Christie Marie Melonson

LPC

I want people to know that therapy is not what you see in the movies... we don't make you lay on the couch or shrink your head or tell you who ruined your life or embarrass you! Therapists also don't force you to discuss anything you don't want to talk about. Therapy is about getting to know you and helping you clarify your personal, relationship or life goals while building a relationship of teamwork and mutual respect. Good therapists point out your strengths and teach you tools to help you feel better and reach your personal goals. Another stereotype of therapy is that you have to talk about painful things to feel better and this is not true. Many times therapy can be fun and enjoyable. It should be a process of discovery and action. Your therapist is like an encouraging coach who gives you the questions and the tools that help empower you to move forward toward your goals.

The most powerful thing I have learned in my career as a therapist is that nothing is impossible when it comes to transformation. In other words, there is no wound that cannot be repaired if the person truly wants to heal. I have worked with survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, children through adults and I have seen amazing transformations when people put in the work to change. People need different types of approaches for healing. The therapy process is not always easy, but therapy really does work.

I have researched multicultural issues in counseling leadership as well as cultural issues that happen in clinical counseling settings. This informs my daily practice with clients to be cognizant of their cultural and spiritual values and needs. I do my best to try to understand the perspective of my client and to honor what is most important to them. I also approach psychotherapy by focusing on cultural and familial wisdom and traditions that can be used to help my client reach their goals. I am a multiracial person and not afraid to discuss issues of religion, race or ethnicity with my clients.