My name is Saida Melgar

I am an integrative psychotherapeutic counsellor with a MA in Counselling and psychotherapy, a BSc(Hons) in Psychology, and membership in the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. I bring both professional expertise and personal experience into my practice. As a neurodivergent individual with a multicultural background, I offer a diverse and inclusive approach to counselling.

My education and training covers a wide range of therapeutic approaches, including Person- centered, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and trauma-informed care. I have a background working within mental health care within NHS, private psychiatric hospital and non-profitable charities. This have given me a wealth of experience with a wide range of people and issues.

As an integrative counsellor, I blend various therapeutic techniques to tailor our sessions to your unique needs and goals. I place a strong emphasis on nurturing a therapeutic relationship where you, as my client, feel secure and supported in exploring your inner self, past experiences, and emotions. I provide a non-judgmental and welcoming environment to foster self-awareness, self-acceptance, and personal growth. Together, we delve into your past experiences, gaining a deeper understanding of their impact on your present life. We work collaboratively to identify and implement effective strategies and coping skills to manage distress, regulate difficult emotions, and enhance your mental well-being.

My love for music, dance, and visual arts are an integral part of my approach. I believe that incorporating art into counselling can be incredibly beneficial. It can serve as a means to express and regulate emotions, access memories, and promote mindfulness and embodiment. I encourage my clients to explore artistic techniques, but only if they are comfortable doing so. I am bilingual fluent in Finnish and English and I have my roots in Finland and Spain. I mainly grew up in Helsinki, Finland, but I have lived in short periods in Hungary, Spain, and Holland. Now I have settled in Bristol where I completed my university degrees.

As a neurodivergent individual, I celebrate diversgence and am sensitive to the challenges it can present. I am dedicated to providing neurodiversity-affirming therapy, where I acknowledge and respect individual differences in mental and neurological functioning.