Melissa has been a dedicated mental health professional since the early 2000s. Over the years, she has learned that creating a space where people feel safe, heard, and understood is the foundation of true healing. With her approachable, down-to-earth demeanor, Melissa helps clients feel at ease, knowing they are in a judgment-free zone from the moment they walk through her door.
Having a deep understanding of life’s challenges, including emotional and chronic pain, she recognizes how overwhelming it can be to simply function at times. While Melissa is compassionate and supportive, she is also honest and direct, providing authentic feedback to help clients uncover their personal truths. Her goal is to help you become the truest version of yourself, free from self-imposed limitations, and equipped with the skills to navigate life’s stressors with greater ease.
Melissa specializes in working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, and the lasting impact of childhood trauma. She believes that the way we think and cope is often shaped by our past experiences, and she is dedicated to helping clients break free from patterns that no longer serve them. Expect to explore new perspectives, tools, and coping strategies to build resilience and improve daily functioning.
And don’t be surprised if she cracks a joke or two—therapy can be heavy, but Melissa believes humor can be a powerful tool in making the process more comfortable and approachable.
Melissa says, “There is nothing more beautiful or empowering than watching someone fully embrace themselves—strengths, weaknesses, and all—with compassion and clarity.”
She looks forward to walking alongside you on your journey, offering unwavering support and encouragement. Reach out today to schedule a session—she’s ready to be your biggest cheerleader.
Education/Credentials:
Florida International University, Master of Science, Psychology
Florida Institute of Technology, Applied Behavior Analysis Certification
Florida Licensed Mental Health Counselor, #MH13464
Qualified Supervisor for Registered Interns
Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst, #0-21-12444
Experienced in:
Abuse, Anxiety, Autism, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Coaching, Co-Dependency, Coping Skills, Coping with Life Changes, Couples (in person or virtually), Couples with Intimacy Issues, Depression, Divorce, Domestic Violence, Family problems, Families with adults only (in person or virtual), Fertility Issues, Grief and Loss, Infidelity, LGBTQ, Marital Issues, Mindfulness, Parenting issues, Parents who are aging, Perinatal Mental Health, PTSD, Self-Esteem, Self-Harm, Self-Love, Spanish Speaking, Stress, Substance abuse, Suicidal Ideation, Teenagers (in person or virtual), Trauma, Trauma Processing, Women’s issues, Young Adult Issues
Clinical approaches:
Applied Behavior Analysis, Client-Centered Therapy, Coaching, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical-Behavior Therapy (DBT), Gottman Techniques, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Clinical Supervision for Licensees
Style:
Authentic, Direct, Educational, Empowering, Fun, Funny, Good with tough conversations and feedback, Give homework, Honest, Insight-Oriented, Nonjudgmental, Open, Relaxed, Warm
Years of Experience: Since 2005