Dr Melissa J Ree
Clinical Psychologist
BSc(Hons) MPsych (Clinical) PhD
Melissa sees adults

My main specialty is in the psychological management of adults with Insomnia and sleep difficulties. I also see many patients who are struggling with anxiety problems, low mood, and low self esteem. 

Generally, my approach to psychological treatment is 'here and now' focussed, although past issues will be discussed when appropriate. I use evidence based treatments such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

I will ask you to have an active role in determining your goals and the direction treatment takes. After most sessions you will be given something to read, or something to write/think about, or together we might suggest trailing a new strategy or way of approaching things. Implementing new strategies can be challenging  and time will be spent in sessions helping you to find ways to approach things differently. Usually the treatment will not take a lot of time during the week but giving some time to meeting your goals is important for maximising treatment effectiveness. 

A little about my background...I completed a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology and a Ph.D. with distinction at UWA in 2001.  I then worked at the University of Oxford as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Psychiatry. During this time, I worked on a treatment trial of Cognitive Therapy for Chronic Insomnia. Since returning to Perth I have continued to be active in treatment, training, and research into psychological aspects of insomnia, anxiety, and depression. I have published a number of papers on the subject and have written two treatment protocols for Insomnia.
I've worked in both clinical and research roles at private psychiatric hospitals in Perth, and have been in private practice since 2004. I am a mum to three lovely children and now work part-time. 

I enjoy being active in the research arena. I am involved in supervision of postgraduate university student projects and I collaborate with universities on research projects. You can see my publications here. Research Gate
Main areas of practice
  • Insomnia and Sleep difficulties 
  • Panic attacks and panic disorder
  • Social anxiety
  • Managing worry (generalised anxiety)
  • Stress management
  • Depression
  • Enhancing low self esteem
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