^{Leo Muckley at awards ceremony IACP 10th Annual conference}

Glengarriff-based researcher Leo Muckley has been celebrated by the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) at its 10th Annual Conference, receiving the prestigious Research Excellence Award for his groundbreaking study on suicide.

His research, titled “Pluralistic Psychotherapists’ and Counsellors’ Experiences of Working with Actively Suicidal Clients”, delves into the complex challenges and nuanced therapeutic approaches required when working with individuals experiencing acute suicidal ideation. Muckley, whose work is deeply personal and driven by a commitment to reducing the stigma around suicide, expressed that he was “overjoyed and deeply touched” by the recognition, emphasizing that his study aims to provide meaningful insights for both practitioners and those directly impacted by the tragedy of suicide.

Leo said
‘From the beginning, my hope was to create new knowledge that could offer something of use, not only to practitioners working with suicidal clients, but also to individuals who are directly impacted by suicide. It is a profound honour to contribute to addressing the stigma that surrounds suicide, both through my research and in my work with clients, and to have this recognised. 

Suicide is often misunderstood, ‘and, too frequently, approached in isolation as a risk to be managed, particularly from a medical model, leading to fear and lives lost. Yet, psychotherapists and counsellors hold a unique position. We have the capacity to offer something meaningful and potentially transformative when it comes to people challenged by suicide, something that, to date, remains under-researched.

Research is a critical aspect of our profession as it can guide us in providing evidence-informed best practice through a lens of human connection. I am incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to explore this area further through my PhD. One death by suicide is one too many, and anything that helps reduce the fear surrounding suicide is a vital step toward true prevention.’

The award is a testament to the courage of his research participants, ‘to those who face suicidal thoughts daily and to those no longer with us.’

During the conference, IACP cathaoirleach Jade Lawless highlighted the significance of Muckley’s research, noting that his pluralistic approach offers a safe, collaborative, and evidence-based framework that benefits both clients and therapists. The award not only acknowledges his innovative contributions to suicide research but also underscores the importance of integrating comprehensive, person-centred strategies within therapeutic practice.

As mental health continues to be a critical public concern, Muckley’s work serves as a beacon of hope, guiding professionals toward improved methods for intervention and care in moments of crisis