Marrisa Shaw, BSc, MA, MNCPS (Accred)

Accredited Psychotherapist & Specialist in Older Adult Mental Health

I'm Marrisa Shaw, an NCPS accredited psychotherapist based in Lincoln with over a decade of experience providing counselling and mental health support for seniors. My focus areas include late-life depression and anxiety, dementia-related support, and addiction recovery. I am DBS checked and fully ensured.

My expertise is grounded in strong academic and clinical training, including a BSc (Hons) in Biology and an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counselling. This allows me to integrate a deep understanding of neurobiology and the ageing process into my psychotherapeutic work. My experience spans across NHS-aligned services, private practice, and community mental health programmes, giving me a practical understanding of complex late-life challenges.

My Commitment to Senior Mental Health

My dedication to senior mental health stems from a deep empathy for the unique challenges faced by older adults. I recognise the quiet struggle many are coping with; loneliness, bereavement, chronic pain, loss of independence, or memory difficulties, all while navigating an increasingly confusing modern world.

For some, aging brings moments of feeling unheard, overlooked, or that their contributions no longer matter. My commitment at AgeWise Counselling is to ensure every client feels valued, respected, and reconnected to who they truly are, a person of vital importance and lasting purpose.

Evidence-Based Specialisations

I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychotherapy tailored for common and complex issues facing older adults and their families, including:

• Depression and Anxiety in later life.

• Prolonged Grief and Bereavement Counselling.

• Late-Life Addictions (substance use and behavioural addictions).

• Emotional distress related to chronic illness and loss of independence.

• Mild to moderate cognitive decline and changing family dynamics.

My Therapeutic Approach

My work is solutions-focused and grounded in two powerful, evidence-based modalities:

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT):I help clients move past fighting what they can't change, like chronic pain, illness or loss. From that space of acceptance, we clarify what matters most, your deepest values and priorities and build simple, practical ways to live a rich, meaningful life right now.

• Life Review Therapy:This structured approach is proven to reduce anxiety and depression in older adults. It supports clients in reflecting on their experiences to process unresolved conflicts, find meaning, and enhance psychological wellbeing. It is also highly beneficial for maintaining identity and emotional regulation in those with mild-to-moderate cognitive decline, and for gaining clarity and closure on difficult family relationships and past hurts.