About
Fastnet Guidance
A calm, professional space for non-clinical peer support. Bridging evidence-based psychology with the grounding influence of the West Cork coast, we offer guidance for adults navigating life's transitions, overthinking, and periods of being 'stuck'.
What we do
At Fastnet Guidance, we understand that life can sometimes feel unpredictable and overwhelming. Through professional peer support, we help clients navigate life’s transitions, untangle overthinking, and build the resilience needed to face what comes next with confidence.
Our Approach
Our work is grounded, professional, and entirely centered on your unique journey. As a Psychology Graduate (M.Ps.S.I.), I offer a professional bridge that meets you exactly where you are. We move away from clinical labels to focus on practical, person-centered support. By combining the ethical standards of the Psychological Society of Ireland with a compassionate, human touch, we help you reconnect with your strengths and take meaningful steps forward.
Who We Work With
We work with adults navigating the "middle ground" of mental wellbeing—those who may not require clinical intervention but need more than a casual chat to find their way. Whether you are facing a career shift, the unique pressures of early adulthood, or simply a season of feeling "stuck," we provide a safe, expert space to find your bearings.
Flexible Services
Fastnet Guidance offers a range of options designed to fit into your life and meet your comfort level:
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Online Sessions (€60): Secure and professional guidance from the comfort of your own home.
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Coffee & A Chat (€65): Grounded, informal sessions held at a local West Cork café of your choosing.
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Walk & Talk (€70): Movement meets guidance on the coastal paths of Skibbereen, Clonakilty, or Bantry.
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Group Workshops (€20): Community-based sessions for shared growth and resilience.
Peer Support Specialist
Mihaela Cooper
Hello! I'm Mihaela, a Peer Support Specialist and Psychology Graduate living in West Cork, Ireland.
I’m here to support you in finding clarity, nurturing resilience, and navigating life's transitions with confidence. I believe in meeting you exactly where you are and helping you take steps forward at your own pace. I am particularly passionate about working with those navigating overthinking, early adulthood, and the "middle ground" of mental well-being. Truly, I just love working with people—it is a privilege to walk alongside my clients as they find their way.
Outside of work, I enjoy time spent in nature, sea swimming, and quality time with my friends. Like many of us here in West Cork, I think there is very little that isn't made better by a lovely cup of coffee after a long walk.
I have spent the last 10 years finding ways to help and support people, educating myself on both the mental and community aspects of health. I am so excited to finally bring all this experience together at Fastnet Guidance. I am looking forward to hearing from you.
Education & Certifications
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BA (Hons) Degree in Applied Psychology, UCC
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Certificate in Community Health Services
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Graduate Member, Psychological Society of Ireland (M.Ps.S.I.)
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SafeTalk Trained (Suicide Alertness for Everyone)
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Trained First Aid Responder
BA (Hons), M.Ps.S.I.
The Path Shared: Local Experiences
"A truly grounding experience that helped me navigate a difficult career shift. The walks are incredibly peaceful and provided me the clarity I was searching for in a really relaxed and comfortable way, by doing something I love the most, walking.."
West Cork lOCAL
"I didn't want to deal with the overly clinical side with labels, I wanted a simple place to chat and get support, and that's exactly what I got. Mihaela offers a professional bridge that meets you exactly where you are."
Online Support
"The idea of going to someone to 'talk' about my worries and thoughts seemed too big, but then I went to a coffee and a chat session and instantly, I felt heard, and supported in an enviroment that felt like just meeting a friend."
Skibbereen
Your journey is unique. When you're ready to explore a grounded path forward, we're here to guide the way.
Professional Disclosure & Boundaries
While I hold a degree in Applied Psychology and a certificate in Community Health Services and am a Graduate Member of the Psychological Society of Ireland (M.Ps.S.I.), it is important to clarify the nature of the services provided by Fastnet Guidance.
Non-Clinical Support Fastnet Guidance offers professional Peer Support and Guidance. I am a Peer Support Specialist, not a clinical psychologist, psychotherapist, or licensed counsellor. I do not provide clinical diagnoses, medical advice, or psychiatric treatment for moderate-to-severe mental health disorders.
The Scope of Our Work; My services are designed for individuals navigating life’s "middle ground"—transitions, overthinking, stress, and personal growth. Our work is educational and supportive in nature, focusing on the "here and now" rather than clinical intervention.
Our Safety Net; I operate under a strict ethical "Hand-off" policy. If at any point it becomes clear that your needs require a higher level of clinical care (such as specialised therapy or psychiatric support), I have a duty of care to pause our sessions and help signpost you toward the appropriate medical or emergency services.