Background

Hi, I’m Melanie (she/her)! I’m an Intern counsellor with Avery Therapy Centre and a Registered Social Worker. I’m currently completing my Master of Counselling degree at City University in Canada and hold a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of British Columbia. Growing up between cultures (Filipino and Jamaican) has taught me about belonging, identity, and the unique experiences that come with being first-generation in Canada. These experiences helped me understand how complex it can feel to hold different parts of who we are and how powerful it is to find a space where all those parts are accepted.

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My own counselling journey was both vulnerable and transformative. I know how scary it can be to open up and trust the process. For a long time, I thought I had to figure things out on my own, but I’ve learned that seeking support can be one of the bravest things we do. That experience inspired me to sit on the other side of the chair- to be there for others in the same compassionate way. While being part of Avery Therapy Centre, I work in community and family service settings, supporting children, youth, and families through life transitions and emotional challenges. These experiences ground my belief that healing happens through connection when people feel safe, supported, and understood. 

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Outside of counselling, I love spending time with my family, playing piano, baking, and crocheting on my couch with my three fur babies.

 

Therapeutic Approach

I believe that everyone is unique, so there is no single way that therapy should look. My approach is flexible and centred on you, what you need, where you are at, and what feels most helpful in the moment. I see therapy as a partnership, where we work together to explore your goals, challenges, and what matters most to you.

 

I draw from different evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. I also use “parts work” (Internal Family Systems), which helps you understand the different sides of yourself and how they can work together. My work is trauma-informed and strength-based, guided by compassion, respect, and curiosity. My goal is to create a space that feels warm, nonjudgmental, and grounding; a place where you can slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself to find healing, growth, and self-understanding.

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My online booking link can be found here.