Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate
Despite growing up in a rural and religious area, I had a unique experience of growing up with an exposure to cultural and sexual diversity through my relationships with family and friends. This exposure created an openness, which translates to how I practice therapy. I value different perspectives, and I would love to come alongside you and empower you.
Having obtained training in Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and sexual wellness, I value continuous education to meet the individual needs of my clients and our community. A background in business and leadership gives me a unique approach to empower business leaders to focus on personal growth and development, help them to identify how they can develop sustainability in their careers, and also achieve the quality of life they want to incorporate both in and outside of work.
Through working in community mental health, with a focus in trauma, substance use, and chronic illness, I was able to recognize the importance of healthy sex and relationship education. Intimacy and relationships are essential in the healing and recovery process. Unfortunately, so many of my clients report a lack of education in these things, and report negative experiences related to sex and relationships. I hope to provide a different perspective to assist clients in having healthy relationships and overall wellness.
My passion is to create an environment where individuals and couples can feel heard and understood, in order to share their vulnerabilities. Connection with others is essential in the healing process, and I believe that starts in the therapy room. My goal is to provide an environment that encourages wellness, healing, and growth in a way that is individualized and personalized to you.
I enjoy working with diverse individuals and relationships, where together, we strive to find strength and empowerment to achieve enjoyment and pleasure from life.This includes individuals, relationships, business owners, professionals, military/veterans, and first responders.
Education:
Marian University: Master of Science Mental Health Counseling
Purdue University: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Minor: Communication
Modern Sex Therapy Institutes- Sex Therapy, current
Areas of Focus:
General Therapy
Individual Therapy
Brainspotting
Substance Use
Addiction
Stress Management
Gender and Sexual Identity
Population:
Adults over the age of 18
Military and First Responders
Training:
Substance Abuse
Cognitive Behavioral Training
Brainspotting
Session Fee: $140.00
Melissa is under the supervision of Vikki Smyth, Licensed Mental Health Clinical Counselor