Melissa Delizia LSW, CPC

MELISSA SPECIALIZES IN GRIEF COUNSELING (PROVIDING CARE AS A DEATH DOULA) AND WORKING WITH LGBTQ+ AND NEURODIVERGENT POPULATIONS. MELISSA OFFERS TELEHEALTH TALK THERAPY FOR THE YOUNG ADULT POPULATION.

What inspired you to choose a career in social work / professional counseling? 

When I was younger, I always thought I wanted to be a teacher. When I started college, I had a psychology professor who said, “therapists are the teachers of the self and emotions,” and that inspired me to explore becoming a therapist. I decided on social work when I learned more about the way our experiences and environments shape who we become, and the intersection of human rights and clinical practice was the sweet spot for me. 

Can you describe any therapeutic modalities or techniques you use in clinical practice? 

I am a certified Sand Play Therapist and use that for clients who are interested. I am also trained in trauma informed yoga, EFT tapping, grief work, and utilize talk therapy along with other body centered, grounding modalities. 

What’s a hobby or interest you enjoy outside of work? 

I love to read and can always be found with a book or my kindle in my bag. If you ever want to start a conversation with me, ask me what I’m reading! 

Do you have a favorite book, movie, song or quote that inspires you?  

Two of my favorite reads are Briefly Perfectly Human by Alua Arthur, and The Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green. 

How would you describe your approach in practice? 

I would describe my approach to be solution focused and person centered, meaning I like to help clients set achievable goals and the space we hold together looks different for each individual person. I am LGBTQ+ specialized, trauma-informed, and grief centered in the work that I do and that shows up differently depending on the unique needs of each client. I work with an anti-racist, gender diverse, neurodivergent conscious lens, and continue to dedicate myself to further education on human rights and best practice.