Mel Walker
Mental Health Accredited Social Worker
Hello and Welcome!
My name is Mel, founder of the Anxiety and Wellness Clinic, based in North Adelaide. I am a Mental Health Accredited Social Worker and am registered through the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW). I have a bachelor's degree in both Social Work and International Relations.
I have over 10 years of experience working with children, teenagers, and their families, and 8 years of experience working in various adult and youth mental health services. Currently, I split my time between being a mum to my 2-year-old daughter and working at my private practice.
In my early 20s, I experienced multiple episodes of extreme anxiety. This lived experience and my recovery journey fueled my passion for working in the field of mental health and working in partnership with people to build their mental, emotional, physical, and social wellbeing. I specialise in anxiety, overwhelm, burnout, stress, and regulating the nervous system, and I have a special interest in trauma, depression, and peri-natal mental wellbeing. I support both adolescents and adults, from the age of 12+.
As a clinician, I believe in a holistic and client-centred approach, integrating evidence-based practices with a deep respect for each individual's unique journey. My goal is to create a safe, nurturing space where you feel heard, valued, and empowered to make positive changes.
Outside of my professional life, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, as well as anything nature related - particularly hiking, camping, and spending time outdoors. I also enjoy travelling, practising mindfulness, meditation, black and white film photography and reading sci-fi / fantasy books. These activities help me maintain my own wellbeing and stay grounded.
What is a Mental Health Accredited Social Worker?
Accredited Mental Health Social Workers (AMHSWs) are recognised providers with Medicare Australia and other programs, delivering clinical social work services in mental health settings and utilising a range of evidence-based strategies.
AMHSWs work with people across the lifespan (including children, adults and older persons) and provide a unique contribution to the mental health space in their holistic approach to working with a person.
The advanced training that is expected of AMHSW prepares and provides them with the skills for working with people with very complex presentations and co-morbidities. AMHSWs are highly trained and educated professionals, meeting some of the highest standards of professional regulation in Australia.
Accredited Mental Health Social Workers have a breadth of experience in assessing and treating people who have mental health disorders … They help individuals to resolve presenting psychological problems, the associated social and other environmental problems, and improve their quality of life … Like other allied health professionals, such as psychologists, Accredited Mental Health Social Workers use a range of interventions and focused psychological strategies.
- AASW 2021, Mental Health Accredited Social Workers, viewed 01/11/21, <https://www.aasw.asn.au/information-for-the-community/accredited-mental-health-social-workers>
The Anxiety and Wellness Clinic acknowledges the Kaurna people as the custodians of the lands and waters of the Adelaide region. We pay respect to elders past, present, and emerging. We acknowledge and respect the Kaurna people’s emotional, physical, and spiritual connection with their country and communities.
The Anxiety and Wellness Clinic also celebrates diversity in our community and aims to provide an inclusive space for the LGBTQA+ and Intersex community. We also strive to offer a disability-friendly service.