Barbara Bardach is the mother of Melinda Bardach, the patient in Safe. She is married to Lewis Bardach. She was portrayed by actress Mel Harris. Barbara is first seen when she makes Melinda's boyfriend Dan wash his hands and arms thoroughly before visiting Melinda. However, after Dan visits Melinda and she suffers anaphylactic shock, Barbara blames Dan for bringing something in. However, after Melinda recovers, Barbara agrees to let her go back to school.