Melanie Claassen, RCC · Heartwood Counselling · Victoria

About Melanie

Their own words

My approach to counselling is collaborative, and I consider clients to be co-creators of our therapeutic work. I practice within a trauma-informed, person-centered approach and center emotions and body-based awareness in my work. I often utilize elements of Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Emotionally Focused therapy, and mindfulness as we collaborate to find a good fit for achieving your goals. I have experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, interpersonal or relationship challenges, grief, life transitions, as well as everyday stresses and challenges. As a counsellor, I believe it’s vital for me to understand the issues you bring to counselling within the context of your unique life experience. I bring myself into the therapeutic relationship and aim to create an environment where you feel safe and comfortable sharing any aspects of your identity, life, beliefs, or perspectives that feel right. I see you as the expert in your own life, and my goal is to support and collaborate with you as you work toward the goals you’ve set for yourself. I hold a Master of Counselling Degree from City University, a Post-Degree Diploma in Mental Health and Addiction from Camosun College, and a Bachelor of Arts in Individual and Family Development from Seattle Pacific University. I also have training in Transformational Systemic Therapy from the Satir Institute and Gottman level 1 training in relationship counselling.