Shirley Rocks , BACP

Shirley Rocks is a qualified Irish-based counsellor who supports adults through difficult life transitions with warmth and sensitivity. Trained with the Mid Ulster Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapy and with Cruse Bereavement, she developed solid expertise in grief, loss, and emotional change, and brings that foundation to work with issues such as addiction, sleep disturbances, anxiety, low self-confidence, and periods of emotional overwhelm.

Her practice is grounded in a compassion-focused stance that invites clients to explore concerns at their own pace within a respectful, non-judgemental space. Shirley adapts her methods to each individual, helping people build clearer self-understanding, greater emotional resilience, and a kinder relationship with themselves as they move toward personal goals.

Alongside conversational counselling, Shirley offers optional poetry and guided journaling as therapeutic tools for those who find expressive writing helpful. As a poet and writer, she uses gentle, structured prompts so that emotions which are hard to name can be safely explored through words - no prior writing experience is required.

Shirley is accredited by the BACP - the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy - a professional organisation for counsellors and psychotherapists, which reflects her commitment to recognised professional standards.

Integrating proven approaches with online support

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) encourages people to notice their thoughts and feelings without getting stuck in them, and to commit to actions that align with their personal values. It is often used to address anxiety, low mood, and patterns that limit well-being. Attachment-Based Therapy focuses on how early relationships shape current emotional patterns and interpersonal connections; it can be helpful for those working with abandonment, attachment issues, or relationship difficulties. Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) helps people identify and transform emotional responses within relationships, supporting improved communication and closeness when emotions feel overwhelming.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. Shirley will work with each person to explore which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting the focus as progress unfolds so therapy remains relevant and practical.

Online sessions offer flexibility and accessibility - video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging allow clients to engage from different locations and at times that suit their schedules. Working with licensed professionals in these formats makes it easier to maintain continuity of care while tailoring how therapy is delivered to each person's life.