ABOUT LOIS BRIDGES
Specialist Care Centre of the Year 2017
LOIS BRIDGES
LOIS BRIDGES TEAM
Lois Bridges is Ireland’s only dedicated Residential and Daypatient care facility solely for treatment of Anorexia, Bulimia and Binge Eating Disorders based in Dublin.
Care
our goal is to provide the highest quality of patient care
Experience
we offer highly experienced superior quality patient care
Professionalism
we have a team of professional experts for your care & treatment
Our Team of Experts
WHO WE ARE
At Lois Bridges our team consists of specialised practitioners in Eating Disorders from many fields:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Psychotherapy
- Medical
- Nursing
- Social Work
- Family Therapy
- Dietetic
Our wealth of knowledge and understanding in treating this illness is distinct upon arrival at Lois Bridges. Full recovery from an Eating Disorder is possible with the correct support and treatment. All we need from you is honesty and a willingness to open yourself to what recovery has to offer.
Our team are dedicated to crossing these difficult bridges with you.
OUR TEAM MEMBERS
Group & Individual Psychotherapist
‘Kathryn is a CORU registered dietitian and also has a MSc in Sports Nutrition. Kathryn is passionate about empowering individuals to make nutrition choices to support long-term health not forgetting to appreciate choosing tasty and satisfying foods which nurture the soul.
Kathryn has a special interest in hypothalamic amenorrhea and RED-S (relative energy deficiency in sport), helping clients to restore periods and balance food and activity. She is also a fertility-certified dietitian and FODMAP trained so can help both males and females optimise fertility through nutrition and IBS/ gut issues which can be so common in eating disorders/ disordered eating.’
Group & Individual Psychotherapist
Clinical Psychologist/Registered Family Therapist/Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and Consultant
Chair of International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals (iaedp) International Chapter Ireland
Zuzanna Gajowiec is a highly respected Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and Supervisor (CEDS-S) with a profound dedication to supporting individuals and families on their journey towards healing and recovery. As the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals (iaedp) Chapter Chair of Ireland, Zuzanna is at the forefront of advancing awareness and understanding of eating disorders in her community.
With over a decade of experience in the field, Zuzanna has worked tirelessly across all levels of care, from residential treatment centers to outpatient settings and private practice. Her comprehensive approach to recovery encompasses physical healing, body image issues, and the cultivation of deep connections within families.
Zuzanna’s mission in life is to combat shame and promote authentic self-expression, fostering an environment where all parts and needs are welcomed without judgment. She is a compassionate advocate for creating and supporting profound connections between individuals, particularly within family dynamics.
In addition to her clinical work, Zuzanna is actively involved in teaching, consulting, and supervising other therapists, sharing her wealth of knowledge and expertise with the next generation of professionals.
Counselling & Psychology
Anna holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and is a registered member of Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) and a member of Special Interest Group in Eating Disorders (SIGED).
Anna has completed extensive professional training earning certificates in Practitioner Skills for Eating Disorders, Nutritional Interventions for Eating Disorders and Practitioner Skills for Management of Obesity – Psychological Approaches. Anna is passionate about furthering her skills and is currently working towards obtaining a Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Psychology and a College Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Approaches in Interpersonal Practice
Anna works with clients experiencing challenging relationship with food, body and weight, providing CBT and Integrative Therapy in a non-judgemental space.
Counselling & Psychology
Anna holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and is a registered member of Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) and a member of Special Interest Group in Eating Disorders (SIGED).
Anna has completed extensive professional training earning certificates in Practitioner Skills for Eating Disorders, Nutritional Interventions for Eating Disorders and Practitioner Skills for Management of Obesity – Psychological Approaches. Anna is passionate about furthering her skills and is currently working towards obtaining a Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Psychology and a College Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Approaches in Interpersonal Practice
Anna works with clients experiencing challenging relationship with food, body and weight, providing CBT and Integrative Therapy in a non-judgemental space.
