Business Details
14 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Community Mental Health Support in Derry
At S T E P S, we have been providing professional mental health support for over 30 years, operating as a user-led community-based organisation in Derry/Londonderry. Our team of registered counsellors specialises in addressing anxiety disorders, prescription drug withdrawal, panic attacks, depression, PTSD, and related conditions through tailored therapeutic approaches. We offer one-to-one counselling sessions, group therapy, and structured self-help programmes designed to build emotional resilience and personal development. Our services cater to individuals in Londonderry, Strabane, Omagh, Letterkenny, and surrounding areas, with flexible appointment planning to suit client requirements. Founded in March 2012 by Gerry McKinney, who brings 30+ years of experience in mental health, we maintain a strong focus on equality, diversity, and empowerment.Our holistic approach combines relaxation techniques, audio education, and 24-hour telephone support to help clients implement coping strategies aligned with their personal recovery plans. We prioritise confidentiality and work collaboratively with clients to create individualised action plans that address specific mental health challenges. Our management committee includes individuals with lived experience of mental health difficulties, ensuring our services remain grounded in practical understanding and recovery-focused guidance. We actively promote community-based suicide prevention initiatives and provide outreach services to enhance accessibility. With evening hours available on multiple weekdays, we aim to accommodate diverse schedules while maintaining a safe, inclusive environment for all clients.
Services
Counselling
Self-Help Programmes
Group Therapy
Prescription Drug Withdrawal Support
Anxiety Management
Panic Attack Treatment
Depression Counselling
PTSD Therapy
Relaxation Techniques
24-Hour Telephone Support
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of combined experience in mental health counselling
- Our services are tailored to individual recovery plans and budgets
- 24-hour telephone support available for urgent needs
- Management committee includes individuals with lived mental health experience
- Holistic approach combining therapy, education, and community support
What people say
Life-changing support
Understanding counsellors
24-hour availability
Tailored treatment plans
Safe environment
Services
Counselling
Professional one-to-one counselling sessions addressing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and prescription drug withdrawal. Our registered counsellors create tailored treatment plans using evidence-based techniques. Sessions combine emotional support with practical coping strategies to improve mental wellbeing.
Self-Help Programmes
Structured self-help programmes focusing on emotional resilience and personal development. Includes relaxation techniques, audio education, and group therapy. Designed to empower individuals through holistic approaches to mental health recovery.
24-Hour Support
Confidential telephone support available round-the-clock for urgent mental health needs. Provides immediate assistance during crises and connects callers with appropriate resources. Staffed by trained professionals with lived experience.
People
Gerry McKinney
Chairperson and Counsellor
Founder of S T E P S with 30+ years' experience in mental health. Provides regular supervised counselling sessions. Specialises in community-based recovery programmes and suicide prevention initiatives.
Questions
What mental health services do you offer?
We provide counselling for anxiety, depression, PTSD, prescription drug withdrawal, and panic attacks. Our services include one-to-one sessions, group therapy, and self-help programmes with 24-hour telephone support.
Are your counsellors qualified?
All our counsellors are registered professionals with specialist training in mental health. Our team includes individuals with lived experience of mental health difficulties.
What areas do you cover?
We serve clients in Derry/Londonderry, Strabane, Omagh, Letterkenny, and surrounding areas. Outreach services are available for those with accessibility challenges.
What are your opening hours?
Counselling sessions are available Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 2pm to 10pm. Our 24-hour telephone support service operates outside these hours for urgent needs.
How much do services cost?
As a community-based organisation, we work with clients to create affordable treatment plans. Specific pricing details can be discussed during initial consultations.
Can I self-refer?
Yes, we welcome both GP referrals and self-referrals. Contact us directly to arrange your initial assessment with one of our counsellors.