LGBT therapists in San Mateo, CA

Professional Journey

Melissa became licensed in California in 2010 as an LCSW, following her Master’s Degree. Since then, she has continued learning and growing. Her career began in 2006, working with families experiencing various crises and trauma. Melissa has pursued additional training to specialize further. She has worked with depression, life transition issues, anxiety, panic disorders, identify questions, and lgbtqia populations.

Specialized Training

Melissa is trained in somatic therapy and EMDR therapy, which are effective for treating clients with experiences of sexual abuse and assault. She has also studied sexuality and somatic sex therapy, coaching clients on how to reconnect erotically with themselves and others.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California with 27 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges. I offer tele-health only sessions from the comfort of your home, making care accessible no matter where you are in California. I accept Anthem and Magellan insurance. My practice is intentionally small — I keep a limited caseload so every client receives my full attention and care. I am warm, experienced, and deeply committed to showing up for the people I work with.

Life can feel heavy sometimes—uncertain, overwhelming, and out of balance in ways that are hard to put into words. If you’ve been carrying a lot on your own, it makes sense that reaching out for support might feel difficult, even vulnerable. I want you to know that those feelings are understood, and you are not alone in them.

You don’t have to figure everything out by yourself. I’m here to gently walk alongside you as you begin to take those first steps—at your pace, in your way. Whether you’re feeling stuck, disconnected, or simply tired, this can be a space where you’re allowed to just be, without pressure or judgment.

I approach therapy with warmth, care, and deep respect for your unique story. Together, we’ll create a space where you can feel safe enough to express yourself openly, explore what’s been weighing on your heart, and begin to reconnect with yourself and the relationships that matter most to you.

With extensive experience working with adults, I tailor each session to your needs, honoring where you are while gently supporting where you want to go. Healing doesn’t have to happen all at once—and you don’t have to do it alone.

I'm a licensed clinical therapist who helps clients build the skills to process life's challenges.

I'm Melody Claiborne, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in Washington and California. I specialize in ADHD, anxiety, and depression, offering thorough diagnostic evaluations and personalized medication management for adults. I believe in care that sees the whole person — not just a diagnosis. Having witnessed patients go unheard during their most vulnerable moments, I built my practice around genuine advocacy and connection. I work at your pace, in a safe and supportive environment where your concerns are fully heard and your goals guide your treatment.

I’m so glad you’re here. I’m Nina, a licensed therapist who is passionate about helping people feel better and live more fulfilling lives. I’ve worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds and offer services in both English and Spanish. My goal is to support your well-being by helping you build skills, navigate challenges, and create healthier, more meaningful relationships.

I truly believe we are all connected in some way. Systemically, there are many ways to improve the way we relate to our own self, and with others. My philosophy is when I improve, everyone else around me improves. My own experiences have informed the way I approach problems and seek solutions, with the goal of being happier and performing better. Throughout my life, I’ve been in the service of others. I am a US Army Veteran and have many years experience training/development of others.

Manisha Patel is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and has a M.A. in Psychology from Chapman University. Ms. Patel has experience working with various clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and needs for the past 22 years.

Eclectic approach that integrates a variety of modalities based on each clients needs.

Feeling lighter and leaving with tools & skills to utilize between sessions to better navigate.