Our History
Southwest Counselling Centre Ltd (incorporating Killarney Counselling Centre) was established in Oct 1994
as an initiative of the Franciscan Friary under the direction of Br. Niall O’Connell,
who saw a need for counselling services in the local community.
The service began in one room in the friary but within three years had developed to such an
extent that a purpose –built centre was erected on land given on lease by the Franciscan community,
thus in Oct 1997, a staff team of seven moved into the new centre. In 2003 a further extension to the centre was completed.
This extension incorporated 3 additional counselling rooms, one family room, an office and staff room.
In Oct 2003 the centre changed its name to Southwest Counselling Centre to reflect more accurately the extent of services being provided now and in the future.
This name change was launched by Mary Coughlan, Minister for Social & Family Affairs.
In Dec 2003, President Mary McAleese officially opened the new extension.
The service has continued to provide throughout this time, a reduced cost counselling service with qualified counsellors
in a confidential caring environment.
Securing sustainable funding remains a challenge for the Centre.
Our Board of Management are committed to lobbying government departments and other funding sources
in order to ensure the long-term survival of the Southwest Counselling Centre.