In-Person in Calgary, AB T2H 2K6
Online in
Alberta
Parenting can feel heavy, uncertain or at the worst of times - overwhelming. This is even more true when we're unsure about what to expect in our children around their behaviour, development, thoughts and feelings. Questions that parents often bring to therapy include: How do I respond when my child is misbehaving? What is the most effective way to teach my child skills they need in the world? Do I trust my instincts, my childhood memories or the many, many places where ideas are shared online. The most important piece to remember in all of this is that you do not have to figure this out alone. My role is to partner with families to understand what’s happening beneath the surface and develop practical strategies that create real (and lasting!) change.
Client Focus
Session Format: Couple, Family, Group, Individual sessions.
Age Specialty: Adult, Children, Teen, Young Adult
Demographic Expertise: Men, Persons with Disabilities, Women clients.
Languages: English
Treatment Approach
- Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) Helps people accept difficult thoughts and feelings instead of fighting them, while committing to actions that reflect their values. It blends mindfulness with practical behavior strategies.
- Art Therapy Uses creative activities like drawing, painting, or sculpture as a way to express emotions. It is especially helpful when words are hard to find.
- Biopsychosocial Therapy Takes into account biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding mental health. It looks at the whole person, not just symptoms.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) One of the most widely used approaches, CBT helps people identify unhelpful thoughts and replace them with healthier patterns. It is effective for anxiety, depression, and many other concerns.
- Developmental Therapy Looks at how childhood and developmental experiences affect current challenges. It aims to repair unmet needs and foster healthy growth.
- Experiential Therapy Involves hands-on activities to bring emotions into the present moment. It helps clients process feelings more deeply than through conversation alone.
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) Combines mindfulness practices with CBT to prevent depression relapse. It helps people notice thoughts without judgment and respond more calmly.
- Motivational Interviewing (MI) A collaborative, client-centered approach that strengthens motivation for change. It is especially effective for addictions and health behaviors.
- Play Therapy Uses toys, games, and creative play to help children express emotions. It is especially useful when children can’t fully verbalize their feelings.
Fees & Insurance
Fees
- Average Session Fee 230
- Out of Network
- Receipts are provided after each session, which can be used to submit to your health insurance provider for reimbursement (when applicable). As a Registered Psychologist, our services are covered by the vast majority of providers within Canada.
Education & Credentials
Melissa Clark Registered Psychologist
- Female
- License # 4080
- Licensed in Alberta
- Practicing Since 2012
Melissa Clark Practice Details
Therapy Sessions
- Available In-Person in Calgary, AB T2H 2K6
- Available Online for residents of Alberta
- Online Therapy Details: Jane
Using an attachment-informed approach, I work with parents and caregivers to strengthen relationships, support emotional regulation, and build healthier family patterns. I focus on family dynamics while developing practical strategies for daily life. My specialty areas include OCD, anxiety, PANS, family conflict, giftedness, dual diagnosis, and behavior concerns.
You may be curious as to whether your child may benefit from 1-1 counselling (using play, art or talk therapy) or whether to begin with parent support counselling. Please reach out to discuss based on your family's unique circumstances, needs and current goals - I'm happy to coach you through this decision-making process.
As a parent of three, I understand first-hand how complex and rewarding parenting can be. Supporting families through my work as a Registered Psychologist is something I genuinely look forward to each day. I invite you to reach out anytime.