Drawing on anonymised feedback from over 500 trainees, the findings offer valuable insight into how early psychological support influences professional development, resilience, and wellbeing at the beginning of a solicitor’s career.

The study highlights a meaningful cultural shift within the legal profession. Trainees reported engaging with counselling not only during periods of heightened stress, but also proactively for personal insight and self-development. This reflects an emerging view of mental health support as a constructive and normal aspect of professional life.

The research identifies key themes including:

• Improved stress management and coping skills
• Increased confidence and communication abilities
• Enhanced emotional self-awareness
• Greater resilience in high-pressure environments
• Positive impact on career clarity and progression

These outcomes demonstrate that personal wellbeing and professional effectiveness are deeply interconnected, and that early access to psychological support can contribute to a more sustainable and reflective legal culture.

The accessibility of counselling during the Professional Practice Course helped normalise help-seeking, challenging stigma and perfectionist norms that have historically shaped the profession. Some trainees accessed the service before reaching crisis point, signalling a move towards more proactive engagement with mental health supports.

Related supports

• Trainee Counselling Service – contact counselling@lawsociety.ie (full time PPC) or HybridCounselling@LawSociety.ie (Hybrid PPC)
• LegalMind counselling support for solicitors

Contact

For further information, please contact: ps@LawSociety.ie