Melissa is a qualified and experienced Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist. She has a background as a Special Needs Teacher working for ten years in mainstream schools supporting children with specific learning difficulties, in particular ASD, ADHD, Dyslexia and OCD.
As a Child and Adolescent Integrative Psychotherapist she uses a variety of techniques and methods, such as art, play, symbol, metaphor and various media, to help children and adolescents who are experiencing difficulties with their emotions or behaviour. She recognises that children and adolescents sometimes struggle to put their feelings into words and therefore supports her clients to express their feelings safely in different ways. This gentle process allows her to understand how relationships and experiences have shaped a child's internal emotional world.
Melissa relies on there being an effective working relationship between herself and the client so communication can bring about positive change. Empathy, compassion and a desire to understand what is happening for the child are key to healing. She is committed to creating a therapeutic atmosphere that supports each individual’s healing journey, building resilience and promoting emotional wellbeing.
Melissa works in a way that includes regular support and space to think carefully with parents. She provides either long term or short term Child Psychotherapy, dependent on the needs of the child and the family.
Melissa has experience working with clients on various issues affecting their well-being, including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, phobia, panic attack, anger, eating disorder, obsessive compulsive behaviour, self-esteem, loss and bereavement, school refusing, self-harm, Autism and ADHD.
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