Psychologists in Primary Schools

Sample of Participating Schools



"PIPS is an extremely valuable service from which we have benefited hugely. We have a wonderful cohort of children in our school and that 6 children get such high quality help in the safe space provided by Laura means so much. Their weekly session is something that the children so look forward to and it gives them tools for resilience and self esteem building that they so need. We are very grateful for the time that Laura gives us and for the support that she gives our children" - Principal Ms Tonya Hanly, Our Lady of Lourdes National School Inchicore, Dublin D.8.



“PIPS therapists have fully engaged with parents, children and school management. The therapists have been child focused at all times and have been able to build up exceptionally good connections with our children. Would highly recommend.” - Principal Mr John Benson, Scoil Aonghusa, Balrothery, D.24.



"Our school found the level of support and expertise provided by PIPs fantastic. The children who attended sessions really benefited from it. I would highly recommend PIPs as a service." - Principal Ms Alma Quinn, St. Louise De Marillac Primary School, Ballyfermot, D.10.



“PIPS has been an invaluable addition to our school and is extremely highly regarded by parents, pupils & teachers.” - Principal Mr Ger Murphy, St Olaf’s National School, Ballaly Drive, D.16.


Information for Parents


For parents whose child attends a school offering the PIPS service:


If you have a concern about your child, please contact the Assistant Psychologist in your school. You can make contact directly through the school. You can refer your child for many different reasons:

  • Problems with their behaviour, like aggression, defiance, hyperactivity and inattention that affects academic achievement and/ or relationships with parents, teachers and peers.
  • Academic problems in the classroom; they may need an assessment to see if learning supports are required in the classroom.
  • Children who show signs of anxiety, depression or social withdrawal.
  • Family problems like abuse, bereavement or death, bullying, family breakdown, trauma or domestic violence.

Your child may be referred to PIPS by their teacher. If you get a letter or phone call from an Assistant Psychologist, don’t worry! You can meet with the Assistant Psychologist and talk to them about your child, what they need and what you want for them. You can also ask any questions you have.


When you meet the Assistant Psychologist, they will ask you some questions about your child and what they are like at home. They may also ask you to fill in some questionnaires about your child’s behaviour. If you would like your child to receive intervention from PIPS, you will be asked to sign a consent form. This will allow the Assistant Psychologist to work with your child.


Once the consent form has been signed, PIPS can provide your child with the following services, depending on their needs:

  • Behavioural and/ or academic assessments can be carried out, followed by a written psychological report.
  • One-to-one support sessions on a weekly basis during school hours.
  • An individualised behavioural intervention that will help reduce difficult or problematic behaviours at home and at school.

Parents will be told about their child’s progress and how they are getting on. If parents need to meet with the Assistant Psychologist again, they are more than welcome to come in and talk to them about how things are going at home. Any information about your child will be kept confidential at all times.


For parents whose child does not attend a school offering the PIPS service:

Please see our Resources page for further information on where to seek more information, or feel free to contact us at ian@pips.ie