Melissa Adendorff
Melissa is an experienced addictions counsellor with a bachelor’s degree in psychology through SACAP, among a host of other qualifications including a PHD in history of ancient cultures.
Melissa has worked in a number of institutions as a counsellor and performance coach as well as in the academic environment as an editor and lecturer.
Whether in an academic, technical or counselling role, she encourages multi-disciplinary approaches. She has a special interest in issues of othering in society and believes in empowering individuals with inner and intrapersonal communication skills to allow for the development of autonomy and efficacy.
In the therapeutic environment, she is skilled in individual and group therapy, psychosocial and development counselling, trauma debriefing and support for individuals and groups.
Melissa is involved in several extramural activities including ballet, martial arts and indoor climbing.
She has been in stable recovery from active addiction for eight years.
The most incredible reward in the line of work I’m in is seeing when patients start to believe that change is possible, that they can do better for themselves, and that I get be present for their journey towards self-love.
Did you know Changes Rehab is accredited by all major healthcare associations and national health organisations and adheres to internal protocols that far exceed the codes of conduct or norms and standards for effective treatment of patients with addictions and other mental health issues.
Premium South African Medical Aid associations pay for patient treatment for the first 21 days in our private primary care facility in Johannesburg.
Changes addiction counsellors are registered professionals who use a proven track record and therapeutic techniques to help your loved one overcome their addiction. With expertise and compassionate approaches, we are able to guide individuals towards leading a healthy, normal life, free from addiction.
Worried About a Loved One?
Our dedicated team is here to provide the support and guidance you need to help your loved ones on the path to recovery.
Free and confidential- Available 24/7
- Access to professional treatment
You don't have to do this alone. Speak to one of our experienced counsellors today.
With over 100 years of collective experience, the majority of the Changes Multidisciplinary Addiction Counselling Team has faced addiction firsthand. They not only hold the qualifications but also possess the personal experience to truly understand and assist loved ones that are struggling through addiction. It is a privilege to work alongside some of the best counselling minds in South Africa.
Sheryl Rahme
Founder & Director
Head of Treatment for Primary Care
Gareth Carter
Director
Internationally Qualified Counsellor
Kate Saxton
Group Practice Director
Counselling Psychologist
Dr. Thea van der Merwe
Resident Psychiatrist
Dr. Rajesh Bhoola
Group Medical Practitioner
Lolly Kikine
Occupational Therapist
Christianne Jones
Counselling Psychologist
Carmen Du Toit
Head of Treatment at River Manor
Skye Warrener
Addictions Counsellor
Melissa Adendorff
Registered Counsellor
Otsile Ramarumo
Recovery Assistant
Brian Muhumuza
Addictions Counsellor
Ingrid Ter Horst
Recovery Assistant
Dominique Roussouw
Social Worker
Bruce Hesom
Intake Coordinator
JP Le Roux
Recovery Assistant
Tanya Figueiredo
Office Manager
The day I first came to Changes, I was shown around and knew then that our daughter needed to in the best care possible. Changes team members understood her needs even before meeting her. Thank you for everything.
★★★★★I am now 2 years, 10 months and 19 days clean and sober, thanks to Changes rehab. Some of the main points I was suggested to do were to play the movie through and live life for today.
★★★★★If Amy W wanted to go to Rehab then it would have been Changes! I had no idea what rehabilitation and treatment was but when I arrived, I didn't realise how broken and in need of repair I was.
★★★★★Thank you to everyone at Changes who helped my daughter through this difficult time. They not only helped her but kept in constant contact with me, updating me on her progress and checking up on how I was doing.
★★★★★My son was on the brink of destruction, but Changes stepped in. Their comprehensive approach and dedicated staff transformed him into a person I never thought I'd see again. Thank you for giving me my son back.
★★★★★I was fortunate to be a patient at Changes for 90 days. I did treatment at both the primary and secondary facility. It really changed my life. I owe so much gratitude to my counsellors and the staff.
★★★★★My nephew has been battling drug addiction for years and was isolating. Since he went to Changes Rehab, he is no longer isolating. He engages with us and has been sober. We got one of our own back.
★★★★★I cannot thank Changes enough for all the support, help and encouragement they have given my son. From primary to secondary to the halfway house, he has been treated with respect and care throughout.
★★★★★I came to Changes a complete wreck. Didn’t want to do anything about my drug addiction. I fought the system for as long as I could but eventually my mind was changed about what I had to do.
★★★★★Came out of Changes Rehab on Tuesday. Best decision I could have ever made. After looking at other rehabs, this was my choice. The whole experience and program were top class. Extremely professional team.
★★★★★Compassionate. Understanding. Respectful. Motivational. Professional medical and counselling care. Complete education about addiction and the solution. Best family support system in South Africa!.
★★★★★My first interaction with Changes gave me peace of mind. I knew that they would help. Thank you for looking after my son so well. You made a world of difference, not only in his life but also mine.
★★★★★