Life is tough! I recognize and understand that sometimes life knocks us down or throws us a curve ball. Every now and then it can make it hard to get out of bed, ignoring our everyday responsibilities. Sometimes it can make us very anxious, worrying all the time if the decisions we’re making are the right ones. Making difficult transitions in life (i.e. what college to go to, what job to accept and am I in the right relationship) can be stressful. Therapy is a great opportunity to get a new perspective, to increase self-esteem and to feel more confident in the decisions we are making, re-framing those automatic negative thoughts.

My name is Melissa Davis and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor.  I graduated from Seton Hall University with a Master’s Degree in Counseling.  I have also received Certifications in Play Therapy and Substance Abuse Therapy.   I have been in the Mental Health field since 2007, providing a wide array of services.  I have worked with numerous populations such as men, women and children, domestic violence victims, marriage and family concerns as well as substance use, personality disorders, trauma, depression and anxiety.

My counseling approach varies from client to client. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (how our thoughts, feelings and behaviors affect each other), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (committing to behavior changes) as well as Systems Therapy (you have multiple roles) and Motivational Interviewing (finding your motivation).  I am also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strengthen Families Program and SPARCS (Structured Psychotherapy for Adolescents Responding to Chronic Stress).  I prefer to use a mixture of approaches depending on what you are experiencing at that time, knowing that your treatment goals may change throughout treatment.

What can you expect from me? I offer free 15-minute consultations so that we can ensure this new relationship is the best fit for both of us.  I am very easy going and enjoy building relationships, laughing and getting the therapeutic work done.  I love interacting and getting to know what makes you the best version of yourself.  I know that asking for help is a difficult process. It can be scary to trust another adult with your secrets, past traumas and current situation. I know that you are not taking this decision lightly. Please know that I will be there for you, through every step of the way. I will help guide you and provide a safe space for you to express yourself.