“We do the work together, you and I, exploring the meanings behind the words you say. Like rays of the sun shining through, clarity comes. Then, you know what next you shall do. Insight makes way for action and change.
-Melissa D. Sexton, PhD, MDiv, LMFT”
about Melissa
Who Benefits from therapy?
Individuals often seek therapy, not because there is something wrong with them, but because there is something very right with them and validation provides a real sense of relief. Many people use therapy to help think through a problem they face or because they have depression and anxiety. Talking through problems and symptoms affords an objective perspective, creating opportunities for real change. In a safe space with a trained person like me who listens and offers feedback, people gain insight and reclaim agency.
Couples most often seek therapy to explore their communication issues. I facilitate conversations that help disentangle the knots of resentments that keep them from truly hearing one another.
Families, many times, find that therapy works when there is a life cycle challenge or a developmental task, seeking a more systemic resolution. Teens and "tweens" will often act out larger family dynamics. When this happens, there is a family story emerging that may need to be expressed for the better outcomes of the whole family.
Groups work toward self awareness and community building, because people need people and groups are where the most solid work often happens. Presence. Insight. Curiosity. Support. Groups help people become their most authentic selves. Ask me about how you might belong to a group or how I can craft an experience with your group--whether that's in a corporate setting, a church or religious setting, a non-profit, or a group retreat.
Specialties
Faq
“I attribute my wonderful marriage and healthier outlook on life to Melissa. 5 years ago, my husband and I first started seeing Melissa as a marriage counselor because we were turning into two ships passing in the night. She helped us relocate why we got married in the first place and we now have a very healthy and loving relationship. Since then, I have continued seeing Melissa independently to help me process the long battle of losing my mother to dementia among other personal challenges. I don’t know where I’d be or what I’d be doing if I hadn’t reached out to Melissa so many years ago. She really is the best therapist I’ve ever had and I can’t recommend her enough. -a client”