Hey there! I'm Melinda, and I haven't met you yet, but I know one thing is true: - Whatever your reason for seeking therapy...your reason is valid. I have been in the field of mental health for more than 10 years. In addition to being a therapist, I have served as a mental health educator, military research specialist, and company consultant. Like you, there is no way my whole personality can fit in this space, but it can be summed up with this statement...I love people. I love learning about people. I love that people trust me enough to be a part of their stories. I cannot wait to meet you!
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
If you are looking for a nonjudgemental space to process your life experiences, thoughts, feelings, and emotions, I am your therapist! My role is to walk with you as you make sense of your world in a way that brings peace to your life. We won't spend our session time trying to fix or change other people. But instead, we will focus on using your focus, energy, and insight to create more of what you need. Because if you're going to be the one paying for sessions, you should also be the one benefiting.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I am not a "one size fits all therapist." I believe in being an informed therapist, but not a rigid one. I use Person Centered Therapy, Systems Therapy, CBT, ACT, Solution Focused Therapy, and other modalities as they fit the person. Regarding tools, I use psychoeducation, journaling, worksheets, experiential activities, and any tools we create together as a client/therapist team.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My greatest strengths as a therapist are: 1. Connection 2. Flexibility 3. Safety My strengths in connection allow me to stay curious about you and every client. I do not know you better than you know you, and I appreciate the chance to get to know your story. With flexibility, I consistently check in with clients to ensure we are on a plan that works for you, not just me. Lastly, safety. I believe the safety of expressing yourself in this space is a game-changer. You may not feel like you have a voice in every space, but you do in this space.