Melissa, or Mel (she/her), is passionate about helping people improve their health and wellbeing through food. She has a strong interest in chronic disease management, supporting clients living with diabetes, cardiovascular conditions (including high blood pressure and high cholesterol), malnutrition, general bowel health concerns, and liver and kidney disorders.

Mel takes a holistic and collaborative approach to care, helping people understand how nutrition influences long-term health while working with their individual goals, preferences, and lifestyles. She recognises that food choices can be complex and aims to provide a non-judgemental, inclusive, and compassionate space for every client.

Her practice is grounded in Motivational Interviewing and the Non-Diet Approach, supporting sustainable, evidence-based behaviour change through mindful eating, body respect, and self-compassion, rather than focusing on weight.

Outside of Balance North, Mel has been involved in research exploring the Mediterranean diet and its impact on cognitive function and mental health, as well as studies examining how regenerative farming can influence gut microbiome diversity. These experiences have deepened her interest in the connection between nutrition, gut and bowel health, and chronic disease prevention.