LGBT therapists in Syracuse, NY

I am an experienced Clinical Social Worker and Registered Yoga Teacher. My approach is down to earth, respectful, and compassionate. Clients I've worked with have ranged broadly in age, ethnicity, and gender identity.

I have 25 years of experience working with a variety of populations, from children to older adults. I’ve been privileged to help people navigate through various life situations including conflicts in relationships, depression, anxiety, stress, grief and chronic illness.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed in New York. I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Saint John Fisher College.

I specialize in working with adults ages 18-40, focusing on religious trauma, life transitions, grief, self-esteem, relationships, and LGBTQIA+ issues. My work is rooted in psychodynamic therapy and incorporates CBT & DBT skills according to each client's needs.

Melissa specializes in working with people from many walks of life -from those that are just looking to become more aware of their internal patterns to those with specific goals. She has experience working in high stress environments, with clients who have issues related to mental health, substance use, trauma, and more. She is also passionate about helping those who are interested in cultivating leadership skills, managing the stress of challenging work environments, supervising staff and employee burnout prevention.

I am a warm, grounded therapist who prioritizes emotional safety while building genuine rapport. Once trust is established, I thoughtfully challenge clients in ways that promote insight and growth without undermining that sense of security. I allow glimpses of my own humanity, which helps clients feel understood while still maintaining clear professional boundaries. Overall, my style reflects a balance of compassion, depth, and seasoned clinical judgment.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with experience supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, relationship challenges, and the impact of racial and ethnic social injustices. I work with clients who are seeking support during difficult life experiences and who want to better understand themselves and their relationships.

It's difficult making the first phone call, booking an appointment and admitting you need help. Whether it's depression, anxiety, a mood disorder or trauma, it's frightening to admit that everything isn't how you want it to be and you don't have all the answers. If you're experiencing sadness, anxiety, mood swings, intrusive thoughts or images, flash backs, numbness or insomnia, there is hope and there is help. I'm going to teach you skills to manage you symptoms, emotions and relationships more effectively.