About
Melissa Smith
This online platform is directed at inspiring women to take back the power and invest in their mental health. We have the responsibility to make sure we are taking care of ourselves. We have a generation looking at us and we need to set the example and keep growing to reach our full potential.
I love seeing woman make a decision to choose themselves and make their mental health a priority. We live in a generation where people are often selfish and expect us as woman to be everyone's savior. We need to stand up for ourselves and be patient with ourselves. Healing, growing and becoming a better version of yourself will take time and a space to do so. I hope you feel welcomed in this space.
“For me, becoming isn’t about arriving somewhere or achieving a certain aim. I see it instead as forward motion, a means of evolving, a way to reach continuously toward a better self. The journey doesn’t end.”― Michelle Obama, Becoming
Experience
Background and experience.
I am a Registered Counsellor with the Health professions council of South Africa.
I am currently a school counsellor at a primary school, and on weekends I do private practice.
Most of my experience is in the field of trauma, addiction and education. I have worked in many communities within the city of Cape Town. I have seen the need present itself in many shapes and forms. Also, I had the privilege of working in a multi-disciplinary team of psychologists, both educational and counselling, psychiatrists, doctors and special needs educators.
Before I graduated, I did a practicum at the department of education based in Cape Town, South Africa and a local clinic in one of the communities. Upon doing this, I have discovered the stigma behind mental health.
Most of the woman I have met has given the power to circumstances, a spouse or even their kids to decide how they would handle their mental health. As women we can equip ourselves with the necessary tools to be the best version of ourselves regardless of our circumstances.
My goal in life has always been to empower and motivate others to be the best version of themselves. When we can be our true authentic selves, we can see the power of our vulnerability.
I believe in each one, reach one philosophy. If we can make a difference in one person's life, why not. I am here for that one person that needs to sit in the mirror and have that uncomfortable conversation with themselves like I had to do many times and realize it is time to handle your business and get your mental health in shape. As we grow, we glow gracefully and find our diamond in the rough.
Qualifications
2022 - Present
I am currently providing psycho-social support to University students in higher education. I also did 2years at a local school as a school counsellor. One of my favorite is the role I play in community work, taking mental health to the streets.
2020-2021
Worked as a School counsellor.
2018-2019
Completed my Honours in psychology and practicum
Received registration with the Health professions council of South Africa
2017
Graduated with my Degree in Psychology
2019
Did an internship at Department of Education
Did an internship at a local clinic
@ggtherapywithmel