Counselling & Psychology
Group & Individual Psychotherapist
Tiggy Hudson is a humanistic and integrative psychotherapist who has been working directly with clients with eating disorders on a one to one basis for the past ten years
Prior to this, Tiggy dedicated her skills and knowledge to supporting families of those with an eating disorder – since 1995, when she helped to set up Bodywhys and is now an honoured and valued member of the Bodywhys Board of Management
In addition to obtaining a masters in psychotherapy, Tiggy has qualifications in art therapy, sand tray therapy and play therapy, and a wealth of experience working with adults as well as children and adolescents
Tiggy is an accredited member of the IATPT
Counselling & Psychology
Anna holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and is a registered member of Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) and a member of Special Interest Group in Eating Disorders (SIGED).
Anna has completed extensive professional training earning certificates in Practitioner Skills for Eating Disorders, Nutritional Interventions for Eating Disorders and Practitioner Skills for Management of Obesity – Psychological Approaches. Anna is passionate about furthering her skills and is currently working towards obtaining a Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Psychology and a College Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Approaches in Interpersonal Practice
Anna works with clients experiencing challenging relationship with food, body and weight, providing CBT and Integrative Therapy in a non-judgemental space.
Consultant dietitian
Counselling & Psychology
Group & Individual Psychotherapist
Tiggy Hudson is a humanistic and integrative psychotherapist who has been working directly with clients with eating disorders on a one to one basis for the past ten years
Prior to this, Tiggy dedicated her skills and knowledge to supporting families of those with an eating disorder – since 1995, when she helped to set up Bodywhys and is now an honoured and valued member of the Bodywhys Board of Management
In addition to obtaining a masters in psychotherapy, Tiggy has qualifications in art therapy, sand tray therapy and play therapy, and a wealth of experience working with adults as well as children and adolescents
Tiggy is an accredited member of the IATPT
Counselling & Psychology
Anna holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and is a registered member of Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) and a member of Special Interest Group in Eating Disorders (SIGED).
Anna has completed extensive professional training earning certificates in Practitioner Skills for Eating Disorders, Nutritional Interventions for Eating Disorders and Practitioner Skills for Management of Obesity – Psychological Approaches. Anna is passionate about furthering her skills and is currently working towards obtaining a Postgraduate Diploma in Nutritional Psychology and a College Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Approaches in Interpersonal Practice
Anna works with clients experiencing challenging relationship with food, body and weight, providing CBT and Integrative Therapy in a non-judgemental space.
Consultant dietitian
Director of Services/ Clinical Nurse Specialist
Alicia has worked in the field of Eating Disorders for 13 years with extensive knowledge and experience in treatment a range of eating disorders and supporting families. Alicia has completed the master practitioner program in eating disorders and additional training in MANTRA, SSCM and DBT/ RODBT.
Peer Support Worker
Peer support worker in mental health at Lois Bridges Eating Disorder Centre. William has experience of mental health services both as a service user and as a practitioner. William uses his lived experience of struggling with an eating disorder and his recovery journey to support others going through similar experiences. He is a trauma informed and person centered mental health professional who believes that human distress doesn’t need to be medicalised and that recovery is 100% possible for everyone.
Assistant Psychologist
As an Assistant Psychologist, one of my greatest priorities is interacting with clients empathetically while understanding and respecting their subjective experiences. Originally from South Africa, I came to Dublin to pursue my MSc. In Applied Psychology at Trinity College Dublin, from which I graduated with Distinction. I am a graduate member of the PSI, and my goal is to pursue a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology. I find great value in people’s stories and being with clients in the therapeutic space while finding relational depth. I endeavour despite being imperfect, I navigate my experiences with curiosity, and I continue to show up authentically, as I am. I have a strong passion for a strengths-based, empowering and collaborative approach within the therapeutic space where the needs and individuality. of the client are held at front of mind.
Our healthcare assistants are invaluable members of the Lois Bridges team, at times referred to as “your right-hand person” and are here to help ease your journey over the 12-weeks. All our HCAs have specialised training in Eating Disorders.
Dietitian
I am a CORU registered dietitian who is passionate about giving clients the confidence and knowledge to be able to choose the diet that best suits their health needs. My experience ranges from working in a busy hospital setting to working in the community. I look forward to working with you and bringing you the results that you deserve.
