The Sea Soul Story

Hi, I’m Elisha – the face behind Sea Soul Crew Counselling.
My passion for counselling began long before I even realised it. After finishing up my aviation career in 2018, I pursued a life at sea—one without traffic, without shoes, and filled with endless horizons. With a firm belief in myself and what I could achieve, I flew to Sydney to complete my STCW and, at 19, landed my dream job as a 3rd Stewardess aboard a 50m world-cruising motor yacht.

Though I told my friends and family I’d be gone for three years, I returned just eight months later, emotionally exhausted. Despite the dream-like moments—swimming with manta rays in Moorea, whale sharks in Indonesia, sea lions in the Galápagos—I felt deeply unsettled inside. I vividly remember New Year's Day in Patagonia, surrounded by glaciers, yet feeling an overwhelming sadness I couldn’t explain.

Like many in the yachting industry, I learned that what looks glamorous on the outside can feel isolating, demanding, and mentally draining. During my teens and early yachting years, I struggled with body image, disordered eating, low self-esteem, and the emotional toll of adapting to life at sea so young. I’ve always been introspective and driven to understand both myself and others, but for a long time, I didn’t have the tools to turn that reflection into healing.

That’s why I created Sea Soul Crew Counselling—to support crew members through every stage of their journey: entering the industry, navigating its challenges, or transitioning out of it. My approach is person-centered, and I use a combination of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy to help you explore, understand, and overcome.

Life at sea is physically demanding and mentally complex. Long stretches without movement, deep loneliness, or the weight of internal struggles can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to face it alone.

Whether you’re seeking clarity, healing, or simply someone who understands what it's like out there—I’m here for you.