About Melissa

This is the part where I talk to you about my credentials and experience. What you really want to know is- will we connect?  The relationship between client and therapist is the most important part of the healing, growing process.  Therapy often becomes a safe space for clients.  It's important to know that I believe that you, as an individual or couple, have done exactly what you needed to do to get through the stressors that may have brought you to my door.  Part of our work together will involve learning different ways of seeing  yourself,  your  partner,  and  the  world.  Most importantly, it will involve new ways of Doing and Being. 

I graduated from The State University of NY College at Buffalo with a Bachelors in Social Work, BSW.  I went on to complete my Masters in Social Work, MSW at The University of South Carolina. I became licensed as a therapist in 2004 and have helped countless individuals and couples heal and grow ever since.  I've currently been devoted solely to my private practice (treating couples and trauma) but in the past, I've treated teens and adults in an outpatient partial hospitalization program facilitating individual, group and family therapy based on a DBT model of treatment.  I have also worked with children and families in an outpatient clinic setting.  I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work Supervisor and I provide supervision for those pursuing licensure in SC.  

I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and EMDRIA-Approved Consultant.  I have advanced training in Attachment Focused EMDR and have combined the following modalities into my EMDR practice:  Interpersonal Neurobiology, Internal Family Systems, and Polyvagal Theory.  I am currently in my 3 year program to become a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, as well.  

I am  Certified  in  Emotionally  Focused  Therapy (EFT) and  consider  myself  an  EFT  purest  when  it  comes  to  treating  couples,  as  I  find  this  modality  most  efficient  in  assisting  couples  in  their  quest  for  stable,  satisfying  relationships.    I  have  additional  couples  therapy  training  in  the  Gottman Method, and Prepare-Enrich.  

I am an affirmative provider to LGBTQI+ persons and I work with clients from diverse racial, ethnic, cultural, socioeconomic and religious backgrounds.  

A great day for this introvert would consist of any of the following:  going 'antiquing' with my husband of  18 years, spending time with my 2 kids, or walking my dog Pinto while listening to an audio book or podcast. And throw coffee in with any of the above and I'm good to go.

I would love to come alongside you on your journey toward living and loving fully, individually and relationally.  You can begin seeing improvements within just a few sessions, so call or email for your free phone consultation today.