Find a therapist in Rhinebeck, NY — covered by insurance

My motto is: "Helping People Help Themselves to a Better Life. I support people with a smile and a reassuring description of my skills and abilities. I reinforce my respect for their choices as we engage in therapy together. I work to create a safe space for clients to address their issues.

As the chief psychologist at Cornell and R.I.T. I had the privilege of working with young adults and professionals as they navigated challenging and transformative periods. Since then, I have been working in private practice, helping clients manage challenges related to anxiety, OCD, depression, life transitions, and relationship issues.

I have dedicated my career to helping children and young adults reach their fullest potential. With over 20 years of hands-on experience across clinical, educational, and neuropsychological settings, I provide compassionate, dignified care grounded in deep expertise. My training was shaped by leading scholars in neuropsychology, educational psychology, and behavior analysis. I trained in a neuropsychology lab at Stony Brook University, became a licensed, board-certified behavior analyst, completed doctoral training at Southern Illinois University under Dr. Barbara Cordoni, and later completed postdoctoral re-specialization in clinical neuropsychology under Dr. Elkhonon Goldberg, specializing in pediatric and complex behavioral cases.

Hi, I’m Melisa, a licensed mental health counselor passionate about helping individuals of all ages navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, using play therapy to foster expression and healing, while also supporting adults with issues like anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles.

If you're seeking support in overcoming life’s challenges, I’d be honored to work with you.

A big reason why I became a therapist is reflected in the quote: "Your vocation is where your deep gladness meets the world's deep need" (Frederick Buechner). I find tremendous joy in helping clients move toward healthier and more meaningful lives.

Is your life stressful and overwhelming? Are you ready to break self-destructive patterns and addictions? If your answer is yes, then help is at hand. Goal Focus Counseling Services (GFPS) incorporates faith along with psychodynamic intervention to give you an effective plan of action. Individualized attention is given to address persistent personal, relationship and work concerns. You and your family can express your feelings privately with someone who is supportive and non-judgmental. Our objective is to focus on goals to maximize your therapeutic experience. With over 20 yers. experience, we now offer video/phone sessions.

I have been helping people navigate their stressors and health concerns for the past 10 years. I use a direct and sensible approach, specializing in multiple interventions. I specialize helping others with anxiety, life stressors, mood concerns, relationship issues, and life changes. I look forward to working with you!

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health, I've worked with many clients to identify their goals, better understand themselves, and move toward the life they envision. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in empathy. We'll focus on helping you to decrease anxiety and stress, and build self-compassion and confidence as you navigate challenges, through the development of an individualized and practical toolkit.