Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 32 ratings

Melissa Cimino

13 years of experience

Authentic
Empowering
Warm
Virtual
Next available on

About me

I believe that meaningful healing begins in a space where you feel truly seen, heard, and accepted without judgment. My goal is to create a supportive and authentic environment where you can explore your inner world with openness and safety. I strive to meet each person with genuine empathy and respect, recognizing that each individual’s journey is unique. Together, we work at your pace to understand your experiences, build insight, and move toward lasting growth and healing. I practice from a trauma-informed and culturally responsive perspective, honoring the diverse backgrounds and life experiences that shape who we are. I believe therapy works best when it’s a collaborative partnership; one that empowers you to develop self-awareness, strengthen emotional resilience, and create meaningful change in your life. My therapeutic foundation is rooted in person-centered therapy, which emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authenticity in the therapeutic relationship. At the same time, I integrate evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Family Systems Therapy, and Mindfulness. This integrative approach allows me to adapt our work together to best fit your individual needs, values, and goals.

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

In our first sessions, we’ll take time to build trust and understanding while exploring what brings you to therapy and identifying goals that feel authentic and achievable for you. My approach is collaborative and strengths-based. I believe in each person’s inherent capacity for growth and transformation. My role is to walk alongside you on this journey, offering support, insight, and tools to help you move toward healing, clarity, and fulfillment.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

I am committed to practicing in a trauma-informed and culturally responsive way, honoring each client’s unique background and lived experience. I approach therapy as a collaborative partnership that empowers individuals to build insight, strengthen resilience, and move toward meaningful growth. Rooted in compassion and respect, my goal is to support healing of both mind and body, helping clients reconnect with their strengths and sense of self.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

I have experience supporting individuals navigating a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, identity exploration, relationship concerns, and major life transitions. I am also deeply interested in the connection between the mind and body, and I often help clients learn strategies to manage stress, build self-compassion, and reconnect with their inner sense of balance. I’m passionate about supporting individuals through a variety of life experiences, such as grief, transitions, and challenges related to anxiety or depression.

Specialties

Top specialties

Other specialties

ADHDDepressionSelf Esteem

I identify as

Serves ages

My treatment methods

Person-centered (Rogerian)

My work is grounded in the core principles of person-centered therapy of empathy, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard. I believe that when clients feel truly seen and accepted, meaningful growth naturally follows. This philosophy guides every aspect of my work and serves as the foundation for integrating evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and Family Systems Therapy. Each of these approaches complements person-centered values by supporting self-awareness, emotional regulation, and personal empowerment. Together, they create a collaborative, flexible, and deeply human process that honors each client’s unique path toward healing and change.

Location

Virtual
Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 32 ratings

1 rating with written reviews

August 13, 2025

Melissa is an exceptionally supportive therapist, with particular skills in validation, active listening and offers an overall warmth and authenticity to her practice. She worked with me through harmful thought patterns and ensures that we find a solution together. Aside from this striking balance of warmth and professionalism, she's innately a kind human being. I will miss her very much as I move out of state.

Verified client, age 25-34

Review shared after session 40 with Melissa