental Health Policy for Everyone”, which sets out the direction for the development of mental health services from 2020 to 2030. A second implementation plan, covering 2025 to 2027, has been launched by the Department of Health and outlines the intended outputs for this period.

Budget 2025 included an unprecedented €1.5 billion allocation for mental health services — the fifth consecutive year of increased funding and representing a 43.7% rise over the lifetime of the current government. Despite this investment, significant disparities remain between urban and rural areas. Dublin benefits from a range of specialist services, while smaller counties such as Leitrim or Longford often lack basic mental health infrastructure, resulting in extended waiting times, the need to travel for appointments, and delayed diagnoses.

The HSE Mental Health Division provides services by geographic area, delivered through inpatient centres and community-based teams. Community Mental Health Teams (CMHTs) form the primary point of specialist public care for adults and, depending on local availability, provide access to psychiatrists, psychologists, mental health nurses, social workers, and occupational therapists.

Is private therapy or counselling available in Ireland, and what does it cost?

Private therapy and counselling services are readily available throughout Ireland, with the widest choice found in larger cities such as Dublin, Cork, Galway, and Limerick. For many people — including those newly arrived in the country — private therapy offers a more timely route to support than the public system, where waiting times can be considerable.

As of 2025/2026, private online therapy sessions in Ireland generally cost between €60 and €100, with in-person appointments at city centre practices tending toward the higher end of this range. Specialist approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) — a well-established treatment for trauma — typically fall in the €90–€120 bracket, reflecting the additional training this modality requires. Fees change regularly, so it is always worth confirming current rates directly with the therapist or practice you are considering.

For those seeking more budget-friendly options, MyMind operates as a social enterprise and offers both standard and subsidised sessions through its charitable arm, with low-cost places available at €25–€35 per session. Its online platform provides access to therapists with a range of specialisations.

Tax relief is a meaningful way to reduce the net cost of therapy: Irish Revenue rules allow you to claim relief at your marginal rate — either 20% or 40% — on qualifying medical expenses, which include counselling and psychotherapy. Claims are made by submitting receipts from an accredited practitioner through Revenue’s MyAccount system. For anyone engaging in ongoing therapy, factoring in this relief from the outset can make a real difference to the overall cost.

Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) are another resource that is frequently overlooked. A substantial number of Irish employers provide free short-term counselling through EAP providers, typically making six sessions available to employees at no cost. These programmes are entirely confidential — your employer has no visibility of whether or how you have used them.

The principal professional accrediting bodies for therapists and counsellors in Ireland are the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) and the Irish Association of Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapy (IAHIP), both of which maintain searchable directories of accredited practitioners. Psychiatrists are registered with the Medical Council of Ireland. It is always advisable to verify a therapist’s registration before beginning treatment, and to consult official directories for up-to-date information on fees and accreditation standards.

Trainee therapist programmes are another cost-effective option, connecting clients with counsellors in training who offer reduced rates — typically €30–€40 per session — in exchange for supervised practice hours. This represents a substantial saving on standard fees while still providing care under professional supervision.

Are there English-speaking therapists or counselling services available in Ireland?

Ireland’s two official languages are Irish (Gaeilge) and English. In practice, English is the predominant language of everyday life, the healthcare system, and professional services throughout the country. The overwhelming majority of therapists, counsellors, and mental health professionals in Ireland practise primarily in English.

For most newcomers, locating an English-language therapist presents no particular difficulty — the more common challenge is finding availability at an accessible price. The key directories to consult when searching for a qualified therapist are:

• IACP Find a Therapist — The Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy’s directory enables searches by location, area of specialism, and session format (in-person or online).
• IAHIP Therapist Directory — The Irish Association of Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapy provides a comparable searchable directory of its accredited members.
• MyMind — A social enterprise offering multilingual therapy in Dublin, Cork, and Limerick, as well as online. MyMind stands out for its multilingual team, with therapists available in a range of languages beyond English, making it one of the most accessible options for those who prefer to work in their first language.
• Turn2Me — An HSE-funded online platform offering free scheduled counselling sessions in English for Irish residents.

