Melanie Neufeld | Counselor
Schedule with Mel here.
As a dedicated biblical counselor, I approach my practice with a holistic perspective, caring for the spiritual and bodily experience of everyone I see. I have the privilege of guiding women who have experienced trauma, abuse, sexual assault, and various perinatal and postpartum mood struggles. My work extends to addressing infertility, grief from infant loss and abortion, and pornography addiction. Additionally, I offer support to children in elementary school and older, assisting them with grief, anxiety, anger, and friendships. Currently, I do not counsel in crisis or suicidal ideation.
My counseling philosophy is rooted in the belief that we are created as embodied souls, with our physical and emotional responses deeply interconnected. I strive to help clients develop effective coping strategies that foster rest and peace through a profound connection with God. I seek to be relational and open in my care for others while ministering the love, mercy, and grace of God to each person I see. I model my counseling approach after 2 Corinthians 1. Our suffering is the means by which we receive comfort from God, and it is for the good of others that we can then minister that same comfort.
I am a certified biblical counselor through the Association of Biblical Counselors, and a Level 2 Certified Christian Trauma Care Provider with the Christian Trauma Healing Network. I have completed additional trauma training through Arizona Trauma Institute. I am currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba, I am passionate about growing the presence of biblical counseling within Canadian church communities. I live with my husband and our four young children, along with three embryos. In my leisure time, I enjoy playing with my children, savoring coffee with friends, reading, crocheting stuffed animals, and cleaning while listening to Charlotte Dobre on YouTube.
Email Mel: mel@gospelcarecollective.org
More about Mel…
What led you to become a counselor?
My journey into counseling began during my second pregnancy when I was grappling with severe perinatal anxiety, depression, and postpartum struggles. Facing a lengthy waitlist for specialized mental health care in my city, I found support through a biblical counselor. The guidance and care I received during this difficult time were transformative, and I felt a deep calling to offer the same compassionate support to others in my community.
What do you enjoy most about your work as a counselor?
The most fulfilling aspect of my work is witnessing the transformative power of God in the lives of those I counsel. It is a profound honor to accompany individuals through their most vulnerable and challenging moments, seeing firsthand how God’s presence and healing can bring about remarkable change and restoration.
How do you take care of your own mental and emotional well-being?
I prioritize self-care by embracing my own limitations and allowing myself to be imperfect. I find solace in spending time with God, having hobbies I am committed to, as well as meeting my practical needs. Engaging in joyful activities with loved ones, such as enjoying coffee with friends and spending quality time with my children, helps me maintain balance and perspective. I also strive to keep life light-hearted and avoid becoming overly serious.
Do you have any specific areas of expertise or personal interests within counseling?
I have a deep passion for working with children, inspired by Jesus’ call to not hinder them from going to him. Helping young individuals find their voices and bring their experiences to God is incredibly rewarding. Additionally, I have a focused interest in trauma and abuse. I work extensively with survivors of sexual and domestic abuse. I am dedicated to helping individuals reframe their relationship with their bodies as safe and good, reflecting God’s design for us as embodied souls.
What are your favorite books or resources related to counseling or personal growth?
- How People Change by Timothy Lane and Paul Tripp
- Is It Abuse? By Darby Strickland
- Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlund
- Embodied by Gregg Allison
- On the Threshold of Hope by Diane Langberg
- Caring for the Souls of Children edited by Amy Baker
How do you integrate your faith or spirituality into your personal life?
Living my identity of Christ is central to my life. I rely on His grace and mercy for daily strength and peace. Being actively involved in my church community and nurturing relationships with others helps me remain grounded in humble reliance on God. These practices support me in all aspects of life, ensuring that my faith is a constant source of guidance and comfort.
What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of your counseling work?
Outside of my counseling practice, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, whether dating my husband or playing with our toddlers. I enjoy simple hobbies like crocheting, embroidery, reading, and cooking. My favourite hobby lately is putting on some noise cancelling headphones and listening to Charlotte Dobre read reddit stories while cleaning my home.
Are there any personal experiences or life lessons that have shaped your approach to counseling?
My own experience as a counselee has profoundly shaped my approach to counseling. The counseling room was where I first deeply experienced God’s love, grace, and mercy. This personal insight drives my compassionate and prayerful approach, allowing me to connect with clients’ experiences and offer gentle, empathetic support. I am mindful of the delicate nature of working through brokenness and ensure a pace that respects each individual’s journey.
How do you handle stress or challenges in your life?
I consciously seek peace and comfort from God during stressful times, taking moments to step back from the busyness and connect with my experiences rather than suppressing them. I’ve also learned to depend on others, openly communicating with my husband, reaching out to friends and church members, and accepting help when offered. This approach has been invaluable in managing stress and maintaining emotional well-being.
What is one piece of advice or wisdom you find yourself sharing often with clients?
I frequently turn to Hebrews 4 when guiding clients through their struggles. In moments of brokenness and suffering, it’s essential to remember that our ability to approach Christ with confidence is rooted in our shared suffering. Christ’s compassion for us is grounded in His understanding of our pain, making Him a source of comfort and hope rather than condemnation.