Mel is a registered counsellor with a vibrant passion for working with children, adolescents, and families.

Mel adopts a non-clinical approach, particularly with younger clients, fostering a safe, engaging, and welcoming environment where individuals and families can grow and heal.

Utilizing a variety of methods, Mel incorporates strengths-based techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as art and play therapy, along with mindfulness practices. Additionally, as a certified yoga instructor for children, adolescents, and adults, she understands how trauma and emotions are stored in our bodies, and the ways that movement and mindfulness can reconnect us to our bodies and breath, promoting overall well-being.

As a client-centered clinician, Mel meets clients where they are, advocating for a safe and healing approach, regardless of the challenges presented. She often integrates games, art, yoga, and mindfulness techniques into her sessions to create a dynamic experience.

Mel enjoys working with a diverse range of issues, including:

• At-risk and risky behaviours
• Domestic and family violence (both victims and perpetrators)
• Harmful sexualized behaviour
• School disengagement
• Disordered eating
• Stress and anxiety
• Depression
• Male mental health
• Trauma and PTSD
• Relationship and family issues
• Parental separation
• Grief and loss
• Self-image concerns
• Compulsive thoughts

With extensive experience in the justice system and the family and domestic violence sector, Mel is dedicated to supporting those at greatest risk in our community. Her hands-on experience has equipped her to handle a wide array of presentations, always recognising the strengths in her clients.

Friendly and approachable, Mel values honesty, trust, high ethical standards, and the therapeutic connection. Mel strives to make the therapeutic process collaborative, empowering, and sometimes fun—reminding clients that therapy doesn’t have to be scary or overwhelming. It can be a transformative and joyful journey toward healing. She works particularly well with teenagers who would rather be anywhere else than therapy!