I am ME psychology

Get to know I am ME psychology

From I am ME psychology's website.

• Our approach

  At I am ME psychology, therapy is grounded in a holistic, compassionate, and collaborative framework that prioritizes understanding each child's unique mental and emotional needs. Sessions draw on evidence-based treatments delivered in a safe, nurturing environment where children and young people can explore their thoughts and feelings at their own pace. The team works creatively and empathetically, tailoring approaches to the individual—whether through individual therapy, play-based activities, or mindfulness techniques—and focuses on building resilience, self-awareness, and practical skills relevant to each child's life. Collaboration with parents, schools, and other professionals is central to creating supportive environments. Sessions incorporate playful activities to help younger children feel comfortable, and the therapy dog Sketch is available to add warmth and comfort throughout your child's journey.

• Working with families

  Family involvement is central to the approach at I am ME psychology. Parents and guardians attend the initial consultation (without the child for ages 13 and under), where you can discuss your concerns and ask questions about the therapeutic process. The psychologist works collaboratively with parents to jointly plan, review, and administer therapy, and parenting sessions are also available to provide guidance on understanding and managing your child's behaviour, along with practical tools for effective communication and a supportive home environment. The service actively encourages collaboration with schools and other professionals, recognising that alignment among students, schools, and families helps overcome obstacles and foster greater engagement. The team maintains transparent communication about processes from the beginning to support your child's therapeutic experience.

• Meet the team

  Therese Melhem is a Clinical Psychologist (BBSc, PGDipPsych, MClinicalPsych) and the founder of I am ME psychology. She is fully registered with the Psychology Board of Australia (AHPRA) in Clinical Psychology and is a proud member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS) and their Clinical College. With over fourteen years of experience across private, public, and government sectors, she brings deep expertise in paediatric psychology, early intervention, and supporting neurodivergent individuals including those who are autistic and ADHD. Therese conducts thorough assessments, provides individual and group interventions, and collaborates closely with families, educators, and other health professionals. The team also includes Sketch, a therapy dog who provides additional warmth and comfort during sessions.

• Your first visit

  For children 13 years and under, the initial consultation is attended by parents or guardians only, allowing you to discuss your child's developmental history, current concerns, and needs without the young person present. This gives you space to express concerns freely and to ask questions about the therapeutic or assessment process, and you'll receive guidance on how to explain the appointment to your child. For adolescents 14 years and older, both the young person and a parent or caregiver are encouraged to attend together. At the start of any initial session, the psychologist will discuss confidentiality and consent, ask several questions to understand your child's situation, and work collaboratively with you to plan next steps. Playful activities are typically incorporated to help younger children feel comfortable and familiar with the psychologist.