Melissa Ripani
My name is Melissa and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide individual, family, couples and group therapy. I help my clients find constructive ways of addressing anxiety, depression, loss, family and relationship issues. By doing so I've learned many lessons along the way... one of these lessons is that we all seek compassion and understanding; a basic need in order to move forward under almost any circumstance. Some of my specialties include: Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Anger Management. Some of the issues I address in therapy include: Child or Adolescent Issues, Chronic Illness, Coping Skill, Divorce/Separation, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence, Drug Abuse, Eating Disorders, Family Conflict, Parenting, Peer Relationships, Self Esteem, Self-Harming, Sexual Abuse, Substance Abuse, and much more. I have worked in a variety of therapeutic settings, some of which include outpatient, residential, and group homes. I am committed to my clients and bringing families together to resolve conflicts that may have been preventing them from moving forward.
The one thing I have learned after being in this field for some time is that not only are my patients learning something new- I am as well!
First session
I like my first session to be aimed at getting to know one another. I am interested in learning more about the client(s) and what has ultimately led us in the same room together. I also encourage clients to ask questions about my education and knowledge in the field, and discuss what treatments I ultilize that may assist them through their journey.
Strengths
The one thing I have learned after being in this field for some time is that not only are my patients learning something new- I am as well! Everyone is so different and there is definitely not a 'one size fits all' when it comes to therapy. That is what I find so rewarding (and challenging!)- every patient is a blank slate, and we will work together to find a treatment that works best for them.
Ideal clients
I work well with clients that are open to understanding more about themselves and open to trying various techniques until one if found that fits. I am also open to hearing what is working and what is not working- understanding everyone has different preferences and needs.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of talk psychotherapy. Many times, individuals fall into thought patterns/beliefs that are not always accurate or productive in their everyday lives. I work with clients to identify these thought patterns and devise a plan with the client on how to shift their way of thinking.
Couples Counseling
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist that has undergone a great deal of training with not only individual work, but also an emphasis on couples and families. I work with couples and families to identify the patterns that they have found themselves in that are no longer beneficial. Once the patterns are identified, we focus on ways in which these patterns can be altered for a more beneficial relationship for all involved.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a great way to focus on emotions that can sometimes feel overwhelming and uncontrollable. I work with patients to assist them in finding alternative ways to cope.
Family Therapy
Family Therapy is a modality in which I am licensed in. Family work is very beneficial for everyone. Instead of focusing on one independent party in the relationship (ie. Individual work)- therapy is focused on individuals in the family and how they interact with one another. When conducting a family session, I often encourage as many individuals in the family unit to participate.
Location
Virtual sessions