Melissa Hughes is an experienced Psychotherapist and Relationship Counsellor, with over 20 years of practice on the lower North Shore.

For appointment requests, phone or text: 0417 411 110

Qualifications: 

• Grad Dip Psych and Counselling.,

• Cert Coaching for Psychotherapists.,

• Cert Couples Counselling.,

• B Bus (HONS) Human Resource Management.,

• Bachelor of Information Systems.,

• Interpersonal Therapy Qualification Levels A,B,C

• Qualification in Newborn Observational Technique

• (Assoc) PACFA, Clinical Member.,

• ASSERT member.

Melissa’s compassionate yet practical approach has helped men, women, and couples achieve meaningful and lasting change. She has particular success supporting women who are seeking a more positive and empowering second pregnancy experience.

Melissa works with clients using a longer-term therapeutic approach. The focus begins with symptom relief, followed by symptom reduction, while carefully working to identify the underlying sources of psychological pain or emotional “triggers.” This process often draws on a range of therapeutic techniques, including exploration of family-of-origin experiences.

Melissa works from the understanding that each of us absorbs a unique blueprint of family dynamics during childhood. As adults, we can unconsciously overlay this early—and sometimes faulty—design for living onto our current relationships and family life. Because this blueprint is formed at a young age, reshaping our thinking and beliefs takes time. However, with choice, commitment, and a willingness to change, significant transformation is possible within a strong therapeutic alliance.

Many clients feel confused when issues resurface despite having “done” therapy in the past. Melissa views this as a natural part of growth. Life-changing experiences—such as becoming a parent—often require us to revisit old material through a new lens. With each major transition, we see ourselves and our experiences differently, and further therapeutic work can be both appropriate and valuable.

Some clients worry that therapy will require revisiting years of history just to feel better in the present. This is not always the case. Therapy does not need to be overwhelming or exhausting. Melissa’s work incorporates warmth, humour, and the development of practical skills and tools to help navigate life’s more challenging moments.

Melissa is upfront from the very first session: research and experience consistently show that around 80% of the effectiveness of therapy depends on the relationship between client and therapist. When you feel safe, comfortable, and understood, trust and openness naturally follow—and that is where meaningful therapeutic work truly begins.