- Person-centred approach
- Trauma-informed care
- Sleep and rest focus
About Shea
Shea McCartney is a counsellor who combines person-centred values with trauma-informed care. He draws on several approaches to tailor sessions to each person. Shea aims to make the room feel like a place where clients are heard, accepted and met without judgement. He writes warmly about meeting people where they are, whether they are angry, numb, or unsure how to begin.
Shea trained at postgraduate level and holds an MSc in Counselling and Therapeutic Communication with Professional Practice, plus a BSc in Sociology with Psychology. He has worked across NHS mental health services, child protection, trauma and suicide intervention organisations. Those roles informed his work with anxiety, depression, trauma, bereavement and relationship difficulties.
In sessions he focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship before using techniques. He blends client-centred listening with practical strategies from cognitive approaches and solution-focused ideas. Trauma-focused methods and psychodynamic reflection are used when they suit the client's goals and history.
Shea often helps people who are coping with stress, sleep problems, parenting pressures, compassion fatigue and the emotional aftermath of abusive experiences. He also works with issues such as codependency, chronic illness, communication problems and intimacy-related concerns, including BDSM and kink matters when they arise.
He is a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP) and an accredited member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (MNCPS). Shea practises in the United Kingdom and offers sessions in English. If you want to explore whether he might be a fit, use the Start Therapy process to match and schedule a session.
Approaches that shape online work
Client-Centred Therapy focuses on listening and acceptance. It helps people feel heard and respected, which makes it easier to open up about sleep problems, parenting stress or relationship worries. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) looks at patterns of thinking and behaviour. It offers practical strategies to manage anxiety, low mood and unhelpful sleep habits. Trauma-Focused Therapy pays attention to how past painful events affect the present and provides structured ways to process those experiences when the person is ready.Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will collaborate with each person to choose which methods suit their needs, goals and preferences. That might mean starting with person-centred listening, trying some CBT techniques for sleep or moving into trauma-focused work later on. Decisions are made together and can change as progress unfolds.
Confirm current session options before booking so you know what format is offered. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy life, for example by reducing travel time or making short check-ins possible during a break. It can also allow people to choose quieter surroundings or avoid being on camera if that feels better. Registered and accredited professionals, including counsellors who use the approaches above, can help find a rhythm that works for daily routines and care commitments.
Areas of expertise
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
4+ years
Credentials
United Kingdom
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does Shea help with?
He offers support for stress, anxiety, depression and grief, as well as trauma and abuse. He also works with relationship and family challenges, sleep problems, parenting pressures and compassion fatigue.
How does Shea approach therapy?
He begins by listening and building a trusting relationship. Techniques from client-centred, cognitive and trauma-focused approaches are used as needed to match each person's goals.
What experience does he bring to sessions?
Shea has four years' professional experience and has worked in NHS mental health services and organisations focused on child protection, trauma and suicide intervention.
What are his professional credentials and location?
He is a BACP Therapist - Registered Member (MBACP) and an NCPS Therapist - Accredited Member (MNCPS Accred). He practises in the United Kingdom.
Which languages are supported?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people outside the UK work with him?
International clients are not currently accepted.
How are sessions charged?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription model that can be cancelled at any time.
How do I start a session?
Use the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to the therapist's availability.