We are delighted to welcome our new counselor, Melanie Ersapah, M.S., to Tokyo Mental Health’s growing team of service providers!
Melanie received her Masters of Science in Counselling and Psychotherapy from Keele University in the U.K. She has worked with adults and young people with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, bereavement, work stress and relationship issues. She gained her experience working in a local charity based in Greater London. She worked with a variety of clients from a range of backgrounds and needs. Therefore, she is aware of the effects that race, culture, gender identity, sexuality, disability, socioeconomic factors, and their intersections can have on clients’ lived experiences. She is considerate of how these experiences can affect mental health and the therapeutic relationship. As a mixed-race counsellor who identifies as female and has experience living in various countries across the globe, she is also aware of how challenging it can be to navigate differences in culture and issues that can arise from living abroad.
Melanie Ersapah is a person-centered therapist who incorporates mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) practices into her work to suit her clients’ needs. She also has qualifications in online therapy and understands that there is a high-demand for online services presently. She believes it is important to adapt and change to work with clients’ needs and is always striving to learn more to improve her practice for her clients.
We asked Melanie some questions to get to know her better…read more below!
What do you enjoy most about being a therapist?
I think the most rewarding thing about being a therapist is being able to empower clients to grow and change and achieve their goals.
As a person-centered therapist, I believe that the client is the expert in their own life and experience, so I really enjoy being able to be a part of their journey of self-exploration. I often like to think of myself as a mirror that allows clients to see themselves in a new light. I think seeing clients discovering themselves and accepting who they are along their journey is a wonderful experience and a privilege to witness.
What are your hobbies?
I like to do a variety of things in my free time. One thing I have always loved to do is cook. Cooking is an activity that allows me to focus on the task at hand without thinking too much about anything other than the delicious food I’ll be able to eat once I’m done. I like to challenge myself cooking a variety of cuisines and even attempt to bake desserts every once in a while.
Beyond cooking, I like to relax by journaling and using crystals. I find journaling about my thoughts and feelings can really make a difference in my mood. I also like to use crystals while I journal or meditate to help me focus.
When I have the opportunity for a holiday, I often try to connect with nature by walking or sometimes hiking. I think Japan in particular has some wonderful places to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.
