Shelley Silas

Background

My background is in the arts as a writer. After Covid I needed to rethink what had become a precarious career. I was stuck with no idea what came next. I signed up for an introductory course and embarked on a two-year M.A. in Existential Coaching. Working with coaching clients was great but I discovered that they – and I – often wanted to go deeper, and to broaden my practice and add to my skills I started training in Gestalt therapy. Gestalt is the closest in attitude to my existential M.A. and it has a creative edge which aligns with my previous experience. In 2025 I qualified with a Diploma in Professional Development in Gestalt Therapy and Theory and am currently training in Gestalt counselling.

I work with what is in the moment, with what you bring to each session. Together we will find the best way forwards for you. My practice is grounded in what happens now. While the past often comes up, we will look at the past as you experience it in the present, exploring physical and emotional sensations as they arise. If you are stuck, or if there is an area you want to change in your personal or professional life, we will work together to support those changes and put them into practice. If you can’t find the meaning to make that first move, we will find a way together, a way that works for you. You’re the expert of you.

I have always been a curious person, working with Gestalt has taken that a step further. Your environment, how you relate to your environment, and the connections you make with others, will form part of our work together. Gestalt takes an holistic approach, working with all of you, body and mind as one.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion are a vital part of my counselling practice. I am LGBTQI+- affirmative and I work towards a fully anti-oppressive working environment.