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Iris Haugh Moloney

Practice Based Play Therapist and Creative Arts Therapist PGDIP Play Therapy, BSc, RN Intellectual Disabilities.

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I work closely with your child to create a safe, nurturing space where trust can flourish—empowering them to share, explore, and express their emotions freely, without fear of judgment or expectation. With a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing specialising in Intellectual Disabilities and over a decade of experience supporting children with mild to severe challenging behaviors, I have a deep understanding of the emotional and developmental needs of children with autism and other developmental differences. This expertise shapes my approach to play therapy, enabling me to design personalized interventions that meet each child's unique needs and support their growth in a way that feels natural and meaningful.

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About Helping Hands Play Therapy

My practice is grounded in evidence-based approaches designed to support children on their journey of growth and self-discovery. Through a strong therapeutic relationship, I help children navigate challenging emotions while fostering a deeper sense of self. Together, we work to unlock healing, resilience, and meaningful connections in your child's unique story.

Every session is built on trust, creating a safe and welcoming space where children feel empowered to express themselves freely and without judgment. I offer a warm and supportive environment where children and families can access personalised care.

Using play, creative expression, and proven therapeutic techniques, I tailor each session to meet the individual needs of the child. Whether facing anxiety, trauma, or emotional challenges, my goal is to help children build confidence, emotional awareness, and the skills to navigate life’s ups and downs.

If you’re seeking compassionate, child-centered therapy, I am here to support your family every step of the way.

Membership Organization

I am a member of Play Therapy Ireland, affiliated with Play Therapy International.
While play therapy is not regulated in Ireland, I am listed on the Play Therapy UK accredited register, which is monitored by the Professional Standards Authority

My Qualifications

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Practice-Based Play Therapy — University of Galway & Academy of Play and Child Psychotherapy

  • Postgraduate Certificate in Practice-Based Play Therapy — University of Galway & Academy of Play and Child Psychotherapy

  • Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Intellectual Disability Nursing

  • Do I need a referral?
    No. I have an open referral system which means that anybody can make a referral for Play Therapy including parents, guardians or professionals.
  • What is your intake protocol – how soon can I start?
    First step is to contact me via email or phone. I will then forward information about the service, relevant paperwork (parental consent, contract) which you then fill out and send back to me. I will contact you to schedule a Parent Interview Appointment. I will send a payment link for this appointment. In order to confirm this appointment, payment must be paid in advance. (Please note cancellation policy applies as detailed in email). This Parent Interview Appointment is for Parents only (no children attend) and will be scheduled for approximately 60 mins. Both parents should attend but if not possible, can be scheduled either in person or via Zoom (and will be charged as a separate meeting). Please note parental consent is required from both parents (unless full guardianship has been court appointed). When an appointment slot to start therapy has been agreed with parents/ guardians, an email will be sent to outline additional information regarding how to prepare your child for starting therapy, how progress is reviewed, scheduling and confidentiality. Looking forward to meeting you!
  • What is the age range for your Play Therapy Service?
    I currently work with children between 4-13 years of age.
  • How often are sessions?
    Sessions are once a week, on same day, at the same time as agreed during parent intake consultations. This consistency and commitment is crucial for the therapeutic process. This is your child’s Special Time and is honoured, held and respected by all parties.
  • How long is each session?
    Each session is 45 mins long. Please note parental consultations are scheduled separately without children present.
  • How many sessions will my child need?
    Each child is different in their personality, developmental stage, trust building capacity, previous experiences and current coping abilities. They progress at their own pace. All children naturally take time to build trust in the therapeutic space before opening up and this cannot be rushed or forced. I ask for an initial commitment of 12 sessions (this will be agreed with the parent/career at Initial Intake Consultation). Children may need further session after the initial 12 sessions. Working closely with parents, therapy is reviewed regularly at interim meetings.
  • How often do you meet with parents during the Play
    In order to review the child's progress at home and in school as well as discuss possible strategies that may support your child's progress, regular review meetings between parents and the therapist are scheduled every 8 to 10 sessions without the child. Parents/ guardians are encouraged to attend these appointments in person, if at all possible, but phone calls during the session time are possible instead if childcare is an issue. Please note these sessions (including phone calls) are charged at €40.
  • Claiming Health Insurance?
    Many health insurance plans cover Play Therapy under ‘child counselling'. For details, please check with your individual health insurance provider for your specific plan to see if child counselling is covered. I will provide invoice for all sessions attended. Please note that if covered, you will need to pay for play therapy in full and then furnish receipts to your insurance company for reimbursement. Alternatively you may be able to claim therapy cost on Med 1 form or online on www.revenue.ie
  • What is the best way to explain to my child that they are going to attend play therapy ?
    Be honest and use clear open, age appropriate language. Explain to your child that you have found someone to help them with difficult feelings they may be having and that they will be doing that through playing, using arts and crafts, music and games! I also have an information sheet that you can share with your child.
  • Are you registered with CORU?
    As of now, Play Therapy in Ireland is not yet regulated by CORU. Rest assured, however, I am registered and certified with Play Therapy Ireland, Play Therapy International, and recognized by the Professional Standards Authority in the UK. I am an APAC (Academy of Play and Child Psychotherapy) trained therapist, accredited by Play Therapy International/UK and the IBECPT (International Board of Examiners of Certified Play Therapists).
  • Are you insured? Garda Vetted?
    Yes, fully insured by OBF Insurance Group Ltd and fully Garda Vetted.
  • Are sessions confidential?
    Yes, sessions are completely confidential. If a therapist has a concern about a child's welfare, it is their professional duty to report the concern to the Deputy Liaison Person (DLP) or Duty Social Worker. They will take appropriate measures to deal with the concern; including contacting the Garda Siochana or TUSLA, where required.
  • Do you require both Parents sign to Consent forms?
    This play therapy service follows best practice guidelines with regards to parental consent in order to advocate effectively for the child. In line with the Children & Family Relationship Act of 2015, both parents are required to sign consent forms for play therapy. I acknowledge and understand that family situations can be complex and difficult and so I take the utmost care to ensure that all participants in my service are working within the correct and appropriate legal framework. Parental consent is compulsory for accessing this play therapy service.
  • Do you provide Reports?
    Please note: I do not provide Court Reports or School Reports.
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085 767 1830

helpinghandsplaytherapy@outlook.ie

Private Play Space
Quilty, Co. Clare
Eircode: V95 W8H7

© 2025 by Helping Hands Play Therapy

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