ciaran kilfeather

I am a final-year trainee Integrative Psychotherapist at the University of Derby and a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). My professional path has been shaped by a deep interest in understanding human experience and the processes that lead to growth, healing, and resilience. I hold both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in psychology, which provided me with a strong theoretical foundation in human behaviour, emotional regulation, and mental health. This academic grounding, combined with my practical work, naturally evolved into a passion for integrative psychotherapy — an approach that honours the complexity and individuality of every person.

Over the past several years, I have developed clinical and professional experience in a range of therapeutic and support settings. I have worked for over two years in psychotherapy, supporting clients with issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem challenges. In addition, I have four years’ experience working with individuals on the autism spectrum, which has deeply informed my ability to meet clients with patience, openness, and genuine respect for difference. These experiences have strengthened my appreciation for the power of empathy, curiosity, and attuned communication in building meaningful therapeutic relationships.

Alongside my professional training, my personal experiences have also shaped how I work. Travel has played a significant role in broadening my worldview and deepening my understanding of the many ways people find meaning, connection, and strength across different cultures and contexts. These experiences have helped me cultivate a holistic and open-minded perspective that I bring to my therapeutic practice. I also draw on my own experiences of navigating life’s challenges, which have given me a grounded empathy and a sincere respect for the courage it takes to engage in the therapeutic process.

Outside of my professional work, I have a strong connection to activities that promote presence, discipline, and balance — including surfing, jiu-jitsu, climbing, and mountain biking. These practices continually remind me of the importance of mindfulness, adaptability, and being attuned to both body and mind. They help me stay grounded and reflective, qualities I bring into the therapeutic space.

At the heart of my practice is the belief that every individual has the capacity for change, healing, and growth when supported in the right environment. I aim to create a therapeutic relationship built on authenticity, empathy, and collaboration — one that provides clients with the safety and trust to explore their experiences and discover new possibilities. I am committed to ongoing professional and personal development, continuing to expand my understanding of trauma-informed, mindfulness-based, and relational approaches. My goal is to offer therapy that is both evidence-based and deeply human, supporting clients as they move toward greater self-awareness, resilience, and a more fulfilling sense of self and life.