Carole has interests in:
- nutrition and mental health
- nutrition support for eating disorders
- cardiovascular health
- diabetes
- weight management
- gastrointestinal issues such as Coeliac disease, IBS and Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Counselling and Art Psychotherapist
Liam Plant – MIACAT, MIACP, MBAAT, M.A. A.th, Dip. Gest.th, Ad.dip Supervision (Counselling and Psychotherapy). Liam Plant is an Art Psychotherapist, Gestalt Therapist, and Counselling/ Psychotherapy Supervisor practicing in Dublin since 1985. He is an accredited member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, and a State Registered Art Therapist/ Psychotherapist with the U.K. Health and Care Professions Council. Liam was a founding member of the Irish Association of Creative Arts Therapists. Liam has worked with many client groups over the years including acute and long-term mental health service users, young persons, people with physical and intellectual disabilities and many counselling and psychotherapy students. In addition to his work with Lois Bridges Liam is currently working with individuals in private practice and with groups attending Cluain Mhuire Mental Health Day Services (St John of God Service). Liam is an integrative therapist, which means he uses a variety of approaches in his work. Whatever the approach that is being followed though, Liam views the therapeutic alliance with the client as being central and fundamental to the therapy process. Liam has also trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, which he practices and integrates into his therapy work.
Our Nurses are Registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI). All of our Nurses have a BSc in Mental Health and further Post Graduate education in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Counselling & Addictions and completed further training in Eating Disorders.
Our healthcare assistants are invaluable members of the Lois Bridges team, at times referred to as “your right-hand person” and are here to help ease your journey over the 12-weeks. All our HCAs have specialised training in Eating Disorders.
Dietitian
I am a CORU registered dietitian who is passionate about giving clients the confidence and knowledge to be able to choose the diet that best suits their health needs. My experience ranges from working in a busy hospital setting to working in the community. I look forward to working with you and bringing you the results that you deserve.
Carole has interests in:
- nutrition and mental health
- nutrition support for eating disorders
- cardiovascular health
- diabetes
- weight management
- gastrointestinal issues such as Coeliac disease, IBS and Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Counselling and Art Psychotherapist
Liam Plant – MIACAT, MIACP, MBAAT, M.A. A.th, Dip. Gest.th, Ad.dip Supervision (Counselling and Psychotherapy). Liam Plant is an Art Psychotherapist, Gestalt Therapist, and Counselling/ Psychotherapy Supervisor practicing in Dublin since 1985. He is an accredited member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, and a State Registered Art Therapist/ Psychotherapist with the U.K. Health and Care Professions Council. Liam was a founding member of the Irish Association of Creative Arts Therapists. Liam has worked with many client groups over the years including acute and long-term mental health service users, young persons, people with physical and intellectual disabilities and many counselling and psychotherapy students. In addition to his work with Lois Bridges Liam is currently working with individuals in private practice and with groups attending Cluain Mhuire Mental Health Day Services (St John of God Service). Liam is an integrative therapist, which means he uses a variety of approaches in his work. Whatever the approach that is being followed though, Liam views the therapeutic alliance with the client as being central and fundamental to the therapy process. Liam has also trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, which he practices and integrates into his therapy work.
Our Nurses are Registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI). All of our Nurses have a BSc in Mental Health and further Post Graduate education in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Counselling & Addictions and completed further training in Eating Disorders.
Our healthcare assistants are invaluable members of the Lois Bridges team, at times referred to as “your right-hand person” and are here to help ease your journey over the 12-weeks. All our HCAs have specialised training in Eating Disorders.
TESTIMONIALS
LOIS BRIDGES GALLERY
Lois Bridges is Ireland’s only dedicated Residential and Daypatient care facility solely for treatment of Anorexia, Bulimia and Binge Eating Disorders based in Dublin.
Click the images below to view
Recommended Resources
- The HSE information site on Eating Disorders.
- Provides information on Eating Disorders including many downloadable resources.
