Melanie Richards

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Canvey Island SS8 & Leigh-On-Sea SS9

About me

Welcome to A Space for You.

Beginning counselling may feel like a big and sometimes daunting step but it’s also a hopeful one a chance to begin understanding yourself in a new way.

I’m Melanie, an integrative counsellor offering a warm, calm and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. As an integrative counsellor I draw from both Person‑Centred therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), blending these approaches to suit your individual needs. My approach is grounded in empathy, authenticity and the belief that each person has the capacity for growth and meaningful change.

After many years working in the health and fitness industry I retrained later in life as a counsellor. This experience deepened my understanding of myself and strengthened my commitment to supporting others. Choosing this path was rooted in genuine passion which has shaped the way I work building a gentle honest therapeutic relationship where you are met with acceptance, respect and care. Our work together will be guided by your needs. We’ll explore what feels important to you and move towards your goals in a way that feels safe, manageable and at your own pace.

Who I support

I support adults and young people 13 years upwards who are experiencing a wide range of emotional and relationship-based difficulties, including anxiety, depression, stress, self‑esteem concerns, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, feeling stuck or overwhelmed, and unresolved past experiences. I also work with addictions, eating disorders and other health‑related difficulties within the ethical boundaries of counselling practice. My support can form part of a wider care plan and may involve collaboration with medical or specialist services.

Training, qualifications & experience

I completed my counselling training through CPCAB, gaining qualifications from Level 2 through to the Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling. I’ve also undertaken additional training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and continue to develop my practice through ongoing CPD, including training focused on eating disorders.

Issues I work with

I work with a broad range of experiences and concerns, supporting adults and young people aged 13–17 with whatever they are experiencing as difficult, confusing or overwhelming right now. Below is an outline of some of the areas I can help with, though you’re welcome to reach out even if what you’re experiencing doesn’t appear on this list.

Issues I work with

Emotional wellbeing

  • Anxiety, worry, and overwhelm
  • Low mood and depression
  • Stress and burnout
  • Low self‑esteem and self‑confidence
  • Difficulty expressing or managing emotions

Relationships and connection

  • Relationship or family difficulties
  • Loneliness and isolation
  • Attachment patterns and trust issues
  • Breakups, separation, and relational loss
  • Couples therapy.

Life transitions and identity

  • Feeling stuck or unsure of direction
  • Life changes and adjustment
  • Personal growth and self‑understanding
  • Decision‑making and exploring choices

Grief and loss

  • Bereavement
  • Non‑death losses (divorce, identity changes, health changes)

Past emotional wounds

  • Internal patterns and behaviours
  • People‑pleasing
  • Perfectionism
  • Shame, guilt, and self‑criticism
  • Anger and frustration
  • Avoidance and procrastination

Wellbeing and self‑relationship

  • Body image concerns
  • Self‑care difficulties
  • Chronic stress patterns
  • Boundaries and reconnecting with needs

Member organisations

Registered / Accredited

Registered / Accredited

Being registered/accredited with a professional body means an individual must have achieved a substantial level of training and experience approved by their member organisation.

NCPS
National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS)

The National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society This Not For Profit association of counsellors and psychotherapists aim to support the counselling profession, members and training organisations. In 2013 the NCS register was accredited by the Professional Standards Authority under the Accredited Voluntary Register Scheme. Accredited by the Professional Standards Authority.

Accredited register membership

National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society
Accredited Register Scheme

The Accredited Register Scheme was set up in 2013 by the Department of Health (DoH) as a way to recognise organisations that hold voluntary registers which meet certain standards. These standards are set by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).

This therapist has indicated that they belong to an Accredited Register.

National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society

Areas of counselling I deal with

Photos & videos

Fees

£42.50 per session

Concessions offered for

  • Trainee counsellors

Additional information

I offer a free 30‑minute initial session so you can get a feel for how I work and decide whether I’m the right counsellor for you. Please call or email to book  if you try to reach me by mobile and can’t get through due to reception issues in my area, sending an email is the best way to ensure your message reaches me. I’ll always aim to respond as soon as possible.

Canvey Island, Essex, SS8

Leigh-On-Sea, Essex, SS9

Type of session

In person
Online
Phone

Types of client

Young people (13-17)
Young adults (18-24)
Adults (25-64)
Older Adults (65+)

Key details

DBS check

In England and Wales, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS, formerly known as CRB) carry out criminal records checks for individuals working with vulnerable groups, such as children. To find out more, visit gov.uk , or contact this professional directly

Online platforms

Google Meet
Whatsapp
Zoom