Hi! I’m Melissa Leaver and I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who works with teens and adults who are experiencing a disturbance in their daily lives. Whether you are encountering sadness, stress, loss, or navigating a life transition, my goal is to provide guidance in identifying the origin of the disruption and empower you to explore potential solutions toward overcoming them!
For most people, reaching out for help is difficult. Perhaps those you have tried to confide in misunderstand you or underestimate the courage it takes to be vulnerable. In our therapeutic relationship, I strive to promote a safe, comfortable environment that is free of judgement and criticism. I want to hear your story! It’s an honor to step into the role as confidant, listening ear, sounding board, and advocate. It’s what I’m here for!
My therapeutic style is very much person-centered, meaning you will be treated warmly with genuine empathy and kindness, no matter what obstacle you’re facing. Together, we develop a clearer understanding of your thoughts about yourself and the world around you. Then, we begin to make changes at a pace that feels best for you. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma Focused Therapy and can employ techniques that best fit your individual needs.
As a born and raised Staten Islander, I have an appreciation for our unique culture and understanding of challenges that arise. No matter what you’re carrying, you don’t have to carry it alone. Support is here – and I’d welcome the opportunity to hear your story.
In addition, I am passionate about providing guidance to the emerging Mental Health Counselors! Clinical Supervision is available to those with their Limited Permits, during which we focus on the importance of client care, implementation of therapeutic modalities, transference and counter-transference.