With over 20 years of experience in the field of social work, I have honed my skills in outpatient strength-based, person-centered therapy. I provide a safe place for positive change to improve each individual's quality of life, based on their individual needs and goals. My approach to counseling is rooted in empathy, genuineness, unconditional positive regard, active listening, non-judgment, and a genuine desire to empower individuals to overcome their challenges. In this work, I draw from multiple evidence-based practices including Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Solution Focused Therapy, and Self-Care. "By taking the time to nourish our minds, bodies, and souls, we can cultivate resilience, improve our overall well-being and enhance our quality of life." -Wiz Olgy

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In our first session my main goal is always to help make the individual feel welcomed, comfortable, safe, heard and validated. In our first session I will complete a psychosocial assessment which will provide a holistic understanding of the individual along with presenting issues. The psychosocial assessment is an essential tool used to gather information, understand individual needs, and develop a treatment plan that is effective and personalized. We will also discuss consent to treatment along with expectations and roles.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

My biggest strength, I believe, is my genuine care and concern for others. I became a social worker many years ago with the same passion I have today which is to help others; to listen to them, provide support, to teach them the skills they need to achieve their goals so they can have the quality of life they deserve.

About Melissa Testa