Rate Emma Devai

I believe genuine connection begins with authenticity. In the work we do together, I see the therapeutic relationship as a partnership rather than a hierarchy. My aim is to create a space grounded in mutual respect, where you feel genuinely seen, heard, and valued.

I work relationally and believe that healing and growth can happen through safe, honest, and meaningful human connection. When appropriate and therapeutically beneficial, I may share my own emotional responses within the room, as I believe this can deepen trust and strengthen the therapeutic relationship. At times, this may also include humour and laughter. Above all, I want you to know that I do not place myself above the human experience. I understand that life can feel messy, complicated, and imperfect, and I approach my work with warmth, openness, and authenticity.

I am an integrative counsellor, meaning I draw on techniques and ideas from different therapeutic approaches to tailor support to your individual needs. I would describe myself as calm, friendly, and approachable, with a strong belief that honesty, transparency, and authenticity are central to building a safe therapeutic relationship.

I hold a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice & Crime Control, which has given me a deeper understanding of the systems that shape the lives of both young people and adults, including education, social care, workplaces, and the criminal justice system. This perspective allows me to support individuals in making sense of their experiences, navigating systemic challenges, and rebuilding confidence, identity, and emotional wellbeing.

My practice is relational, trauma-informed, and strengths-based, drawing on restorative and desistance-informed perspectives to support emotional growth, self-understanding, and positive change. I believe people are more than the difficulties they face or the labels they may have been given, and I work collaboratively to help individuals reconnect with their strengths, values, and hopes for the future.

Counselling offers a space to explore the past, present, and future parts of ourselves, helping us understand our patterns, beliefs, relationships, emotions, and experiences more deeply. I provide a confidential and non-judgemental environment where every story is treated with care and respect.

For young people, counselling can feel especially daunting. You may not know what to say, worry about being judged, or feel unsure whether therapy will help at all. I aim to create a relaxed and down-to-earth space where there is no pressure to have the “right” words or answers. We can work at your pace and explore whatever feels important to you, including school pressures, friendships, family relationships, identity, confidence, emotions, and life experiences. My approach with young people is collaborative, creative where appropriate, and centred around helping them feel heard, understood, and emotionally safe.

I currently work with both adults and young people and have experience working within schools, social care settings, and a range of supportive organisations.