National Conference 2025 - Live from 10am Today

Professor of Psychology as Applied to Medicine, King’s College London
Talk title: Living with MS: Psychological Adjustments in a Changing Body

Prof Rona Moss-Morris has over 30 years of research experience on how psychological factors influence living with chronic health conditions, including MS. Her work has helped shape cognitive behavioural and digital therapies to better support people with MS. She is a recipient of multiple awards for her contributions to health psychology and MS research.

Consultant Neurologist, Cork University Hospital, Honorary Clinical Professor, University College Cork
Talk title: Understanding MS Treatments: A Look at the Latest Developments

Professor Simon Cronin has extensive experience in neurogenetics and neurodegenerative disorders, with specialist interests in multiple sclerosis, neurovascular neurology, and patient-centred neurological care. He has trained and conducted research in Ireland, the UK, and the US, including a PhD on genomics in neurodegenerative disease during a Muscular Dystrophy Association Research Fellowship.

Personal, Executive, and Wellbeing Coach
Talk title: Think It, Plan It, Do It: The Power of Goal Setting

Judith Spring has over 30 years of senior leadership experience in engineering, supply chain, and operations. She works with individuals and teams to build confidence, enhance leadership skills, and strengthen collaboration. A Professional Certified Coach with the ICF, Judith teaches at Kingstown College and has a particular interest in the link between neuroscience and coaching.

Senior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology on the Doctorate Training Programme in Clinical Psychology at University College Cork. She is also an adjunct Professor at the School of Psychology in University College Dublin.
Session: A Holistic Approach to Managing MS Fatigue, Mental Health and Thinking Skills 

She established the Clinical Neuropsychology Service and held the role of Principal Specialist Clinical Neuropsychologist at St Vincent’s University Hospital, Dublin, specialising in multiple sclerosis (MS), acquired brain injuries, stroke, epilepsies, movement disorders, and neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation.

Dr O’Keeffe’s applied clinical research focuses on mental health, cognitive and behavioural outcomes, and interventions following neurological conditions, including MS. She has published over 100 journal articles on neuropsychological assessment and intervention, mental and physical health in neurological conditions, and social inclusion and justice. She is a strong advocate for public and patient involvement in research and teaching.

Exercise and Physiotherapy Coordinator, MS Ireland
Adjunct Clinical Professor, University of Limerick
Session: Moving Minds: The Mental Health Benefits of Physical Activity in MS

Dr Susan Coote is the Exercise and Physiotherapy Coordinator at MS Ireland and an Adjunct Clinical Professor at the University of Limerick. She leads MS Ireland’s physiotherapy and exercise programmes, translating research into practical supports for people living with MS.

She also collaborates with the University of Limerick and the HSE on research aimed at reducing symptom severity and improving quality of life for people living with MS.

Her work focuses on how physical activity can reduce depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline in MS, while improving wellbeing and resilience.

Community Worker, MS Ireland
Session: The Resilient Carer – An Interactive Workshop for Carers

Jackie Keogh is a dedicated Community Worker with MS Ireland, bringing over two decades of experience in supporting vulnerable individuals across community-based settings. Since joining MS Ireland three years ago, Jackie has remained deeply committed to person-centred care, ensuring that those she supports are treated with dignity, empathy, and respect. She has a particular passion for promoting self-care and wellbeing, and brings practical, compassionate insights into how carers and communities can prioritise their own health while supporting others 

Regional Community Worker, MS Ireland
Session: Sexuality & MS: Changing Perspectives

Mary Leonard M.I.A.C.P. is a highly experienced Regional Community Worker with MS Ireland, where she has spent many years supporting people living with multiple sclerosis across the region. Mary has particular expertise in the sensitive and often overlooked areas of sexuality, intimacy, and relationships.

She works closely with individuals and couples to navigate the impact MS can have on sexual health and emotional connection, offering guidance with empathy and respect. Mary also collaborates with multidisciplinary healthcare professionals (HCPs) to promote open, inclusive conversations about intimacy as a vital part of holistic MS care. Her work is grounded in person-centred practice, empowerment, and community engagement.