About

My name is Melissa. Growing up I was always “The Listener”, the person that anyone could talk and listening to them came organically to me. Through the years, my family upbringing exposed me to many aspects of life which gave me the opportunity to learn through diverse experiences, and my academic experiences as an undergraduate student sparked my interest in human behavior and grieving. I began my journey at Kean University where I received my Bachelor Degree in Psychology with a minor in Health Education. While pursuing my degree, I interned at The Ronald McDonald House. Upon completing my degree at Kean University, I was accepted into the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Graduate Program at Kean University. During my Master’s program, I completed my internship at St. Clare’s Behavioral Health Treatment Facility and eventually graduated with honors with my Masters of the Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Upon completion of my Master’s degree, I worked at the Non- Profit Integrity House in the Long Term Residential Facility for Women as Program Manager. There I conducted both individual and group therapy, as well as working closely with a multidisciplinary team on treatment and discharge planning while simultaneously running the unit. I have excelled in previous roles due to my empathetic approach, positive communication skills, and treatment approach to meet the needs of everyone. I have held a special interest in the areas of Grief and Loss and I am a Certified Grief Informed Professional. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey and a National Certified Counselor. I work in outpatient treatment of mental health and substance abuse fields with the goal in mind to make mental and physical wellness available to all by utilizing evidenced based practices. I am an avid reader and enjoy learning and expanding my knowledge. I believe I am a critical thinker, understanding, and judgement free. I bring a no nonsense approach to my practice.