- Provides general information and a guide to getting help for people with an Eating Disorder.
- The Eating Disorders Association United Kingdom website. For general information on all aspects of Eating Disorders.
- A holistic and spiritual approach encouraging freedom from an obsession with food and weight.
- Information on family-based treatment (the Maudsley Approach) for people with anorexia and bulimia.
- Eating Disorder Association of Northern Ireland provided support and information about eating disorders.
- Families Empowered and Supporting Treatment of Eating Disorders is an international organisation of and for caregivers of people with an Eating Disorder.
LOIS BRIDGES CAREERS
Lois Bridges are currently recruiting experienced and newly qualified registered Psychiatric Nurses for our specialised centre in Dublin 13 for both full time and part time positions.
Lois Bridges is a private, voluntary, 7-bed residential facility specialising in the treatment of eating disorders for adults.
Be part of our growing, award-winning specialist team, call today!
Eligibility Criteria:
- Be currently registered with NMBI or eligible to register
- Must hold a degree or diploma in Psychiatric Nursing
- Have a patient centred approach to nursing care
- All New Graduates welcome to apply!
We offer RPNs:
- Temporary or Permanent Positions
- Days and Nights available / Flexibility offered
- Free Parking
- Free Meals while on shift
- Access to further training
- A great team to work with
In the news
February 4, 2020
“Galway parents forced to pay over €26,000 for daughter’s anorexia treatment”
She is now in the Lois Bridges facility in Dublin, a private treatment centre, after she deteriorated very rapidly last November. Her mother, Suzanne, told…
Read More
February 2, 2020
“Amazing transformation of anorexic survivor who nearly died”
Paula Walsh, whose BMI is at a dangerously low 13.9, has been refused funding for specialist treatment despite the lack of support available within the…
Read More
November 5, 2019
“Dublin Woman Amanda Lynch reveals how anorexia took over her life”
Amanda Lynch was diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa eight years ago. The Dublin womans’ condition escalated so quickly, it cost her her dream career…
Read More
August 21, 2018
“What lies beneath: The difficulty of facing up to an eating disorder”
It’s damaging to have too strict a definition of an eating disorder. So says Molly Twomey, a 22-year-old student who has blogged about her experience of…
Read More
December, 2017
“Specialist Care Centre of the Year Winners” – Irish Healthcare Awards, 2017
TWENTY-six-year-old Danny Keane, from Cork, was a world champion Irish dancer in his late teens when he first started to lose weight. I was 19 and I was…
Read More
November 23, 2014
“Fat Talk” is Causing Eating Disorders in our young people”
‘FAT talk’, ‘college stress’ and ‘social media’ are triggering eating disorders in young adults, say leading experts at Ireland’s only purpose-built residential…
Read More
April 22, 2014
“You can get your life back after anorexia”
Danny was known as a bigger dancer but didn’t want to lose weight. When he started intensifying his training and his healthy diet, he began losing weight…
Read More
August 18, 2010
“Treating causes, not Symptoms”
Aoife Connors speaks to Prof James Lock, Director of the Stanford Child and Adolescent Eating Disorder Programme, about the importance of residential…
Read More
February 23, 2010
“Lois Bridges- Treating the causes, not the symptoms”
LOIS BRIDGES will be the first dedicated residential treatment centre for eating disorders in Ireland when it opens its doors in Sutton, Dublin, today…
Read More
February 25, 2010
“True Life: My Dream is to one day win my 16 year battle with food”
Words tumble over each other as Nicola starts talking. Bright, articulate and aware, the 31-year-old describes the 16-year-long hell of her eating disorder…
Read More
Announcement
February 4, 2020
“Galway parents forced to pay over €26,000 for daughter’s anorexia treatment”
She is now in the Lois Bridges facility in Dublin, a private treatment centre, after she deteriorated very rapidly last November. Her mother, Suzanne, told…
Read More
All journeys must begin with a single step – Call us on (01) 839 6147
Contact Us
Whether you are a client, family member or professional – do not hesitate to contact Lios Bridges