How can a person be referred to Pieta House?
Anyone can make a referral – a parent, a partner, a school counsellor, a friend, or you could be ringing up for yourself. You do not need a doctor’s referral, and you do not need to be linked in with a psychiatrist.
How long is the waiting list for an appointment?
At Pieta House we endeavour to make an appointment as soon as possible - our waiting time is rarely over a week. But sometimes we are busier than usual, and we ask that you be patient with us. However we have two emergency slots every day for people who are actively suicidal. For people in acute crisis – there is no waiting list
How much does it cost?
Treatment at Pieta House is completely free of charge, but we gladly accept donations.
How long does therapy take?
It is entirely at the pace of the individual but usually treatment takes between four to six weeks.
Does the treatment require medication?
We do not prescribe medication; we work with you, your family, your doctor and any other teams working to improve your well-being. We try to add to the support you are currently being given.
How are the sessions conducted?
First of all, the Client is assessed and assigned to a therapist most suited to their needs. All sessions run on a one-to-one basis. Thus begins an intensive input of therapy. The Counsellor starts by building up a rapport and a relationship with the client and encourages the person to agree to attend the centre frequently.
During the next four to six weeks the client will work closely with the therapist who will endeavour to lift their depression, remove negative, despairing thoughts and exchange reasons for dying with reasons for living.
What can the Family do?
The family is our home link with the distressed individual – we see the family as the most important part of ongoing therapy. They are at the frontline of their loved one's distress. The family needs to be educated firstly so that they can help, but also to remove their own fear. We have found that family members become paralysed with fear when they discover that their loved one is suffering from severe depression and suicidal ideation. By teaching them and explaining to them about depression, we aim to demystify the problem and empower them to help.
The family also needs ongoing support and help. As a result, if it is wanted, the family will be assigned to a Support Therapist. They will provide support on a weekly basis and be available by telephone on a daily basis during the entire time of the client’s recovery. Family Support is also provided free of charge.
What happens after attending Pieta House?
After your time in Pieta House comes to an end, we will be happy to advise you what to do then. You might need ongoing support with another counselling centre, or you may be well enough equipped with the tools we teach you to cope in difficult situations. Either way, you will have our full support and advice in continuing your journey of recovery.
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