Melissa Vollhardt LMFT

Every client is different, and I don't take a one size fits all approach. A strong therapeutic relationship is crucial and I strive to meet my clients where they are at, build on their strengths, & support them collaboratively in accomplishing their goals. For children, I strongly believe that families play a crucial role in how children develop & heal. The level of involvement from parents & caregivers will look different from family to family, but in my experience, children heal faster when we all work together. My goal is to build rapport with both, the child & the caregiver. My approaches work best with caregivers who are open to feedback & education to help meet their childs therapeutic needs & goals.

I take a very person-centered approach to counseling & focus on providing a place of unconditional positive regard, warmth, & empathy with all the children & adults I see. When working with children, adolescents, and even some grown-ups, I will often incorporate Play Therapy. When working with children, it is essential that therapists can strategically create an environment that meets the child on their level, in their world, to allow for the expression of feelings in the most age-appropriate way. Just as adults "talk out" their issues, a child's natural way of working out a problem is through play. Self-expression happens more naturally through play for children. In addition to Play Therapy, I often utilize CBT, narrative therapy, family systems/relational therapy, & solution- focused.

• Florida, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, MT4528