About Me
I was born in 1975 in Milan, a metropolis in Italy’s northern Lombardy region. I have been living in London for 28 years and I currently moved and based my work in Hove - East Sussex -.
My journey
During my life, I developed an interest in the human body, the way it functions, and the connection between the body and the mind.
I studied Anatomy and Physiology and became a Body worker. Through this experience I became aware of certain simple mechanics, learning and observing how the mind could be affected by the body and vice versa.
This acknowledgement increased my interest in the study of human psychology.
I began to study psychology at Birkbeck University of London which emphasized
my interest in the connection between body and mind.
Through this journey, I discovered my passion for counselling which enabled me to work closely with people and to to apply my knowledge of the human body and psychology combined.
During my work as a Counsellor, I could observe that the mind is influenced by a person's perception. This can be formed by various components such as past experiences, environment, culture, physical and psychological trauma, and many other individual aspects.
These characteristics will influence a person’s response, which makes us unique and diverse.
I choose to become an ‘Integrative Counsellor’ because this approach reflects my belief in the concept of uniqueness. This notion of uniqueness leads my passion towards working with ‘diversity,’ and characteristics such as culture, religion, education, and so on.
I’ve enjoyed working and learning about diversity and multicultural concepts. These are a part of a person’s identity which can influence the way you think and behave. This journey reinforced my belief and fascination in the uniqueness of all of us.
Training, Qualifications & Experience
CPCAB L4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
Couples therapy
(Certified CPD)
The Counselling Academy Toolkit
Foundation course in Psychology
(Modern Psychology and Research Methods)
Birkbeck University, London
Member Organisations
I am a member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists.
I was at such a low when I started my sessions with Melania. I'd gone through so much pain and trauma where I'd lost faith in myself and in people.
But after every session, Melania had such patience and compassion, and never stopped believing in me. And because of that, she enabled me to start believing in myself and regain the strength and confidence which I thought could never be possible. Melania is an extremely competent professional, and I shall always be grateful for her unwavering support, sincerity, and generosity.
~ L. C 2021
“Melania’s support through this difficult time helped me to learn how to cope with problems in a different and healthier way.
During my life, I often felt unsafe and vulnerable. Melania managed to make me feel understand which helped me to explore my pain by feeling safe. Throughout therapy, I felt day after day empowered, and more able to move forward in my life.
Thank you Melania Leanza for being patient with me during this difficult time“
~ H.K 2021
“I started therapy with Melania hoping to feel better. During the therapy, I had the opportunity to learn about myself and to understand my mental process that often led me to self-destruction or to tear down everything around me.
I learned with Melania, to forgive and to love myself a little more, leading me to improve the relationships around me.”