Melissa is a Licensed Associate Counselor in the state of New Jersey, with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Montclair State University. Melissa provides a supportive and collaborative therapeutic space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered in their growth. Melissa draws from evidence-based approaches, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and person-centered therapy, to help clients build emotional regulation skills, strengthen resilience, and move toward meaningful change aligned with their values and strengths.

 

 

Before becoming a counselor, Melissa worked in education supporting students with a wide range of disabilities, where she developed a strong foundation in understanding diverse learning needs, fostering individualized support, and promoting each student’s strengths and potential within the classroom environment.

 

At the heart of Melissa’s clinical work is a deep respect for each person’s capacity for resilience, growth, and meaningful change. She strives to meet clients where they are by fostering a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental therapeutic space grounded in empathy, authenticity, and collaboration. Melissa places strong value on understanding each client’s lived experience and works to build a genuine connection that honors their individuality and strengths. She recognizes that the therapeutic process can take time and effort, and she approaches this journey with patience and gratitude.