For expats who specifically need support in a language other than English, MyMind is the most well-established starting point. Operating across Dublin, Cork, and Limerick as well as online and by telephone, MyMind provides a broad range of counselling and therapy options — including cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness, and psychoanalysis — and can help you identify which approach best suits your needs.

There is no single expat-dedicated mental health network in Ireland, but international online platforms such as BetterHelp and Talkspace are accessible from the country (see the online therapy section below), and a number of private therapists in larger cities specifically highlight experience working with international clients and the challenges that accompany relocation, cultural adjustment, and questions of identity.

What support organisations or mental health charities operate in Ireland?

Ireland has an extensive network of mental health charities and non-governmental organisations, many of which offer free or reduced-cost services that work alongside the public system. Mental Health Reform, a national coalition of 85 organisations, serves as a key advocacy body within the sector. The following are among the most important organisations for anyone newly arrived in Ireland to be aware of.

• Samaritans Ireland — Samaritans offers confidential, non-judgemental support around the clock. Call free on 116 123 or email [email protected]. As a globally recognised organisation with a strong presence in Ireland, Samaritans is one of the most familiar crisis and emotional support services for those arriving from abroad.
• Pieta House — Pieta House delivers free crisis intervention and suicide prevention services. Its helpline (1800 247 247) and text line (51 444) are available around the clock, and email support is offered Monday to Friday between 8am and 8pm.
• Aware — A national mental health charity with a focus on depression and bipolar disorder, also providing support to family members and friends. Their free helpline is 1800 80 48 48, and they run online support groups as well as educational programmes.
• Shine — Shine works to empower people experiencing mental ill-health and their families through support, information, and education. Free email counselling is available at [email protected].
• St Patrick’s Mental Health Services (SPMHS) — Ireland’s largest independent, not-for-profit mental health service provider, delivering multidisciplinary inpatient and homecare services across three approved centres, as well as community and outpatient care through its Dean Clinics.
• Jigsaw — Jigsaw provides free mental health support and services to young people aged 12–25, with 14 centres located across Ireland.
• Turn2Me — Turn2Me provides a three-tiered online approach to mental wellbeing, incorporating self-help programmes, peer support groups, and professional counselling. All services are free to use, and online counselling is also available at no charge to Irish citizens living abroad.
• Spunout / Text About It — Spunout’s “Text About It” service is a free, anonymous, 24/7 text messaging service offering support that ranges from a calming conversation to immediate crisis assistance. Text HELLO to 50808 to connect.
• Mental Health Reform — Ireland’s leading coalition of mental health organisations, advocating for stronger policy and improved services, and a valuable source of information on the state of services and the rights of service users.

Ireland also connects with international bodies in this space. The Mental Health Commission (MHC), Ireland’s independent statutory regulator, oversees the quality of mental health services and issues guidance informed by international standards. The HSE’s National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP) coordinates Ireland’s national suicide prevention strategy and maintains links with global partners including the International Association for Suicide Prevention.

What should expats do in a mental health crisis in Ireland?

If you or someone you know is facing an acute mental health emergency in Ireland — including an immediate risk of self-harm or suicide — the response pathways are broadly in line with those in other Western European countries. Emergency services, hospital-based psychiatric care, and round-the-clock crisis lines are all in place.

1. Call 999 or 112 — These are Ireland’s emergency services numbers, equivalent to 911 in North America or 000 in Australia. In an immediate mental health emergency, call 999 or 112 or proceed directly to your nearest hospital emergency department (A&E). Emergency departments have psychiatric liaison services on hand and are equipped to arrange emergency psychiatric assessments.
2. Contact Samaritans (116 123) — Samaritans provides round-the-clock confidential support for anyone experiencing distress or despair, including those at risk of suicide. You can call 116 123 free from any phone in Ireland, or reach them by email at [email protected].
3. Contact Pieta House (1800 247 247) — Pieta House specialises in crisis counselling and helps people in acute distress identify reasons to live. Their 24/7 freephone number is 1800 247 247 and their text line is 51 444.
4. Text About It (50808) — This free text service operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering support ranging from a calming exchange to urgent assistance for those in mental health or emotional crisis. Text HELLO to 50808 to begin.
5. Contact your GP — Outside of emergency hours, your GP can make an urgent referral to a Community Mental Health Team or arrange an emergency psychiatric review. GPs in Ireland are also in a position to arrange voluntary or involuntary admission to a psychiatric unit when this is clinically warranted.

