Hi, I’m Melinna! Before telling you about me, let me commend you for taking this courageous step in seeking support through therapy as an avenue towards a healthier lifestyle. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in California with over 10 years of experience working therapeutically with children, teens, adults, couples, families, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community. I earned my Master of Marriage and Family Therapy degree from USC in 2016 and Bachelor of Psychology degree and Bachelor of English degree from Mount St. Mary’s University in 2013. I have experience conducting individual and group therapy, in-office and online, both residential and outpatient settings with clients presenting with depression, anxiety, relationship and parenting issues, eating disorders, teen concerns, body dysmorphia, and a wide range of challenges including insomnia, addiction, trauma, abuse, bipolar, as well as personal growth, adjustment issues, and crisis. My therapeutic approach varies depending on the client and their needs. Some of these approaches include person-centered therapy, holistic therapy, mindfulness therapy, humanistic therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectic behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. I mostly tend to draw from the person-centered approach, which means that I make consistent efforts to meet each client "where they are" and to serve as a catalyst to each individual who is progressing through their unique process of self-discovery and self-identification. I recognize that seeking counseling is not an easy decision. It is my intention to provide clients with a judgment-free space and I encourage clients to be themselves each session and to express emotions and thoughts freely. I would be honored to walk this journey with you. Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy music, sports, reading, cooking, spending time with my family and pets, meditating, and going to the beach. I look forward to meeting and working with you!