Melena John (she/they) is a trainee Counselling Psychologist currently in her second year of the Doctorate in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy by Professional Studies (DCPsych) at the Metanoia Institute, in collaboration with Middlesex University.

Melena’s approach draws from several therapeutic models, including person-centred, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioural, and creative therapies. This integrative foundation allows her to adapt her work to each client’s unique needs, helping them feel seen, heard, and supported.

Warm, curious, and compassionate, Melena brings a thoughtful presence into her sessions. Clients and colleagues often describe her as comforting, understanding, and easy to connect with, qualities that create a safe and non-judgemental space for reflection and growth. She also welcomes conversations around challenging social issues and the broader impact of systemic and interpersonal oppression.

Melena has a strong academic and professional background in psychology, with over 14 years of study and experience in the field. She has worked as an assistant psychologist across various organisations and volunteered as a mental health assistant during her undergraduate degree in Psychology with Counselling Skills. In 2020, she completed a master’s in the Psychology of the Arts, Neuroaesthetics, and Creativity, deepening her interest in how creative processes can support emotional wellbeing.

Her motivation to become a therapist is rooted in her own life experiences. Having navigated trauma in her early years and experienced the transformative power of counselling first-hand, Melena is passionate about helping others find understanding, healing, and self-acceptance through therapy.

Melena works with adults and young adults, supporting those experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, low self-esteem, identity or life direction challenges, and trauma.

She offers face-to-face and online sessions on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 11am–7pm.

If you’d like to work with Melena, please complete our low-cost counselling form and mention her as your preferred therapist.