Tides Center For Counselling & Health
Meet Melissa! I am a counsellor passionate about supporting children, youth, and families in building their strengths and connection. As a certified Therapeutic Play Practitioner, I use therapeutic play as a safe and creative way for children to express feelings, explore challenges, process experiences, and develop coping skills. Through play, children can communicate in ways that feel natural to them, and I guide this process to help them build insight, problem-solving skills, and confidence.
I am certified in Theraplay® principles (Level 1), a structured, evidence-based approach that strengthens parent/caregiver-child relationships through playful, interactive, and emotionally attuned activities. Theraplay focuses on four key areas (structure, engagement, nurture, and challenge) to promote secure attachment, social-emotional growth, and a sense of trust and confidence in children.
My approach is strength-based, helping children, youth, and adults identify and build on their existing skills, empowering them to overcome challenges and thrive. Working collaboratively with individuals, I strive to create a warm, supportive environment where clients feel seen, heard, and understood. I look forward to being a part of your journey, offering support as you work toward healing!