Barbara Fiori Awarded IACP Undergraduate Research Excellence Award 2026 for Contribution to Counselling and Psychotherapy

Argentinian-born, Cork-based counsellor recognised for her research on bilingual practice and the therapeutic value of language diversity

28th April 2026: The Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy has honoured Cork-based graduate counsellor and psychotherapist, Barbara Fiori with the 2026 Undergraduate Research Excellence Award at the recent IACP Annual Conference, which took place in Johnstown Estate, Co. Meath on Saturday, 18th April. 

Now in its second year, Barbara received the award for her study, “My Beautiful Accent: The Experience of Bilingual Trainee Counsellors Providing Therapy in English as a Second Language.”

Barbara’s research explores the experiences of trainee counsellors delivering therapy in English as a second language, highlighting how perceived challenges, such as having an accent, pausing to find the right words, or inviting clarification, can strengthen the therapeutic relationship.

Her findings show that these moments of vulnerability can deepen connection and enhance authenticity in practice, giving voice to a growing community of multilingual practitioners in Ireland whose diverse linguistic backgrounds add significant value to the profession.

Commenting following receiving the award, Barbara Fiori noted, “It is an honour to have my undergraduate dissertation recognised with this award. When deciding on the topic, I thought that it was quite niche, and relevant only to trainee therapists who might be worrying about starting their clinical placements using English as a second language. This dissertation highlights the needs, vulnerabilities and strengths of this cohort, and hopefully opens the space to wonder about the needs of bilingual clients who might attend therapy in English as a second language. I appreciate the light this award shines on the topic.

Ireland has become more multicultural in the past thirty years, so counselling rooms are becoming more multilingual as a result. Counselling and psychotherapy are talk therapies, and verbal language is the main instrument for change. Thinking about how trainee therapists who speak English as a second language manage this specific circumstance was the driver for my research: are they comfortable using their second language? Do they feel vulnerable or disempowered? Do they need specific supports to overcome the challenges?

It was a pleasure to be able to contribute to the discussion and give a voice to trainee therapists coming from different language backgrounds.”

Originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Barbara has been living in Cork for the past 10 years and provides counselling in both Spanish and English. Her work also reflects her own lived experience as a bilingual practitioner, further enriching the insights of her research.

Barbara is a PCI College graduate and her dissertation won the Martin Kitterick award 2025. (The Martin Kitterick Award is presented annually to a final year PCI College student whose thesis demonstrates academic excellence and meaningful contribution to the field).

Speaking about the awards, IACP Chief Executive Officer, Lisa Molloy said, “Barbara’s research offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the evolving nature of counselling practice in Ireland. By highlighting the strengths inherent in bilingualism, her work challenges assumptions and underscores the value of diversity within the profession. It is a thoughtful and impactful contribution that will resonate with both practitioners and those in training.”

The IACP Undergraduate Research Excellence Award celebrates exceptional undergraduate research that advances knowledge and practice within counselling and psychotherapy. Colleges across Ireland - with an IACP accredited BSc/BA undergraduate course in counselling/ psychotherapy - are invited to nominate a student with an outstanding dissertation for this award. The IACP Research Committee adjudicates this award and selects the final recipient. 

ENDS

Notes to the Editor:
For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact the IACP Communications Department at communications@iacp.ie
Nicole Mac Dermott – 087 720 6033 or Wayne Tobin - 089 214 2276

About the IACP:
The Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy was established in 1981 to identify, develop and maintain professional standards of excellence in counselling and psychotherapy. The organisation promotes best practice and supports the ongoing development of the profession, representing 7,000 members nationwide.

Barbara Fiori IACP 2026 Undergraduate Research Excellence Award Recipient