Melissa is Programme leader for the MA art therapy. She has an integrative approach and utilises a range of creative modalities which include traditional art making, photo art therapy, meditation, embodiment, social dreaming, outdoor art therapy and nature-based practices. With 15 years experience working as an Art psychotherapist with both children and adults. She has worked within a diverse range of settings which include mainstream and alternative provision primary and secondary schools, bereavement, adoption, looked-after services, domestic abuse, homelessness, and mental health. 

Working as a clinical supervisor she has supported Art therapists, drama therapists and creative counsellors. She has delivered training for BAAT and lectured in Art therapy at Leeds Beckett University, Lancaster University, and Blackpool and the Fylde college. Melissa is the external examiner for the Art psychotherapy programme at USW.

She has presented at the European Federation of Art Therapists International Conference, and the International Forum for Art Therapy Education.