I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) that provides virtual therapy over telehealth. I earned my Masters Degree in 2017 from UNC Charlotte and have been a therapist for 7 years now. My specialities are working with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and adhd. I also work with clients struggling with relationships, school/career stress, insomnia, attachment issues and more. I also work with populations such as LGBTQ, single parents, and minorities.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
Our first session will be an evaluation. This is where we discuss your history (relationships, mental/physical health, etc.) as well as current stressors and symptoms. This information will help us to create your treatment plan using person centered goals.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
One of the main things my clients have told me that they like about working with me is that I provide a relaxed, safe environment that allows them to open up without ever feeling judged. I always give clients the opportunity to express their needs and let me know what they are or aren't comfortable with. I give clients the space and time they need to talk about things, while also providing practical tools to help them achieve their goals.
About Melissa Stokes
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I utilize CBT for individuals struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other related disorders. This involves identifying negative cognitions, core beliefs, and maladaptive thought patterns and ways of coping. We explore the root of these symptoms and how this contributes to the cycle of thoughts influencing our emotions, which influence our behaviors, which circles back around to influencing our thoughts. Clients will learn how to stop these patterns that have a negative impact on their lives and how to create new, healthy patterns in their lives.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindfulness is used for clients with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and trauma. Mindfulness helps us to feel more connected to our emotions, our physical bodies, and the world around us. I teach clients various techniques for practicing mindfulness in their daily lives.
EMDR
EMDR is traditionally used for individuals that have experienced trauma, however it is also beneficial for those who need to re-process negative core beliefs due to depression, grief, and other painful experiences. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (tapping is typically used for virtual therapy, however eye movement and audio techniques can also be used) to re-process painful/traumatic memories and core beliefs.