Melissa Thompson , PACFA

Melissa Thompson is a PACFA credentialed therapist based in Australia with 14 years of professional experience. PACFA refers to the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia, a national body that recognises training and professional standards in counselling and psychotherapy.

She works with people facing stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, and challenges with motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. Her practice also supports those navigating addictions, relationship and family issues, intimacy-related concerns, sleep difficulties, anger, career transitions, depression, ADHD, and a range of attachment and abandonment-related matters.

Melissa draws on a range of evidence-informed approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to tailor support to each person. She prioritises an open, nonjudgmental space where thoughts and emotions can be explored safely and honestly.

Recognising that seeking change takes courage, Melissa aims to empower clients to take meaningful steps toward a more fulfilling life. She is currently accepting clients in Australia and offers flexible ways to engage to suit individual needs.

Therapeutic approaches and online support

Melissa integrates several practical therapies to address a broad range of concerns. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people notice difficult thoughts and emotions without getting stuck in them, and it is useful for anxiety, stress, and motivation challenges. Attachment-Based Therapy focuses on how early relationships shape current patterns, making it helpful for relationship difficulties, attachment issues, and feelings of abandonment. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) targets unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, offering clear strategies for depression, anxiety, sleep problems, and anger.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the process. Melissa works collaboratively with clients to identify which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences. Therapists and other licensed professionals commonly adapt these approaches to suit each person’s circumstances.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can take place by video call or phone, and shorter check-ins are possible through live chat or text-based messaging. This variety makes it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules, maintain continuity during life changes, and access support from home or work while working toward meaningful change.