Melanie Hocking , AASW

Melanie Hocking is an AASW social worker with 20 years of experience who supports people facing trauma, grief, parenting strains, low self-esteem and major life changes. She is comfortable talking about perinatal mental health and women's issues, and she helps people find steadier ground when things feel overwhelming.

Melanie keeps sessions direct and compassionate. She aims to create a calm space where people can say what they think and feel without judgment. Conversations focus on practical steps as well as understanding patterns that keep problems repeating.

When grief or past abuse shapes daily life, Melanie helps clients name the impact and learn coping skills. For parents she offers strategies to manage stress and to balance caring for others with self-care. She also supports people dealing with panic, mood shifts, or social anxiety by breaking problems into manageable tasks.

Melanie uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques suited to each person. She and the client decide together which approaches to try, and she adapts methods to fit real life demands. Her work often blends emotional processing with practical tools for change.

Sessions are offered in English and conducted online by video, phone, live chat or text messaging. Melanie describes the first step as courageous and stays alongside people as they try new ways of coping and relating to themselves.

Evidence-based approaches and online therapy

Melanie commonly uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques that focus on processing difficult experiences and building everyday coping skills. One approach helps people process trauma and strong emotions by naming what happened and how it affects reactions today; this can reduce distress and make daily life feel more manageable. Another approach emphasises practical coping strategies - such as breathing and grounding for panic, routine changes for mood regulation, and small behavioural steps to reduce avoidance - that people can use between sessions.

Choosing the right method is a collaborative process. Melanie works with each client to identify goals, preferences and what feels doable. Together they trial techniques and adjust the plan so it fits the client’s life and priorities.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat and text-based messaging. Video is useful for in-depth conversations and visual connection. Phone sessions can be easier when bandwidth is limited or when a shorter check-in is needed. Live chat and text messaging suit quick reflections between sessions or when writing feels more comfortable. These options make therapy more flexible and help people fit support around work, parenting and other commitments.