Therapy that’s about you, not a template

The most important part of therapy is feeling truly seen and understood. We combine strong professional expertise with genuine empathy to create therapy that’s tailored to you. Never a script, never automated.

A calm, welcoming counselling setting

Why we’re different from large online therapy platforms

Unlike large online therapy platforms, we deliberately keep things small and personal so every session has meaning and focus. You’ll never be matched by an algorithm or passed between therapists. With us, therapy is a relationship, not a transaction.

  • We take time to get to know you before we begin
  • We keep smaller caseloads so sessions never feel rushed
  • You work with the same counsellor consistently, building trust
  • We offer flexible in-person and online sessions that fit your life
  • Every counsellor is experienced, qualified, and genuinely cares about your wellbeing

You’ll never be just another name on a booking system. You’ll be supported by people who truly care.

Two people talking in a calm, supportive space
A person feeling listened to and supported

Person-centred at heart

Our work is grounded in person-centred therapy, built on the belief that everyone has the capacity for growth and healing when they feel safe, accepted and understood.

  • You set the direction and pace of our work
  • We offer acceptance without judgment
  • We help you reconnect with your strengths and sense of self

This approach helps people feel valued and heard, often for the first time, and gives them the confidence to make lasting, meaningful change.

Therapies we use to support you

While person-centred therapy is our foundation, every client is different. Our counsellors use a range of evidence-based approaches so your therapy can evolve with your needs.

EMDR therapy for individuals

Gentle, structured therapy that helps process trauma, anxiety and distress.

EMDR therapy for couples

Couple-focused EMDR to heal together after stress, loss or shared trauma.

Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT)

Strengthens communication and emotional connection within relationships.

Integrative counselling

Combines techniques to create flexible, personalised support for your unique needs.

Person-centred therapy

Empathetic, non-judgemental counselling that helps you rediscover your own direction.

Psychodynamic therapy

Explores how early experiences shape emotions, relationships and behaviour today.

This flexibility ensures your therapy always meets you where you are: balancing understanding, insight and practical tools for real progress.

Our promise to you:

A safe, respectful place to talk openly

Therapy that gives you time, attention and understanding. Never rushed, never automated.

No algorithms. No matching systems.

You’ll never be paired by software or treated like data. We personally match you with the right counsellor.

Genuine care and professional support

Every counsellor is qualified, experienced and deeply committed to ethical, compassionate practice.

You’ll always be seen as a person, not a number

We keep things small and personal so you always feel heard, valued and supported.

Ready to begin?

If our approach feels right for you, meet our team and find the counsellor who’s the best fit.

 

NCPS Shirley Marais

OTC Shirley Marais

Shirley Marais EMDR

BACP - Shirley Marais Counselling

Counselling for Individuals, Relationships in Bedford,

St Ives, Bury St Edmunds, or online anywhere in the UK.

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