Melena Slaven
Hi! I am licensed mental health counselor/licensed professional clinical counselor with a Master of Arts in Counseling and 20 years of experience. My approach is compassionate, nonjudgmental, and client-centered, grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused techniques, and interpersonal therapy. I believe in building a strong therapeutic relationship, meeting clients where they are, and tailoring each session to their pace and needs. I incorporate humor into my work, helping clients navigate challenges one step at a time. You will feel at ease in your first session. I recognize the challenges of deciding to get therapy and will help you stay motivated to continue. I lived overseas for 18 years, so I believe that I bring an open-minded perspective and a deep appreciation for diverse experiences. I have had the privilege of helping individuals from various backgrounds find clarity, resilience, and hope.
I lived overseas for 18 years, so I believe that I bring an open-minded perspective and a deep appreciation for diverse experiences.
I became a therapist to guide others through life’s difficult moments in a safe, supportive way. Together, we'll set achievable goals, work toward meaningful change, and leave feeling empowered and more at peace.
First session
In our first session, clients can expect a warm, supportive, and judgment-free space where they can share their story at their own pace. We’ll discuss what brings them to therapy, their goals, and any concerns they have about the process. I’ll ask questions to better understand their experiences, strengths, and challenges while also explaining how I work and what therapy might look like moving forward. Most importantly, this session is about building trust and ensuring they feel heard, comfortable, and empowered to take the next steps.
Strengths
My greatest strengths are my warmth, openness, and ability to create a safe, accepting space for clients to be themselves. I approach each person with genuine curiosity and without judgment, meeting them where they are in their journey. My open-mindedness allows me to connect with people from all walks of life, helping them feel understood, valued, and supported as they work toward meaningful change.
Ideal clients
My dream client is someone who is open to self-exploration and willing to engage in the therapeutic process with curiosity and honesty. They don’t need to have all the answers, but they are ready to challenge old patterns, try new perspectives, and take steps—big or small—toward meaningful change. I love working with clients who are willing to be vulnerable, trust the process, and embrace growth, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress. By working together to reframe negative thinking and develop healthier coping strategies, clients can build resilience and gain a greater sense of control over their emotions and behaviors. I tailor CBT techniques to each individual, incorporating practical exercises and real-life applications to ensure meaningful progress.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
Person-centered therapy to creates a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, valued, and accepted. I believe that each person has the capacity for growth and self-healing, so I take a supportive role, guiding clients toward their own insights and solutions. By offering empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuine understanding, I help clients build self-awareness, confidence, and a stronger sense of self.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
Solution-focused therapy helps clients identify their strengths and build practical strategies for achieving their goals. Rather than focusing on problems, we concentrate on solutions, exploring what’s already working and how to create more of it. Through collaborative conversations, I guide clients toward small, meaningful changes that lead to lasting progress. This approach empowers clients to see possibilities, gain confidence, and take actionable steps toward a more fulfilling life.
Grief Therapy
I support clients through grief by providing a compassionate, safe space to process their loss at their own pace. I help clients navigate the complex emotions of grief, normalize their experiences, and find ways to honor their loved ones while continuing to move forward. Using a blend of therapeutic approaches, I guide clients in developing coping strategies, building resilience, and rediscovering meaning in their lives after loss.
Location
Virtual sessions