About me

Michelle Marshall, Incus Counselling, Plymouth, Devon

I'm Michelle Marshall. I work with adults and young adults. I aim to create a professional, yet relaxed space where you don’t need to pretend to be someone or something you aren't. I'd like you to feel safe enough to express yourself honestly.  I ask questions to better understand who you are, what you’ve been through, and what’s brought you to counselling. I have a special interest in those struggling with stress, shame, low self-esteem, abandonment and trust issues.


I qualified as a nurse over 20 years ago and work mostly in the NHS. I have always been invested in supporting people from all backgrounds through times of difficulty, including those with mental health struggles. I have completed a level 4 diploma in counselling practice, bringing together years of clinical and lived experience with ongoing learning. My no-nonsense approach is honest, direct, collaborative, respectful and values your experiences, fosters your autonomy, and supports you in building trust in yourself.

Your time with me will be just that — yours. I can offer you space to explore what’s feeling difficult, at your own pace, and work towards changes that feel right for you.

Qualifications and Training
  • Level 2 and 3 Certificates in Counselling Skills
  • Level 4 Diploma in Counselling Practice 
  • Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Mental Health First Aid and Mental Health Advocacy in the Workplace
  • Safeguarding training
  • Conflict Resolution Training
  • Domestic Abuse and Sexual Abuse Training
  • Suicide Prevention Training
  • Equality, Diversity and Human Rights Training
  • Regular professional supervision undertaken
  • Volunteer counsellor in placement in Plymouth, Devon
  • Qualified Nurse with over 20 years experience
  • Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training
  • Volunteer Samaritan
  • Enhanced DBS
  • Fully insured

Issues I work with
  • Stress
  • Abandonment
  • Loss and Bereavement
  • Shame
  • Low Self-Esteem
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Relationship problems
  • Major Life Changes
  • Trauma
  • Abuse
  • Burnout
  • Procrastination
  • Confidence issues
  • Trust issues

        and more

 

Testimonials

January 2026

"I had counselling with Michelle during one of the most difficult times of my life, after I found out my husband of many years had an affair.
I was over whelmed with anger and confusion, struggling to process what had happened.
From the very first session I felt heard , supported and never judged.
Michelle helped me work through my emotions with clarity and compassion and supported me both during attempts to save my marriage then making the difficult decision to file for a divorce."

 

March 2026

"Before starting counselling sessions with Michelle I really wasn’t sure what to expect or how useful I would find the process. Now, after 12 sessions together, I would definitely recommend giving it a go. Michelle created a safe space where I felt comfortable to be completely open and honest, without any fear of being judged. It was such a valuable experience and I learnt a lot about myself. I now feel I have coping mechanisms to help me to deal with every day life and to protect myself from getting to the point of overwhelm so easily. I’m glad I took the leap of faith." 

 

March 2026

"Thank you so much for helping me at my worse points in life . I am still taking every day little step. But without Michelle helping me get through the days with such understanding I don’t think I would be here now . Michelle was the only person that listened and with such compassion it meant a lot . Words I can’t describe."

 

August 2026

"Hi Michelle. Thank you for the support you have given me. Being able to speak freely without judgement has really helped me thorough this really difficult time. Thank you for helping me realise my feelings are valid and helping me see my worth. I’m very grateful for the time we have had together to talk"

 

August 2026

" I looked for some counselling to try and work through some issues affecting my mental health. I wasn't sure what to expect and didn't feel confident that I would "connect" with my counsellor. I'm thankful that I didn't need to worry about that,  because Michelle really listened and i felt immediately safe to share my feelings. No judgements, no uncomfortable advice,  just a really secure space for me to reach my own decisions and realisations, through Michelle's skillful and empathetic steering. From just a few sessions,  I took away learnings that I could actually use in my day-to- day. 
Highly recommended"