Maressa Derry is an experienced Drama Therapist, Counsellor, Clinical Supervisor, and Creative Trainer with nearly two decades of professional practice in mental health, wellbeing, and professional development since 2005. Her work spans therapeutic, educational, organisational, and corporate contexts, supported by extensive international experience and a strong foundation in creative and trauma-informed practice.

Trained in the Netherlands, Maressa conducted university research into drama therapy techniques and its application within organisational and corporate training. This research continues to inform her approach to experiential learning, group facilitation, and training design. Early in her career, she worked with people from refugee backgrounds, developing strong skills in culturally responsive practice and complex trauma work. She later spent several years in the United Kingdom, broadening her expertise across therapeutic, educational, and community settings.

Since 2010, Maressa has established a successful private practice in Adelaide, working with clients across the lifespan. She has extensive experience supporting neurodivergent individuals, people with trauma, disabilities, and those seeking reflection, growth, or change.

Alongside her clinical work, Maressa is a qualified supervisor for counsellors and creative Arts Therapists and regularly supports practitioners in reflective practice and professional development. She has designed and delivered training for the education department, facilitated programs for groups of parents and clients, and co-created innovative, creative training experiences with other professionals and for companies.

Maressa is a confident and engaging presenter, known for creating safe, dynamic learning environments that foster insight, collaboration, and lasting change.

Maressa holds professional memberships with ANZACATA, ACA, and PACFA.