(she/her)
I bring a wealth of experience to my practice, having worked in a variety of clinical settings. My career includes significant time spent in residential programs for at-risk youths, where I developed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by this group. Additionally, I have experience in the K-12 educational setting, providing crisis support and guidance to students in need. In my career, I have taught numerous parenting courses across several schools, sharing valuable insights and strategies with parents to help them support their children's development effectively. My approach to therapy is rooted in individualized care. I believe that each client is unique, and I tailor my therapeutic methods to fit their specific needs. As a bilingual therapist, I have the distinct capability of conducting therapeutic sessions in both English and Spanish, broadening the scope of clients I can support effectively. I completed my master’s degree in Counselor Education at San Jose State University, which provided me with a strong foundation in counseling principles and techniques. I take great joy in working with children of all ages and backgrounds, as well as with adults. In sessions with younger clients, I often incorporate play therapy to encourage openness and engagement. This approach allows children to express themselves in a comfortable and natural way. For adult clients, I utilize talk therapy interventions, focusing on creating a safe space for dialogue and healing.
For first session feel free to ask any questions you might have about the therapy process. Some common questions include: How will progress be measured? What happens if I feel therapy isn’t working? How can I prepare for future sessions? This initial session is a collaborative effort aimed at building a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. Remember, the therapist is there to support you, and open communication is key to a successful therapeutic journey.
No matter how many years of experience one accumulates, the journey of learning never truly ends. Each new client presents a unique opportunity to grow and refine one’s skills. Thus, cultivating adaptability is essential in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of client needs and expectations.
When envisioning an ideal client, it’s crucial to consider their openness to both support and change. This mindset not only facilitates a productive therapeutic relationship but also fosters growth and change.
Other specialties
I identify as
Cash - $120 per session
Aetna
Aetna - Allied Benefits
Aetna - ASR Health Benefits
Aetna - Luminare
Aetna - Moda
Aetna - WebTPA
Aetna – HealthEZ
All Savers
Amerihealth Administrators
Anthem
Arlo
AvMed
Blue Cross
Blue Shield
CalViva Health (Medi-Cal)
Carelon Behavioral Health (Commercial)
Centivo
Central California Alliance for Health (Medi-Cal)
Cigna
Cigna - HealthEZ
Community Health Plan of Imperial Valley (Medi-Cal)
EAP:Cigna
EAP:Evernorth
EAP:UnitedHealthcare/Optum
Evernorth
Gold Coast Health Plan (Medi-Cal)
Golden Rule
GTEB
Harvard Pilgrim/UnitedHealthcare
Health Net (Commercial)
Health Net (Medi-Cal)
Health Plan of San Joaquin/Mountain Valley Health Plan – Medi-Cal
IHSS Healthy Workers
Independence Administrators
Independence Blue Cross
L.A. Care Covered
L.A. Care Covered Direct
L.A. Care Health Plan (Medi-Cal)
L.A. Care PASC-SEIU
Optum
OptumHealth Complex Medical Conditions
Oscar
Oxford
Partnership HealthPlan of California (Medi-Cal)
San Francisco Health Plan (Medi-Cal)
Santa Clara Family Health Plan - Medi-Cal
Scripps Health Plan
Sharp Health Plan
Surest (formerly Bind)
Sutter Health Plan
Tufts Health/Cigna
United Medical Resources
UnitedHealthcare Life Insurance
UnitedHealthcare Shared Services
UnitedHealthcare StudentResources
UnitedHealthcare/Optum
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely-used, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviors. It is grounded in the concept that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, and that changing negative thoughts can lead to changes in feelings and behaviors.
1 rating with written reviews
August 15, 2025
This was my first appointment with Cindy Melendez, so far my experience was good and I think she’s the therapist I’ve been looking for . She’s seems helpful and focused on helping me .