Shirley Lau
COUNSELOR
MSOCSC(COUNSEL) (THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG)
ELIJAH HOUSE 201 & 202 GRADUATE
Born and raised in Hong Kong, Shirley deeply understands how the city’s fast pace and unique cultural expectations can expose women to a wide range of mental, emotional, and spiritual challenges. Growing up in this vibrant yet demanding environment, she has personally witnessed how societal pressures and cultural norms can weigh heavily on women’s well-being. This lived experience enriches Shirley’s counselling practice, allowing her to empathize sincerely with the struggles women face here and to create a safe, supportive space where they can find understanding, healing, and renewed hope.
Shirley believes wholeheartedly that there is always a brighter side, even when life feels overwhelming or filled with hardship. As a woman who has navigated the complexities of juggling multiple roles and managing high expectations, she knows how demanding life can be. These experiences can lead to feelings of exhaustion and isolation, but Shirley has also witnessed how moments of joy, laughter, and blessings can still emerge amidst struggle. This belief shapes her counselling approach, which is a sanctuary—an accepting, non-judgemental space where women are truly seen, heard, and supported. Often, all it takes to rediscover hope is a compassionate listener.
Her counselling practice focuses especially on supporting women at various life stages, with heartfelt dedication to new and young mothers and those going through the perinatal period. This life stage involves profound transformations mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually, and deserves gentle, skilled care. She draws on a blend of therapeutic models such as the Satir Model, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, person-centered, and solution-focused approaches, tailoring her support to each woman’s unique needs and goals. Shirley aims to help women not only survive but thrive with courage and confidence through their transitions.
With more than seven years serving in the Women’s Ministry of an international church, Shirley has journeyed alongside women from seasons of singleness to the joys and demands of motherhood. These experiences have deepened her understanding of women's diverse paths and resilience. She views her counselling work as a calling to be an "Ezer"—a Hebrew term meaning "mighty helper"—reflecting the strong, compassionate support she strives to provide, especially during the sensitive perinatal period. Through her work, Shirley is dedicated to being a steady source of encouragement and empowerment for women navigating life’s changes.
“There is always a brighter side, even when life feels overwhelming or filled with hardship.”