hello@athenaherd.org
Orla was drawn to horses at a young age, always feeling comforted in their presence, and taking any opportunity that she could to be around them. Today, she integrates that childhood passion with her work as a Psychotherapist, combining CBT, ACT, and EMDR with equine assisted therapy. Orla believes that horses offer a regulating presence that supports clients in identifying their values, reconnecting with their bodies, building self-trust, and exploring patterns that may feel stuck.
Qualifications
- Level 2 and 4 Diploma in Equine Facilitated Services
- EMDR Training
- PG Diploma High Intensity CBT
- PG Cert Low Intensity CBT Interventions
- MSc Criminology & Criminal Justice
- BA (Hons) Classical Studies and Philosophy
Memberships
- EMDR Ireland
- BABCP
Experience
Orla has worked for many years within NHS and private services providing CBT to adults. She currently works within an eating disorder service alongside running her private practice, Cogs Psychotherapy.
She works primarily with adults who experience eating distress and with trauma. She has a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent clients. Having been late-diagnosed with ADHD herself, she brings her experience and understanding around neurodivergence into her work.
Orla finds that horses and ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy) blend particularly well with neurodivergent clients, due to the experiential, movement-oriented and values-based nature of both approaches.
Her practice is trauma-informed and compassion-focused. She works with the understanding that behaviour is communication (both in humans and horses) and finds ways to support clients to develop a more compassionate understanding of their experiences.
Orla values ethical, horse-centred practice and is committed to ensuring the wellbeing of both clients and horses within therapeutic spaces.
