Student Veteran Services Co-Coordinator, Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Education
- Ed.S. Mental Health Counseling, University of Florida
- M.Ed. Mental Health Counseling, University of Florida
- B.S. Psychology, Minor in Education, University of Florida
Professional Interests
Melissa’s professional interests include working with individuals who have experienced crisis, trauma, depression, relationship issues, and other adverse life experiences. Other areas of interest include suicide prevention, outreach, education, training, and supervision.
Approach to Therapy
Melissa’s approach to therapy is client-centered at the core. She works with clients to help people become the best version of themselves. Melissa believes in a collaborative approach where clients are the experts in their own lives. Her approach in therapy also integrates emotion-focused and cognitive behavioral interventions.
Approach to Supervision
Melissa’s approach to supervision prioritizes collaboration, empowerment, and growth. She encourages self-reflection in supervision with the emphasis that the therapist is the most important “tool” in the therapy room. Her supervision style is a safe and supportive environment to enhance skills, reflect, and receive feedback.
Approach to Wellness
For Melissa, wellness looks like regularly taking trips to watch the sunrise. She also enjoys attending NBA games, connecting with family and friends, and playing tennis.
Other Activities
Melissa is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a therapeutic approach that can help clients process difficult experiences in a safe and effective way.