Melissa Melzer

Bio

Choosing to begin therapy can be a difficult decision. You might feel you should be able to solve your own problems. How can you make progress when you don’t know where to start? I provide a safe, judgment-free space for my clients. I am committed to providing clients with a culturally sensitive, LGBTQ+-affirming, supportive environment.

Many people have a trauma history. Trauma is unique to the individual and their life experiences. In therapy, acknowledging and processing one’s trauma can lead to growth, healing, and a better understanding of one’s personal strengths. I build a therapeutic relationship using direct communication and humor. Therapy can include laughter. I use an integrative therapeutic approach that focuses on a client’s emotional, physical, and mental health. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, solution-focused and psychodynamic modalities.

I earned my Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology – Counseling Practice from Roosevelt University. I completed my 60-hour Rape Crisis Counselor Certification from Resilience (a rape crisis counseling center). I have worked with many adults navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues in a university counseling center, a community mental health outpatient clinic, and a rape crisis counseling center.

In-network insurances

Blue Cross Blue Shield • Self pay • Aetna

Specialties

Addiction/Substance Abuse • Adjustment Disorder • Alcoholism • Anger Management • Anxiety • Bipolar Disorder • Daytime Sleepiness • DBT/CBT • Depression • Divorce • Domestic Violence • Grief and Loss/Bereavement • LGBTQIA+ • Life Coaching • Life Transition • Major Depressive Disorder • Mindfulness • Mood Disorders • Occupational Difficulties • Perinatal Mental Health • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - Trauma • Relationship Issues • Sadness • Self Esteem • Social Anxiety • Stress/Worry • Suicidal Thoughts • Women's Health Issues

Education and training

• Roosevelt University, Master of Arts Clinical Psychology Counseling Practice

Professional memberships

• American Counseling Association
• Illinois Mental Health Counselors Association

Languages spoken

• English

Pronouns

• she/her/hers