Welcome! My name is Melissa Lopez-Tapia, and I am a first-generation bilingual Latina therapist (LCSW) of Jalisciense descent. My approach to the therapeutic process and relationship stems from humility, compassion, empathy, and most importantly person-centered while remaining trauma-informed. In my 7 years of practice, my work has led me to assist and collaborate with individuals in navigating and healing in areas such as Domestic Violence, trauma, anxiety, PTSD, depression, relationship/life stressors, life transitions, and the impact of childhood trauma in adulthood.
My approach
My goal is to provide you with a safe and trusting environment that is free of judgment where as a team we can explore your thoughts/feelings, concerns, challenges, hopes, and goals, while also helping you find and build upon your coping skill tool kit. I frequently tap into a strengths-based approach to help individuals find and connect with their inner strengths while feeling empowered. I also utilize mindfulness, art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) Motivational interviewing, and Managing and Adapting Practices (MAP). I am also 40-hour Domestic Violence trained and certified with 7 years of experience in the field.
My focus
I typically work with adults 18+ dealing with anxiety, depression PTSD, childhood trauma, and survivors of domestic violence.
My communication style
I utilize a peaceful tone in session while also gently taping into the strengths-based approach to support individuals in reflecting on and digging deep in effort and support of them taping into their own strengths while we walk along this growth and healing journey together.
My journey to mental healthcare
As is the human life experience, life's hardships and curveballs are the very things that brought me to this path as a therapist, coupled with the fact that I love to be of support and service to others. The very curiosity in understanding and reflecting on my own experiences while striving to heal and create a change for the future version of myself and family is the major contributor to this life path as a therapist. In addition, my passion for supporting others navigating through their own life experiences and healing journey has continued to be a driving and motivating factor for me on this path as a therapist.