As an RPN-Psychotherapist, Melissa offers a unique approach that integrates evidence-based psychotherapy with the holistic perspective of nursing. Her background provides extensive knowledge of child development, physical and mental health, psychopharmacology, and the many factors that influence a child’s emotional well-being. She recognizes that a child’s mental health cannot be viewed in isolation and considers the important role of physical health, sleep, nutrition, medications, family relationships, school, and life experiences in treatment planning. While Melissa does not prescribe medications, her nursing experience and knowledge of pharmacology allow her to work collaboratively with physicians, pediatricians, psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, schools, and other professionals to ensure coordinated, comprehensive care. Melissa works with children ages 5–14 using a compassionate, evidence-based, and developmentally appropriate approach. She incorporates Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Play Therapy to create an engaging therapeutic environment where children feel safe to express themselves, build confidence, strengthen emotional regulation, and develop practical coping skills that extend beyond the therapy room. Melissa has a particular interest in supporting children experiencing anxiety, ADHD, emotional regulation difficulties, behavioural challenges, self-esteem concerns, and significant life transitions. She is also passionate about working with children and families navigating separation, divorce, high-conflict parenting, and court-involved family matters. Melissa’s practice is built on a child-centred philosophy. While she values collaboration with parents, caregivers, schools, healthcare providers, and legal professionals, her primary focus is always the emotional well-being, developmental needs, and best interests of the child. She believes every child deserves a safe, trusting, and non-judgmental space where they feel heard, respected, and empowered to find their voice. Beginning in 2027, Melissa will expand her practice to include reunification therapy, providing structured therapeutic support to families working toward rebuilding and strengthening parent-child relationships following separation, family conflict, or interruptions in contact. Her goal is to help families move forward in a way that prioritizes the child’s emotional safety, developmental needs, and long-term well-being. Melissa believes therapy should empower children and families with the tools, confidence, and understanding needed to create lasting positive change. She is committed to lifelong learning and continually expands her knowledge in child and family mental health, evidence-based interventions, and court-informed practice to provide the highest standard of care. Outside of her practice, Melissa enjoys spending quality time with her daughter, staying active through strength training and CrossFit, gardening, decorating, spending time outdoors with family and friends, and, in the winter months, watching and playing hockey. She believes that caring for both physical and mental health is essential to overall well-being and strives to bring that same balanced, compassionate philosophy into every aspect of her work. Clients are encouraged to look into their private benefit coverage, as many benefit providers now recognize services provided by an RPN-Psychotherapist; however, it is each client’s responsibility to confirm their individual coverage.