All crisis helplines in Ireland operate in English, and Samaritans additionally offers email contact via [email protected]. Ireland’s crisis care model is primarily hospital-led for acute emergencies, with community follow-up through CMHTs — an approach comparable to that used in the UK and much of Northern Europe, rather than the dedicated mobile crisis team model found in some other countries. If you are accustomed to a different crisis response system, the essential message is straightforward: for any immediate risk, call 999 or 112 without delay.

Are online or remote therapy options accessible from Ireland?

Remote and online therapy has expanded substantially in Ireland since 2020, and residents can now choose from a range of Irish-based and international teletherapy platforms. For newcomers who have not yet established local connections, or for those living in rural areas where in-person options are limited, remote therapy can be a highly practical first port of call.

Several pathways to free or reduced-cost support exist within Ireland, many of which have broadened their online provision since 2020. The most established Irish-based online platforms include:

• Turn2Me — Funded by the HSE and philanthropic contributions, Turn2Me offers scheduled online counselling sessions with accredited therapists at no cost to Irish residents, with no means testing required. Sessions are typically 45 minutes in duration.
• MyMind — Offers both online and in-person appointments. MyMind does not operate a waiting list, meaning appointments are generally available at short notice — a significant advantage over many public and charitable services where demand outstrips capacity.

International platforms such as BetterHelp and Talkspace can be accessed from Ireland and used by residents. There are, however, a number of practical considerations worth bearing in mind. Therapists based outside Ireland — for instance, those registered in the United States or another jurisdiction — are not subject to Irish regulatory oversight, so independently verifying their qualifications and professional registration is advisable. International platforms typically charge in US dollars and may not be covered under Irish private health insurance policies. For those who prioritise continuity of care and clinical accountability within the Irish system, choosing an IACP- or IAHIP-accredited therapist delivering sessions online from within Ireland is generally the more straightforward option.

The HSE advocates a layered care model for digital mental health support, based on matching individuals with the most effective yet least intensive level of support first — beginning with health promotion, information, and self-help resources, before stepping up to person-to-person support and, if required, more intensive specialist services such as therapy. The HSE’s yourmentalhealth.ie resource offers free self-help tools, information, and signposting to services.

How do expats typically navigate health insurance for mental health treatment in Ireland?

Private health insurance operates alongside the public HSE system in Ireland, with the main insurers being VHI Healthcare, Laya Healthcare, and Irish Life Health. Mental health cover has improved markedly in recent years, though the scope of cover varies considerably between individual plans and providers.

When reviewing a policy, pay particular attention to the following elements:

• Outpatient mental health benefit — This covers consultations with a psychologist or psychiatrist at a private clinic. Many plans include a fixed number of covered sessions per year or a set financial allowance. As of 2025, verify current limits directly with your insurer, as these change regularly.
• Inpatient psychiatric cover — Most comprehensive plans include cover for admission to an approved psychiatric facility, such as St Patrick’s Mental Health Services. Confirm whether your plan covers a private or semi-private room and whether pre-authorisation is required.
• Day patient and outpatient programmes — Certain plans extend cover to structured day programmes for conditions including eating disorders, addiction, or anxiety disorders.
• Waiting periods — Irish health insurance policies may apply waiting periods to mental health benefits, particularly in relation to pre-existing conditions. It is important to clarify these before taking out a policy.

Ireland does not currently have a specific mental health parity law requiring insurers to provide equivalent cover for mental and physical health conditions in the way that the US Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act does. However, the Health Insurance Authority (HIA) — Ireland’s independent statutory regulator for the private health insurance market — provides a free comparison tool at hia.ie that allows plans to be compared on the basis of their mental health cover. Always read the policy schedule in full and contact the insurer directly to confirm what mental health treatments are included before committing.

