Melanie, like many women, is a survivor of sexual trauma. She understands the nuances involved in standing up for oneself. She has taught the standard format style of physical self-defense and noticed where it lacks. She is also an avid mixed martial artist, so she thoroughly understands the techniques she teaches. She has experience helping participants come out of their shell and confidently use their voice and physical power. Melanie is trained in trauma informed response, as well as domestic violence and rape crisis counseling, and has volunteered as a victim advocate.

At Empowered Self-defense we teach that you are stronger than you realize. We teach you how to tap into that power and use it to keep yourself safe. We never victim blame. We understand that you are not responsible for preventing crime (other than not committing crime). Melanie believes in intersectional feminism and truly loves to empower others.