Melissa is passionate about meeting each individual where they are and empowering clients to achieve their goals. She fiercely believes that when people have access to what they need and the proper support system, they can and will thrive.

Melissa has a Bachelor’s degree from Mary Washington University and a Master’s in Social Work from Howard University. She has experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults with diverse backgrounds in residential, school, and community settings. She is well versed in behavior modification, crisis intervention, community supports, and school based programs. Melissa has over a decade of experience working with the LGBTQ community, individuals with disabilities, substance use issues, housing insecurity, criminal backgrounds, and other mental health concerns.

Her therapeutic approach focuses on the principles of affirmation, strength, diversity, and vivification. The basics of her approaches are rooted in cultural competence, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Informed Care. She approaches therapy from a client centered and strength based perspective to assist with developing, adapting, and implementing solutions based on a person’s needs and desires to create meaningful change. Melissa is adept at lending a compassionate and listening ear in a judgement free safe space and sees therapy as a collaborative effort.

When she is not spending time with her spouse and their cats, she is running, gardening, painting, or putting together LEGO sets. She loves any opportunity to be near the ocean, on the mountains, or exploring wildlife in those spaces.