Business Details
14 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Trusted Mental Health Counselling Services in Derry
Established in March 2012, S T E P S is a user-led community-based mental health organisation dedicated to supporting individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and prescription drug dependency. Our registered counsellors provide tailored one-to-one sessions, group therapy, and structured relaxation techniques, with a focus on building emotional resilience and self-sufficiency. Operating across Derry, Strabane, Omagh, and Letterkenny, we combine over 30 years of collective experience with a holistic approach to mental well-being.Our services include 24-hour telephone support, educational resources, and outreach initiatives designed to empower individuals through personalised recovery plans. We prioritise accessibility, confidentiality, and inclusivity, fostering independence while addressing stigma through community engagement and suicide prevention initiatives.
Services
Anxiety Counselling
Drug Withdrawal Support
Group Therapy
Panic Attack Management
PTSD Treatment
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of combined experience in mental health counselling
- Our services are tailored to individual recovery journeys and budgets
- 24-hour telephone support for crisis situations
- Registered counsellors specialising in anxiety and addiction therapies
- Community-led approach with peer support integration
What people say
Compassionate staff
Effective therapy methods
Accessible crisis support
Personalised approach
Safe environment
Services
Anxiety Counselling
Specialised therapy for anxiety disorders including panic attacks and social anxiety. Our counsellors use evidence-based techniques to develop coping strategies tailored to individual needs. Sessions combine relaxation methods with cognitive behavioural approaches to address both symptoms and root causes.
Drug Withdrawal Support
Comprehensive support for tranquilliser and prescription drug withdrawal. We provide structured programmes combining medical guidance with psychological support to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. Our approach focuses on long-term recovery and preventing relapse through ongoing therapy sessions.
Group Therapy
Facilitated group sessions offering shared experiences and collective healing. Participants benefit from structured discussions and therapeutic activities under professional supervision. This cost-effective option fosters community support while maintaining individual confidentiality.
PTSD Treatment
Specialised interventions for post-traumatic stress disorder using trauma-informed care principles. Our counsellors employ EMDR techniques and narrative therapy to process traumatic memories safely. Programmes include crisis management strategies and emotional regulation training.
24-Hour Support
Round-the-clock telephone assistance for mental health emergencies. Trained operators provide immediate support and triage for urgent situations. This service ensures continuous access to professional guidance during critical moments outside regular office hours.
People
Gerry McKinney
Chairperson & Counsellor
Founder of S T E P S with over 30 years' experience in mental health counselling. Provides clinical supervision and direct therapy sessions. Specialises in trauma recovery and addiction support, maintaining regular professional development.
Questions
What mental health issues do you specialise in?
We specialise in anxiety disorders, PTSD, prescription drug addiction, panic attacks, and depression through tailored counselling programmes.
Do you offer emergency mental health support?
Yes, our 24-hour helpline provides immediate assistance for mental health crises and urgent situations.
Are your counsellors qualified?
All our counsellors are registered professionals with specialist training in addiction recovery and trauma-informed therapy techniques.
What areas do you serve?
We provide services across Derry/Londonderry, Strabane, Omagh, Letterkenny, and surrounding communities in Northern Ireland.
How long are counselling sessions?
Session durations vary based on individual needs, typically ranging from 60-90 minutes during our scheduled evening appointments.
Can I self-refer to your services?
Yes, we accept both GP referrals and self-referrals for all our mental health support programmes.