Melanie Michelson

I currently have limited availability on Thursday's for face2face sessions in my practice room located in NW5. 

I also have daytime availability on Friday’s for Outdoor therapy on the Heath. 

I offer online sessions on either of these days.

You may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, low, or unsure about how to move forward in your life. Perhaps something has shifted recently, or you may be carrying experiences from the past that still feel present today. You don’t need to have everything figured out before coming to therapy - we can begin wherever you are.

I am a Person-Centred counsellor and psychotherapist working in North London, around Kentish Town and the area of Hampstead Heath. My approach is grounded in building a genuine therapeutic relationship where you feel heard, accepted, and able to explore your experiences without judgement.

I am trauma-informed and have a strong interest in Attachment Theory, which explores how early relationships shape our connection to ourselves and others. I also draw on aspects of Internal Family Systems (IFS), which helps us understand and respond compassionately to different parts of ourselves.

Alongside talking therapy, I work with the body and what is often called the felt sense - subtle physical sensations that give insight into emotions and experience. Creative materials can also be offered for expression beyond words. Outdoor sessions in the natural surroundings of Hampstead Heath or Highgate wood can feel grounding, spacious, and rich with metaphor, supporting reflection and new perspectives. Outdoor work can be especially helpful for trauma-sensitive or neurodivergent clients.

At times therapy can feel powerful and illuminating; at other times it may feel challenging or slow. My aim is to provide a steady, supportive presence as we navigate whatever arises together.

I believe everyone has the capacity for healing and growth when the right conditions are present. Within a therapeutic relationship grounded in empathy, acceptance, and understanding, it is possible to explore past and present experiences with compassion and clarity.

I work one-to-one with adults and offer flexible options: sessions in a private therapy room, outdoors in nature, or remotely via online or telephone. Outdoor work offers a different rhythm, where walking or being in natural surroundings can create space for insight and reflection. Many clients find this grounding and helpful for making sense of difficult emotions. 

I recognise that choosing a therapist and reaching out for the first time can feel like a significant step. Taking time to find someone you feel comfortable with is an important part of the process.

After our introductory call, I will invite you to an initial session in my practice room or online via Zoom. This session is offered at a reduced rate. Please contact me for information about fees and availability.

The first session is an opportunity to meet, share what has brought you to therapy, and explore whether working together feels right. We will go at a pace that is comfortable for you, and there is no pressure to share more than feels safe.

If you decide to continue, I will send further information about my practice via email along with a couple of forms to complete before our next session. There is no obligation to continue after this first meeting.