Rate Shea McCartney

Hello, and thank you for taking the time to visit my profile.

Reaching out for support isn't always easy, and I recognise that simply being here may have taken a great deal of courage. Finding the right counsellor can feel overwhelming, so I hope this gives you a better sense of who I am and how I work.

I am an Integrative Counsellor with a strong person-centred and trauma-informed foundation. I believe that no two people are the same, so therapy shouldn't be either. Rather than expecting you to fit into one particular model of counselling, I tailor my approach to meet your individual needs, drawing upon a range of evidence-based approaches where appropriate.

For me, the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of effective counselling. Before any techniques or interventions, I believe it's important that you feel genuinely heard, understood and accepted without judgement. My aim is to create an environment where you feel comfortable enough to simply be yourself. Whether you're angry, upset, confused, numb, or don't even know where to begin, you'll be met with warmth, curiosity and without judgement.

Throughout my career, I have worked across NHS mental health services, child protection, trauma and suicide intervention organisations, supporting adults, children and young people experiencing a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties. My experience includes working with individuals affected by anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, bereavement, domestic abuse, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, family challenges, self-harm, suicidal thoughts and significant life changes. These experiences have shaped the counsellor I am today and continue to influence the compassionate, trauma-informed way I work with every client.

Although counselling often involves exploring painful experiences and difficult emotions, I don't believe every session has to feel heavy. Where appropriate, I value warmth, authenticity and even moments of humour, as I believe these can help people feel more at ease and make difficult conversations feel a little less overwhelming. While I always approach therapy with professionalism and sincerity, I also believe it's important that you feel comfortable enough to simply be yourself.

Alongside my professional experience, I hold an MSc in Counselling and Therapeutic Communication with Professional Practice, a BSc in Sociology with Psychology, and specialist training in trauma-informed counselling for children and young people. I remain committed to ongoing professional development to ensure my practice continues to reflect current research, ethical standards and best practice.

Above all, I view counselling as a collaborative process. My role isn't to tell you what to do or have all the answers, but to work alongside you as we explore your experiences, develop a deeper understanding of what may be contributing to your difficulties and identify meaningful ways forward. Whether you're looking for short-term support around a specific issue or longer-term therapy, we'll work together at a pace that feels right for you.

Whatever has brought you here today, you don't have to face it alone. Asking for help is rarely easy, and I genuinely appreciate the trust it takes to share your story with someone else. If you decide that I'm the right counsellor for you, it would be a privilege to support you throughout your journey.