I'm Melissa Mauser, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience supporting children, families, college students, and adults. I am physically located in Kentucky and practice primarily in Maryland, Kentucky, and Indiana. I view mental health as a direction we are all continually moving toward, not an accomplishment to be checked off. I take a holistic approach, integrating strategies to support your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. When I am not working, I enjoy being outside—hiking, running, practicing yoga, playing with my dogs, spending time with my family, or simply enjoying a good cup of coffee.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
During our initial 50–55 minute session, I will have already reviewed your intake paperwork. We will focus on your story: what is bringing you to therapy, why now, your goals, and what you liked or disliked about previous experiences. We will also cover logistics, including confidentiality, session frequency, scheduling, how to reach me, and answer your questions.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
I offer an inclusive, non-judgmental space for you to focus on yourself, understanding that mental health symptoms are often a valid response to situational stressors or life experiences. I frequently integrate concepts from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, and down-to-earth humor to help clients feel better at the end of the session than they did at the start.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I am passionate about working with vulnerable adults, including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, the elderly, and those experiencing systemic oppression or financial insecurity. I specialize in treating anxiety disorders, grief, and trauma-related responses, and I work best with individuals willing to be curious and open-minded about their inner experiences and potential steps forward.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
Acceptance and commitment therapy is the modality that feels the most natural to me as a person. We'll use evidence-based strategies to help you relate differently to worries, anxiety, and fear, in order to reduce your suffering and live a more values-based, fulfilling life.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Learning how to experience, tolerate, and express our emotions helps reduce conflict internally and externally. We'll investigate your emotions in a safe, mindful, and embodied way.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindfulness is not about "turning off" or "clearing" your mind; it's about paying attention, with curiousity and non-judment, to your present moment experiences. This can create a greater sense of clarity, peace, and contentment. We'll explore many strategies to help you feel more present and centered in your life.