If you are relocating to Ireland for employment purposes, it is worth asking whether your employer offers a Group Health Insurance scheme, which often provides more comprehensive mental health benefits than equivalent individual plans. Employee Assistance Programmes are also a frequently underused resource: a large number of Irish employers make free short-term counselling available through EAP providers, typically offering employees six sessions at no cost, with full confidentiality maintained throughout.

Frequently asked questions

Can I access public mental health services in Ireland as an expat?

Yes. Eligibility for HSE public health services, including mental health services, is based on ordinary residency in Ireland — not nationality. If you are ordinarily resident in Ireland (i.e. living here and intending to do so for at least one year), you are entitled to access public health services. Your entitlement may be free or at a reduced cost depending on whether you hold a Medical Card or a GP Visit Card. Check citizensinformation.ie for current eligibility rules.

How long are waiting times for public mental health services?

Waiting times for specialist public mental health services in Ireland can be substantial, particularly in rural areas and for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). For adult community mental health teams, waits of several months are not uncommon for non-urgent cases, as of 2025. The HSE is actively working to reduce these times as part of its 2025 National Service Plan, but current waiting times vary widely by location and condition. Your GP can advise on local waiting times and can refer you to the Counselling in Primary Care (CiPC) programme for shorter-term needs. Check hse.ie for the latest information.

Is there a language barrier if I don’t speak fluent English?

Ireland’s healthcare system operates primarily in English. If you need mental health support in another language, MyMind (mymind.org) is the most well-established option, with a multilingual team of therapists available in several languages. International online platforms such as BetterHelp also connect users with therapists in many languages. In an emergency, the 999/112 operator can connect you with an interpreter service if needed.

Is there a stigma about seeking therapy in Ireland that might affect me socially?

While attitudes toward mental health are continuing to improve, stigma remains a barrier for some people. As a newcomer, however, you are unlikely to face direct social pressure against seeking therapy — particularly in urban areas and internationally diverse workplaces. The stigma that persists tends to be more self-directed than externally imposed, and many people find that registering with a GP and enquiring about counselling options is a straightforward, judgement-free experience in practice.

What is the quickest way to access a counsellor in Ireland without a long wait?

The fastest routes to counselling in Ireland are: (1) booking privately through an IACP-accredited therapist (find one at iacp.ie); (2) using MyMind (mymind.org), which does not operate a waiting list; or (3) checking whether your employer offers an Employee Assistance Programme with free counselling sessions. Free services such as Turn2Me operate online and are available without a waiting list for certain session types.

What should I do if I have a mental health emergency at night or on a weekend?

Call 999 or 112 for an immediate emergency, or go directly to your nearest hospital emergency department (A&E), which will have psychiatric liaison services available. For emotional support rather than a medical emergency, Samaritans (116 123) and Pieta House (1800 247 247) are both available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, free of charge. Text About It (text HELLO to 50808) is also available at all hours.

Can I claim tax relief on private therapy costs in Ireland?

Under Irish Revenue rules, you can claim tax relief at your marginal rate (20% or 40%) on medical expenses, including counselling and psychotherapy, by submitting receipts from an accredited practitioner through Revenue’s MyAccount system. This applies to sessions with therapists who hold recognised accreditation, such as IACP or IAHIP. Check revenue.ie for the current rules and qualifying conditions.

Are there any organisations in Ireland that specifically support expats’ mental health?

There is no single organisation dedicated exclusively to expat mental health in Ireland. However, MyMind’s multilingual team, international online platforms accessible from Ireland, and private therapists who highlight cross-cultural experience in their profiles are all useful starting points. Some embassy and consulate networks also maintain lists of recommended professionals. The IACP therapist directory at iacp.ie allows you to filter by language and specialism, making it easier to find a therapist with experience in areas such as relocation stress, cultural adjustment, or identity.