Melanie Schranz

Melanie has a deep understanding of trauma and how it can shape your life, whether it started in childhood, in an abusive relationship, or during years of service as a first responder or veteran. Maybe it still shows up in how you react, who you let in, or how hard it is to switch off at the end of the day. She’s also passionate about supporting you as you explore your gender identity or sexual orientation, helping you figure out who you are and how you want to live your life, then take real steps toward being your most authentic self. As a member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community herself, Melanie brings that lived understanding into every session. She works with couples as well, helping partners get to the root of what’s really going on, like years of resentment, infidelity, or navigating an open or polyamorous relationship. She also helps with anxiety, depression, and workplace stress, especially on the days when getting out of bed feels like a lot.

Sessions with Melanie feel like the kind of conversation where you can finally say the things you’ve never said out loud to anyone. She’s warm and easy to talk to, and she’ll gently challenge you when you’re ready. She’s also spent a lot of time supporting people with ADHD and autism, and she’s happy to keep things more direct and structured if that works better for you. Melanie won’t call it homework, but you’ll leave with something to work on, like a conversation you’re ready to have with someone you love, knowing you can talk it through with her next time. Clients often walk away feeling hopeful, with a real sense of where they’re headed. Through her time at Durham Community Health Centre, Melanie has seen how much can change when people feel free to be themselves. Wherever you’re starting from, she’s here to help you feel more at home in your own life.

Melanie is happiest outside, wandering through a ravine or spending time by the water. At home, you’ll usually find her dog, Mickey, curled up on her lap. She loves all kinds of music (R&B was her first love) and is always drawn to the story behind the lyrics. When she gets the chance, she’s reading a biography or a book set in another time or culture. It’s a lot like her work as a therapist: she believes every person has a story worth understanding.