New to Grow
Hello, I am Melissa. A dedicated and motivated therapist, who can recognize the positives though challenges and adversities with a willingness to devote the time necessary to help others. I am people-oriented, responsible individual who is committed to helping others to reach their goals. I have a diverse background with over 15 years working in the counseling profession, and six years experience as a content supervisor at APA has provided me with extensive knowledge of psychological research as it relates to the counseling field. I specialize in trauma as a certified clinical trauma professional (CCTP), EMDR trained, and certified integrative relationship therapist (C-IRT).
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
The thought of meeting someone new can cause anyone to feel nervous, so it is my intentions to identify how I can best support you. During our initial session we will build rapport by sharing what you feel it is important for me to know about you, identify presenting problems/concerns, and discussed any supports you have in place. I will share my role as your therapist, expectations from therapy treatment, and how we can maintain a trusted therapeutic alliance. With this information, we can develop a treatment plan to help meet your goals.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
As a person who has gone through my own life challenges, navigating through life thinking I had to do so without help, yet finding myself on the receiving end of therapy during life transitions, I can say, the experience has been life-changing. Therapy has helped me to become a person I'm very proud of. Being an empath, and someone who people seem to naturally gravitate, and learning from other's experiences has helped them to feel seen and heard. My integrative approach has helped others to experience empowerment, resiliency, and strength in what may have once seen as pain, sadness, and loss at some point in their lives.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I enjoy helping individuals, couples, and families meet their goals and increase confidence in knowing they can do so independently and with support as needed. I am interested in providing therapy to clients where challenges can be presented, and a want to share, learn, and implement the skills and strategies needed to feel better about themselves and relationships. My humbleness will be an asset to those who are looking for a safe space to move forward in their healing journey. It is a privilege to work with individuals from all walks of life, and think the most beautiful thing in the work is watching the light come on in someone's eyes after they've been lost in the dark for so long.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Using cognitive behavioral therapy has a positive impact on clients' ability to change negative thinking and behavioral patterns to more favorable one's, as well as develop healthy coping skills and strategies to help meet their daily and long term goals.
Couples Counseling
In couples counseling, I use integrative relationship therapy to help you and your partner to share concerns, learn more about one another, and develop communication, connection, and exploration of how you can redefine your relationship to meet each individual and couple's needs.
Trauma Informed Care
The difficulties that come with trauma doesn't have to be a staple in your life, especially when there is so much life to be lived. As a certified clinical trauma professional implementing trauma informed care, you will have a safe space where your voice is heard, trust is built, and choices and decisions are made to identify the next steps in your journey.