Melissa Lavoie
M.ED, RSW
Melissa Lavoie has been a Registered Social Worker (RSW) and a member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers since 2020. Melissa holds a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology (2010) from the University of Ottawa and has over 14 years of experience providing social services to children, youth, and their caregivers.
Melissa has dedicated her work to supporting children and youth involved in the child welfare system. Her passion lies in fostering post-traumatic growth in children, youth, and their families. Currently, Melissa works full-time at CHEO’s Outpatient Mental Health Clinic, helping children, youth, and their families navigate the aftermath of traumatic experiences.
At Davis Counselling, Melissa practices psychotherapy and counselling for children, youth, and their caregivers dealing with a wide range of mental health concerns. Melissa’s therapeutic approach is person-centered, anti-oppressive, strength-based, and trauma-informed. She uses an integrative approach that allows for the development of an individualized treatment plan. Many of these approaches stem from polyvagal informed theory and exploring how stress or potentially traumatic events impact the body, mind and spirit.
Melissa offers the following evidence based modalities;
Brainspotting
Polyvagal-Informed Theory in Practice
Polyvagal-Informed Play Therapy
Exposure Therapy
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Motivational Interviewing
Narrative Therapy
Solution Focused Therapy
Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS)
Melissa is dedicated to empowering individuals and families to overcome challenges and achieve lasting growth. She prioritizes the therapeutic relationship and supports people in building their own self-awareness to support their path to safety and connection.
Melissa offers virtual and in-person care.
