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Melissa’s journey in psychology began in the military, where she provided crucial mental health support to soldiers both overseas and at home. Since then, her career has spanned diverse industries, always with a focus on proactive mental health strategies. Rather than waiting until a crisis arises, Melissa advocates for early intervention, equipping young people with the skills to manage challenges before they become overwhelming.

At the core of her message is resilience , one of Calrossy’s core values.

She defines resilience as: "The ability to tolerate feeling bad while also doing what is important in the course of the day."

Melissa emphasises that resilience grows through facing challenges, not avoiding them. She encourages parents and educators to support children through difficult situations, rather than shielding them from discomfort. Experiencing setbacks and learning to navigate them is essential for developing emotional strength and adaptability.

She will introduce practical tools, such as the Catastrophe Scale , a strategy that helps children assess the severity of a situation, improving emotional intelligence and problem-solving skills. She will also provide tips on positive self-talk, building confidence, and accessing support networks.

Ms. Julia Boland, Head of Senior School, highlighted the importance of Melissa’s visit, where she will also work with the Senior students, ahead of a parent seminar.

"This is an unmissable event for parents. Having Mel working with our Senior students in 2025 equips them with a better understanding of themselves and that asking for help is OK! Her expertise is invaluable, and we are incredibly fortunate to have her sharing her knowledge with both students and parents," says Ms Boland.

Melissa’s visit further strengthens Calrossy’s commitment to student wellbeing and holistic development, aligning with our Common Ground Project — a program designed to empower students with the skills and knowledge to navigate challenges, build resilience, and foster meaningful connections. Through structured discussions, mentoring, and practical activities, Common Ground helps students develop emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and the confidence to support themselves and others. Calrossy is one of only four schools in Australia running the program this year.

At Calrossy, wellbeing is a priority, embedded in everything we do. From our pastoral care programs to leadership initiatives, we aim to provide a nurturing environment where students feel supported, valued, and equipped to thrive—not just academically, but emotionally and socially. Melissa’s insights and expertise will complement our existing programs, reinforcing the importance of resilience, self-care, and a proactive approach to mental health.

This engaging and informative session is an opportunity for parents to gain deeper insights into supporting their children's mental wellbeing and fostering resilience in everyday life.

Calrossy is proud to offer this event not only to our parents but to the wider community.

📅 Event Details:
📍 Brisbane Street Campus
🗓️ Wednesday 26th February
⏰ 5:30pm - 7:00pm

REGISTER HERE