Edenderry psychotherapist recognised for industry research

Edenderry native David Kelly has been recognised for research in his field of expertise by the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP) with the 2026 Research Excellence Award.

The Dublin based psychotherapist and counsellor received the award for for his timely and thought-provoking research exploring the psychology behind compulsive scrolling and its impact on emotional wellbeing.

The award winner was recognised for his article, 'Black mirroring and the paranoid-schizoid simulacrum: scrolling as a defence against the depressive position'.

His research explores a behaviour familiar to many, compulsive, seemingly aimless scrolling, and offers a compelling psychological framework for understanding why it is so difficult to stop.

His work examines how scrolling can function as a defence against difficult emotions, creating a soothing digital space that allows individuals to temporarily avoid feelings such as responsibility, loss, everyday pressures.

His findings further suggest that the guilt and low mood often experienced after scrolling reflect a return to these more challenging emotional realities.

David argues that excessive scrolling may ultimately work against the goals of counselling and psychotherapy by limiting opportunities for genuine self-reflection and personal growth.

David practices psychodynamic psychotherapy in Dublin, lectures at PCI College, and is completing an MSc in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy at Trinity College Dublin.

“I’m honoured to receive this award from the IACP. It’s particularly meaningful to me as it suggests that psychoanalytic thinking is illuminating contemporary digital phenomena, like compulsive scrolling, and how these technologies are reshaping our mental and relational life," David said.

Speaking about the awards, IACP Chief Executive Officer, Lisa Molloy, said the award recipient's research "offers a thought-provoking and highly relevant perspective on a behaviour that has become embedded in everyday life".

"By examining the psychological phenomenon of compulsive scrolling, his work deepens our understanding of how individuals engage with avoidance and emotional regulation in the digital age. It is an important contribution that speaks directly to both practitioners and the wider public," the IACP Chief Executive Officer, added.

The award was presented at the IACP Annual Conference, which took place at the Johnstown Estate County Meath on Saturday, April 18.

Now in its sixth year, the IACP Research Excellence Award recognises an outstanding published research article that advances understanding within counselling and psychotherapy. Members are invited to submit their published work, the IACP Research Committee adjudicates this award and selects the final recipient.