Good day! My name is Dr. McCarthy or Dr. Melissa whichever name you prefer. I am not the famous "Melissa McCarthy" but I believe laughter is good medicine. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) with over 15 years of experience. I am near Fort Worth, Texas working with clients state-wide via telehealth. My focus population is young adults (18-35 years old) who are experiencing stress or anxiety due to life transitions, situational circumstances, or athletic/academic performance pressures. My education includes AA/Business, BAS/Psychology, MA/Counseling, and PhD/Counselor Education & Supervision. My experience includes college campus counseling, trauma response, crisis intervention, individual, and couples counseling.
My approach
My therapeutic approach is dependent on the client's needs. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Solutions-Focused Therapy however I am trained in multiple modalities to best serve my client's needs. My design is client-centered and strengths-based which yields a better understanding of the client while establishing a trusting environment for positive results.
My focus
My client focus is young adults (18-35 years old) who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures. Oftentimes, this age group needs someone to come alongside to help navigate the situation while providing empowering strategies to reach life's personal goals.
My communication style
My communication style is warm and interactive. I view therapy as a partnership that promotes mutual respect, sensitivity, compassion, and a nonjudgmental atmosphere in which to discuss the challenges you are currently facing.
My journey to mental healthcare
My career development journey has allowed me the privilege to work in many different settings which has enriched my ability to connect with my clients. I have always wanted to be in the mental health profession however due to life situations was not able to attend college until later in life. Before obtaining formal training and licensure, I was a Red Cross Disaster Response volunteer member and CISM trained which allowed for years of great experience. I am an advocate for holistic wellness and life-work balance. Please do not let my informal bio pic allude that I am less than professional. I thoroughly enjoy empowering others to achieve their life goals and I enjoy staying active. Hope to meet you virtually, soon!
My goals for you
My approach to goal setting is to understand your needs so that collectively, you and I, can work to develop a treatment plan that will empower you to meet your unique and specific goals.
My first session with you
Our first session will be spent talking and learning your goals for therapy. This conversation will springboard our therapeutic focus however we will continually gauge the process to ensure the sessions are effective and successful.