Melanie Baker
MSW, RSW
My name is Melanie, and I’m a social worker and neurodivergent psychotherapist providing virtual psychotherapy in Ontario.
I support neurodivergent women aged 25+ who want to address neurodivergent burnout, let go of codependent patterns, build confidence and self-trust, unpack and process trauma, and move towards the life you want for yourself.
My approach weaves together information, practical skill building, and exploration. Along the way, we’ll probably discuss things like:
What trauma is neurobiologically, and how we can work to get you unstuck from it
The strugglebus your nervous system is on every day, and finding effective tools to improve the ride
Your values, interests, and identity
Setting boundaries with others and ourselves
What the fuck it actually means to feel your feelings (whether they’re unbearably loud, stuck on mute, or confusingly…both?) and why it even matters
Navigating the complicated, contradictory, and messy experience of being a human in the midst of change
Working from trauma and attachment lenses means that our work will move at whatever pace it needs to, we’ll practice skills to help you in the present while figuring out how all the patterns connect, and we’ll build a genuine relationship that celebrates your wins and supports you through losses.
My sessions are a space that welcomes taking chances, making mistakes, getting curious, and finding out just how resourceful you already are.
My Approach
I don’t work from a single therapy model; instead, I flexibly draw from my training in multiple evidence-based models that support change and healing, including:
Acceptance & Commitment Therapy
Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment
Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy
EMDR
DBT Skills
Solution Focused Brief Therapy
Somatic Embodiment
I also have experience working with many comorbidities that arise within the umbrella of neurodivergence, including addictions & compulsive behaviours, OCD, and eating disorders.
More About Me
As an AuDHDer myself, I have a revolving carousel of my hobbies and interests. I love to learn as much as I love Broadway musicals, and I’m often knitting something or playing Disney’s Dreamlight Valley, accompanied by my very small dog and two large cats.
As a therapist, you can expect me to make (probably outdated) pop culture references, swear often, and get invested in your special interests and hyperfixations.
Qualifications
EMDR Basic Training
Ontario College Of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (# 849176)
Healing Begins with Understanding
Book a free consultation to understand how ASR Counselling and Psychotherapy’s trauma and attachment-focused therapy services can contribute to your emotional well-being.