pchei 2026
Annual Conference
May 25–27, 2026
Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone
Explore What’s Ahead at the PCHEI 2026 Annual Conference
The PCHEI Annual Conference is the central professional gathering for psychological counsellors working in higher education across Ireland. It offers space for reflection, connection, and shared learning on topics that shape practice and professional development.
What to Expect over the Three Days
This year’s programme highlights practice that goes beyond traditional talk therapy — including art-based methods, digital tools, body-based practices, and inclusive innovations that respond to student diversity and complexity.
Conference Programme
The PCHEI Annual Conference 2026 programme brings together keynote presentations, workshops, and shared learning across in-person and online formats.
Sessions explore creative approaches to counselling, including narrative work, art-based practices, and innovative methods for supporting student wellbeing.
What to Expect
- Keynote presentations from national and international contributors.
- Interactive workshops focused on applied practice and skill development.
- Opportunities for reflection, discussion, and shared learning.
- Dedicated time for professional connection and networking.
Full Programme
The detailed conference schedule, including session timings and speaker information, is available below.
Conference Contributors
The conference brings together a range of contributors sharing creative and practice-based approaches to counselling in higher education.
PCHEI 2026 Conference Tickets
Choose how you’d like to attend the PCHEI Annual Conference 2026.
Both in-person and online options are available, with access to creative, practice-focused sessions designed for professionals working in higher education.
Member Tickets
2-Day In-Person
€300
Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone
May 25–26, 2026
Attend two full days of the conference, including keynote presentations, workshops, and opportunities to connect with colleagues.
What’s Included
All sessions across Monday and Tuesday
Lunch and refreshments
Gala Dinner and networking
Up to 12 CPD credits
3-Day In-Person
€385.00
Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone
May 25–26, 2026
Full access to the complete conference experience, including all sessions, events, and the PCHEI AGM.
What’s Included
All conference sessions
Lunches and refreshments
Gala Dinner
PCHEI AGM
12 CPD credits
Online – Day 1 Only
€150.00
Monday, May 25
10:00 – 16:30 GMT+1
Join the conference remotely with access to a curated programme of keynote sessions and interactive workshops.
What’s Included
Live-streamed sessions
Interactive workshop participation
6 CPD credits
Non-Member Tickets
In-Person Conference
€350.00
+ Booking Fees
Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone
May 25–26, 2026
A two-day, in-person conference bringing together professionals to explore creative approaches to counselling in higher education.
What’s Included
Keynote presentations and interactive workshops
Hands-on creative sessions
Lunch and refreshments
Gala Dinner and networking evening
Up to 12 CPD credits
Programme Highlights
Lyric Therapy with Kevin O’Byrne
Podcast workshop (UL Counselling Service)
Fairy-tale writing with Dr Pearl Brock
Movement and art-based approaches
LEGO and expressive therapies
Creative writing with Simon Forsythe
Online Conference
€185.00
+ Booking Fees
Monday, May 25, 2026
10:00 – 16:30 GMT+1
A one-day online experience offering access to key sessions and interactive learning.
What’s Included
Live keynote and workshop sessions
Interactive participation opportunities
Access to selected conference content
6 CPD credits
Programme Highlights
Pauline Andrew – Holding the Hidden Self
Podcast workshop (UL Counselling Service)
Art therapy session with Rachel Karantayer
Fairy-tale writing with Dr Pearl Brock
Note: Accommodation is not included in the conference ticket.Further details, including booking information and delegate rates, are available in the conference brochure.
Request a Member Ticket
Complete the form below to select your preferred ticket option.
A member of the PCHEI team will be in touch with further details.
Contact Us
Venue
The conference will take place at the Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone, offering a comfortable setting for learning, reflection, and connection. The venue includes conference facilities, dining spaces, and access to accommodation on-site. Athlone is centrally located and accessible by road and rail. Further details on directions and accommodation rates are available in the
conference brochure.