Melanie Michelson

Are you seeking a safe and confidential space where you feel able to share anything - no matter how big or small it may seem- You might be hoping to explore how anxiety, stress, depression, and/or grief feel for you and the impact these have on your sense of self and your relationships with others. As a Person - Centred therapist my aim is to provide a genuine relationship with empathy and acceptance at the core and a space where we untangle current and past experiences to make sense of your innermost sensations and feelings. Others' expectations and values may have meant you needed to modify your own responses and way of being to feel valued, noticed and loveable. My approach is non-directive meaning I place trust in you as the expert of your life. I believe you hold the ability to heal past and present emotional hurt within the safe boundaries of a therapeutic relationship.  I have personally felt the transforming power of being in a therapeutic relationship with a Person - Centred therapist who 'got me' by truly listening to my experiences. When I felt safe enough to reveal my most painful, disorganised parts of my being, and the therapist continued to communicate her understanding and acceptance, over time I felt able to offer this acceptance and valuing to myself which was incredibly healing.  I have worked with parents and carers who have sought help and support with raising young children and adolescents; issues such as self - harm, challenging behaviour, anger issues and bullying have been explored. I have also worked with women who are living with the effects anxiety, depression, and grief have on their sense of selves; managing changes in their lives brought on by divorce and separation; and survivors of emotional abuse and sexual violence.   I previously volunteered as a volunteer therapist for two organisations: the Parent and Carers Counselling Service PCCS , which offers free therapy to parents and carers of children in Camden schools; and CARIS Islington, a bereavement charity offering free therapy to adults. I feel very fortunate to be a practicing therapist in North London as I have access to wonderful local green spaces which enable me to offer clients the opportunity of outdoor therapy. Nature based outdoor therapy sessions allow clients to connect to their memories and feelings while moving through the ever changing landscape over heath or through woodland. These sessions have been described as 'life affirming'.  Thank you for visiting my profile page. I understand choosing a therapist and then making contact can feel like a huge step which is why I offer a free 30 minute telephone consultation where we can explore the possibilities of working together.