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Who am I?

Linda Shearman

Hi, I'm Linda, and I'm a psychotherapeutic counsellor. My journey to becoming a counsellor is a really personal one, born from my own experiences with mental health struggles. Like so many of us, I've navigated some difficult times that led to my own experiences of anxiety, depression, and even suicide. It was through finding my own compassionate counsellor that I truly began to understand my thoughts and feelings. She helped me see a light at the end of the tunnel and supported me on a path toward positive change.
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That powerful experience is what inspired me to want to be there for others when they are facing their own difficulties. I know first-hand how lonely and isolating mental health struggles can feel, and it means so much to me to help, at least to some degree, ease that for someone else. I want to truly witness, understand, and validate your struggles, and then support you in finding your way to a better place.
 

Me and my dog, Aura

Beyond my counselling work, I'm also a mental health trainer, creating and delivering workshops on topics such as, Mental Health First Aid, Suicide, Stress, and Self-Care. I also volunteer as a counsellor for a local bereavement organisation, supporting both adults and children/young people, and I have experience working at a women's centre in Derby.

 

When I'm not working, you'll often find me out walking, enjoying nature, or exploring historical places. After losing my beloved dog, Aura (pictured with me), earlier this year, I'm hoping to welcome a new furry family member at some point in the future. Then perhaps some of my spare time will be spent training him/her to become a therapy dog!

Why did I call my practice "Sakaura Pathways"?

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You might be wondering about the name of my counselling service, Sakaura. It's inspired by the Japanese word Sakura, which means cherry blossom. Cherry blossoms are all about renewal – they arrive each year, signaling the end of winter and the start of spring, reminding us that even after tough times, new beginnings are always possible. They also beautifully represent how precious and fleeting life can be, encouraging us to live each day to the fullest.

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My unique spelling, Sakaura, is a heartfelt tribute to my last three wonderful dogs: Sabre, Kaiden, and Aura. They were more than just pets; they were teachers of unconditional love, loyal friends, and constant sources of support. Through them, I learned valuable lessons about compassion, acceptance, patience, and just how important it is to find joy and happiness in every opportunity. They were a huge part of my journey, and their memory deeply influences the supportive space I aim to create for you.

What qualifications do I have?

  • Professional Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling

  • Diploma in Counselling Skills and Theory 

  • Certificate in Walk and Talk Therapy

  • Certificate in Trauma Informed Practice

  • Certificate in Working with Autism

  • Certificate in Online and Telephone Counselling

  • Ofqual Mental Health First Aid Instructor ​

Additional training/experience

  • ​Grief and Bereavement, including Pet loss

  • Life Limiting Illness

  • Self harm and suicide

  • Working with Domestic Abuse

  • Mens Mental Health

  • Neurodiversity​

  • LGBTQ+​​​

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