About Melissa

Melissa Ferreira  is a registered Educational Psychologist & has been in private practice for 12 years. Melissa completed her undergraduate studies at Stellenbosch University obtaining the following qualifications: B.Ed. Psych Honours, Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) & BA Social Dynamics (Psychology & Sociology).

After qualifying as a high school educator, school counsellor and registered Psychometrist, Melissa worked at a prestigious semi-private girls high school in Cape Town as School Counsellor & Life Orientation educator. Melissa was also selected as a Life Line Counsellor in Cape Town.

 

Melissa then went on to successfully complete the University of the Free State’s Masters programme in applied psychology. The year long training of the three registration categories (Educational, Clinical & Counselling) were completely integrated in terms of academic and practical training. Resulting in the acquisition of broader knowledge & practice in the field of applied psychology. Melissa is therefore well equipped & experienced to consult with adults, adolescents & children.

The completion of the internship year took place at the UFS in Bloemfontein, working at various mainstream schools, special needs schools, a drug rehabilitation centre, as well as at the UFS Student Counselling and Development Centre.

Melissa's Masters research focus involved adolescents’ experience of the formation of relationships on MXit (MXit is a type of CMC- Computer Mediated Communication). Melissa has a particular affinity with the needs of youth in the 21st Century & assisting clients with continual self improvement and maintaining healthy & fulfilling relationships.

 Melissa is also a certified Animal Assisted Therapist & obtained a Diploma in Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) through the Centre of Excellence (UK) in 2022 (with a 99% aggregate). The immense benefit of connection with animals as part of healing & maintaining a healthy mental state, is something Melissa highly emphasizes.

Melissa is currently consulting at rooms in Claremont, Cape Town at Dr. Mark Tunbridge & Associates Registered Psychologists Cape Town