Melanie Poland

I currently have spaces available for new counselling clients.

Taking the first step towards counselling can sometimes feel difficult. My aim is to provide a warm, compassionate, non-judgemental and confidential space where you can feel heard, understood and supported.

I offer face-to-face and online therapy, Monday to Thursday between 9am and 5pm. I can also provide evening sessions.

If you are thinking about starting counselling and would like to find out more, please feel free to contact Cherish Counselling NI 💜on melanie@cherishcounsellingni.com or call on 07523 170016

My name is Melanie Poland, and I am the founder of Cherish Counselling NI.

I believe that everyone deserves a safe and compassionate space where they can feel heard, understood and accepted without judgement. My approach to counselling is warm, supportive and person-centred, recognising that every individual comes to therapy with their own experiences, needs and story.

I aim to build a trusting therapeutic relationship where you can explore difficult emotions and experiences at your own pace. Whether you are going through a particularly challenging period, struggling with your emotional wellbeing, or simply feel that something needs to change, counselling can offer you the time and space to focus on yourself.

About Cherish Counselling NI

Cherish Counselling NI is my private therapy practice, created to provide a welcoming, confidential and supportive environment for people seeking counselling.

I offer both face-to-face and online therapy, providing greater flexibility depending on your circumstances and what feels most comfortable for you.

My current working hours are:

Monday to Thursday | 9am to 5pm

I currently have availability for new clients.

If you are considering counselling, you are welcome to get in touch to find out more about how I work and whether I may be the right counsellor for you.

You don't have to face everything alone. Sometimes having a safe space to talk can be the first step towards understanding, healing and positive change.

With over 12 years’ experience working in the field of addiction, I bring a wealth of knowledge and understanding to my therapeutic work. My experience also includes supporting people affected by dual diagnosis, trauma, chronic pain and pain management, mental health issues, relationship difficulties, stress-related difficulties, and the impact addiction can have on individuals and their families.

As a trauma-informed integrative therapist, I draw primarily on person-centred and psychodynamic approaches, adapting therapy to the individual needs and experiences of each client. I believe that developing a safe, trusting and non-judgemental therapeutic relationship is an important part of the counselling process.

Together, we can explore what is happening in your life now while also considering how earlier experiences and relationships may influence the way you think, feel and relate to others today. This can help identify recurring patterns of behaviour and relationships, develop greater self-awareness, and create opportunities for meaningful and lasting change.

Alongside individual therapy, I also provide psychoeducational groups for people affected by addiction and for family members living with or supporting someone experiencing addiction. These groups provide information, practical tools and a supportive environment to help people better understand addiction, its impact on relationships and family life, and the importance of their own wellbeing.

At Cherish Counselling NI, my aim is to provide a compassionate, confidential and supportive space where you can feel heard and respected as you work through the difficulties you are experiencing.

Our first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and for me to develop a greater understanding of what is happening for you right now and what has brought you to counselling.

I will complete an initial assessment with you, exploring areas such as your current circumstances, emotional wellbeing, relationships, previous experiences and what you would like to gain from therapy.

Where appropriate, we may gently consider previous trauma or difficult life experiences and how these may be affecting your thoughts, feelings, relationships or behaviours today. You will not be expected to discuss anything you are not ready to explore. We will work at a pace that feels manageable and safe for you.

The first session is also your opportunity to ask questions and get a sense of whether you feel comfortable working with me. Together, we can begin to identify what you would like support with and agree on a therapeutic approach that reflects your individual needs.

There is no pressure to tell your whole story in the first session. Therapy is a process, and we can take the time you need.