Hi there, I'm Melissa!

Encountering life’s stressors and transitions can challenge one’s mental well-being. In these experiences, I believe that finding a safe, collaborative partnership is the foundation for one to confront suffering, fortify strengths, and deepen self-awareness. I bring a curious and humble perspective to assist clients in living more authentically.

My focus

There are many reasons for you to seek help for your mental well-being - whether it’s confronting pain of the past, addressing current life stressors, or anticipating future uncertainties. You may want to improve your relationship with yourself and with others, or find ways to better cope with and enhance your life. Therapy is a great way to start.

My approach

I take a client-centered approach, beginning where you are most comfortable to build a trusting therapeutic relationship. My overall approach to providing care is one of a strengths-based, humanistic nature and will integrate elements of CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, and Family System theories, in order to meet your personal therapy goals.

My communication style

Our communication is paramount to forming a strong therapeutic relationship. I offer an honest and thoughtful communication style and perspective that incorporates authentic humility and humor. My goal is for you to feel that you, too, can communicate in your preferred way, while feeling seen and understood during our time together.

My journey to mental healthcare

I began this journey to deepen my self-awareness and better understand my own journey in adulthood, while often struggling to navigate the world around me. My work as a therapist has grounded me in my life, and a richness has been created through my experiences and connections in working with children, adolescents, and adults who inspire me daily.

My goals for you

Identifying your treatment goals may feel like an intimidating task. We’ll examine this process together and determine the best path forward with your unique strengths and needs in mind. If your treatment objectives change along the way, we can adjust the plan accordingly to ensure that you are getting the most benefit from your therapy experience.

Our first session

I’ll be looking forward to meeting you and learning about you in our first session. I’ll ask you about what brings you to therapy and anything else that you feel comfortable sharing. It’s OK to feel nervous or uncertain about beginning this new journey. I’m here to guide you - we’ll take it one step at a time.

I identify as...

Female
Caucasian or White

Expertise

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Motivational Interviewing

Psychodynamic

Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)

+ 8 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Minors
Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

USC PPO / EPO Plan
Aetna
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem

+ 38 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Dominican College of San Rafael.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

In-person sessions

1030 Sir Francis Drake Blvd Suite 120, Rm 8, Greenbrae, CA 94904

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Melissa Benson