Melissa MacGown
Melissa MacGown
(she/her)
Hello! I'm Melissa. I love what I do! Counseling people is my life's work. Been doing it 20 years. Whatever you are going through, I can assure you, I've worked with someone who's dealt with something similar. I specialize in treating addiction, worked in 5 in-patient drug & alcohol treatment centers/rehabs in my career (mostly w/men). I have years of professional experience working with an array of issues and populations. I enjoy working with individuals and families. I have several years experience working w/teens, including those who grew up in the system, been abused, at high-risk, or with behavioral or learning problems. Clients feedback is reported as: I'm "easy to talk to," "friendly," "down to earth." I've been told I'm helpful & a "good listener;" that's important to me. I'm mostly solution-focused, meaning...I want to understand the problem, but get into the tough work of finding solutions as soon as possible. As a therapist, I have empathy, am caring, and invested in improving your life circumstances. I'm non-judgmental. I believe no matter how similar or different we may be, we can work together and develop rapport. We can start right away, opening lines of communication so I can understand where you're coming from and help anyway I can. My hope is to develop a warm, trusting relationship in which you feel comfortable, and heard. One of my favorite things to hear as a therapist from a client is, "exactly," because I know we're on the same page, and smile when a client says after session, " I feel much better." That's my aspiration, to help, get to know you. Please understand this is not just a job for me. I'm genuinely here for you! Thanks for taking the time to read this & learn more about me as a professional.
Get to know me
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
The first session is usually going over intake information. It can be more clinical than feeling based but that is only the first session. Kind of how it just goes...with any therapist chosen. It is part of the therapy process. In addition, it may be important to know that I do also go over a couple important pieces of info. This includes what is called 'informed consent.' So you know what you signed up for, what to expect, what limitations to your confidentiality include. As well as what therapists in CA are mandated (by law) to report. Do not let this scare you, as it is the same for all providers. But once that is out of the way (and only takes 2 minutes to explain) you will be given the opportunity to ask any questions you have or express any concerns. The first appointment is also a chance to get to know your provider to determine a "good fit."
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
What makes me unique? Stand apart? Well I consider myself well-spoken, intelligent, mature, take my job and work seriously, am genuinely caring. I am also sensitive, empathetic, and somewhat of a cheerleader- in that I want your success! Your progress and success is also mine, after all. Further, I have been through much in life. Dysfunction, trauma, many life experiences and have 20 years experience in the field as well. Lastly, that I also do my own therapy and have for years. I have sat on both sides of the 'table.' I also deal with my own issues, so I think I am relatable. I mean, everyone is going through something. I do not act perfect because no one is. Nor do I like the word "crazy." It takes bravery and strength to start this process!
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
It feels like I covered much in describing myself already. But an 'ideal' client is one that is open, willing, has some level of motivation, curiosity, and cooperation in terms of putting in the work. Someone that is going to be thoughtful, not terribly super guarded, and has a decent skillset in communication. I also think it is important to include that I do occasionally self-disclose if a client is open to that. Just as a way to relate, to connect and align. But if someone does not want that, I hope they feel comfortable enough to share. Because I am down to earth, as therapists really are human too!
About Melissa MacGown
I identify as
Specialties
Serves ages
Licensed in
Accepts
Appointments
VirtualMy treatment methods
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
I have been using this treatment method for years. Mostly because insurance companies wanted progress made in a limited number of sessions. So this is about getting right to the issue(s) at hand, getting a treatment plan in place, providing suggestions, feedback, collaborating on a plan to help.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
This is a staple in therapy/counseling. All about learning the connection between how thoughts impact mood and behavior. Figuring out how to change thought patterns, core beliefs, speak kinder to yourself too! You 'inner voice' that is!
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
Love DBT...mostly because it covers mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness with others, learning emotion regulation, and how to tolerate distress. I have lots of materials and resources to use for DBT.
Family Therapy
I have worked with many families, couples, adolescents, and do a lot of relational therapies. Assisting others to work through the family system, build on relationships, improve communication, intimacy, or general functionality.
Christian Counseling
I have been Christian for 36 years. I can incorporate faith into the sessions as needed or desired. This includes discussions about how this can serve as a strength based coping resource. Involving participation in church, having a church community, and use of scripture, devotionals, prayer, to assist in working through struggles. Utilizing the above mentioned as part of becoming less isolated, feeling more supported, and part of the healing process to overcome mental health or other problems/issues.