Hi, I'm Melissa! My journey working in the field metal health began in 2009. With a commitment to social justice and holistic well-being, I became I have been licensed as a clinical social worker since 2017. I received my Masters and Bachelors in Social Work from Sacramento State University. I have spent time working in various community settings, schools, homes, and non-profit organizations. As a therapist, I have become seasoned in facilitating groups, supervision for associates, couples counseling, and individual counseling. I utilize various treatment approaches based on the unique needs of the individuals I am privileged to work with. With attunement, compassion, and a sense of humor, I strive to support clients in exploring the various parts of self for discovering their innate resilience and empowerment to navigate the complexities of life.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
My goal for our first session is to develop a safe therapeutic space for us to get to know one another, explore the challenges you are facing and what support you need. We will work together to develop goals based on what you need for promoting positive change and leading a meaningful life.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I have been described as a, "Fierce Love Warrior". I lead with compassion, empathy, nurturance, and authenticity. In both my professional and personal experiences, I have acquired skills for being uniquely attuned with my clients allowing them to feel seen, heard, and understood. I am playful and think that play and humor is an important aspect for healing. I am passionate, enthusiastic, and deeply committed to the individuals I am privileged to serve.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
As a therapist, I have experience working with a variety of populations of diverse social, cultural, and economic backgrounds. I have specialized training and confidence in working in areas of trauma, relational challenges, women issues, and disordered eating. I find joy in working with young women and individuals seeking self exploration for improving self-esteem, self-confidence, and developing a better relationship with self.
About Melissa E. Harter
Melissa E. Harter offers therapy covered by CalViva Health (Medi-Cal), Central California Alliance for Health (Medi-Cal), Community Health Plan of Imperial Valley (Medi-Cal), Gold Coast Health Plan (Medi-Cal), Health Net (Medi-Cal), Kern Family Health Care - Medi-Cal, L.A. Care Health Plan (Medi-Cal), Orange County Mental Health Plan (Medi-Cal), Partnership HealthPlan of California (Medi-Cal) and San Francisco Health Plan (Medi-Cal) in California.
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Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
As a mental health therapist, I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approaches to help individuals navigate life's challenges with greater resilience and clarity. Through ACT, I guide clients in cultivating mindfulness, embracing their emotions with compassion, and aligning their actions with deeply-held values. This approach empowers clients to break free from unhelpful patterns, enhance psychological flexibility, and foster a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
Attachment-based
As a mental health therapist, I bring a unique blend of attachment-based using warm, holistic, and spiritually attuned approaches. I believe in creating a nurturing and empathetic space where clients can explore their emotional connections and relational patterns deeply. Drawing from attachment theory, I help individuals understand how early experiences shape current relationships and self-perception. Infused with a soulful vibe, my practice emphasizes holistic healing, mindfulness, and the importance of authentic self-expression. Together, we embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth, fostering deeper connections and emotional well-being.
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
As a mental health therapist, I see each individual as a complex system of inner parts, each with its own wisdom and role. In our sessions together, I guide clients through a journey of self-discovery and healing, helping them explore and understand these internal parts with curiosity and compassion. By fostering a safe and non-judgmental space, we unravel the layers of past experiences and beliefs that shape current challenges. Through IFS, clients learn to cultivate harmony among their internal parts, fostering self-compassion, resilience, and a deeper connection with their authentic selves. Together, we embark on a profound exploration that empowers clients to transform their inner landscape and live more fulfilling lives.
Feminist
As a mental health therapist, I integrate feminist principles into my practice, advocating for the empowerment and liberation of individuals within a supportive and inclusive environment. Drawing from feminist theories, I collaborate with clients to explore the intersectionality of their identities and experiences, recognizing the impact of social, cultural, and systemic factors on their well-being. Through compassionate dialogue and a commitment to social justice, I strive to create a space where clients can voice their truths, challenge societal norms, and reclaim their agency. Together, we work towards healing and personal growth, fostering resilience and authenticity in navigating life's challenges. My approach emphasizes collaboration, empowerment, and honoring the diverse experiences and strengths that each client brings.