Melissa is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of Arizona and California and also holds a California credential as a School Social Worker (PPSC). In addition to her private practice, she provides services through the Lomi Psychotherapy Clinic in Northern California. Melissa earned a PhD in Transformative Studies from the California Institute of Integral Studies and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of New England.
Arizona LCSW-18590, California LCSW86368
California Pupil Personnel Services Credential, 170216786
“Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose. In that space lies our growth and our freedom.”
- Viktor E Frankl
- The focus of Melissa's work is in two areas:
- The impact of complex trauma
- How individuals with serious mental illness or dual diagnosis (mental illness with a co-occurring substance use disorder) cope effectively with symptoms
Complex Trauma and PTSDComplex trauma and resulting complex PTSD involves multiple major stressors that have occurred over a long period of time in trusted interpersonal relationships. It can develop as a result of childhood abuse and neglect, as well as long-term family violence, and it can involve complex interrelationships with substance use and moderate to severe mental health issues.
Coping with Moderate to Severe Mental Health Issues and Dual Diagnosis
Those who deal with moderate to severe mental illness may find they have challenges in many aspects of life, from basic daily functioning to distressing symptoms of impaired cognition, erratic moods, and loss of ability to manage and cope with important relationships. Substance use can increase or further complicate the challenges.
Melissa works with individual adult clients, and the work may include one or more collateral individuals. A collateral individual is typically a spouse or partner, family member, or friend who participates in therapy to further the treatment interests of the client. A collateral individual is not considered a client because she or he is not the subject of the treatment.