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My name is Melissa Bolivar and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. While therapy can be useful in many different ways, I view it first and foremost as a powerful tool for self-reflection and self-exploration. My goal is to help you dig deep and understand yourself better in order to take effective action in becoming the person you want to be and in making choices that create meaningful and long-lasting change.
My approach
My approach to therapy is rooted in prioritizing the therapeutic relationship. I believe that therapy is most successful when there is trust, safety, and attunement between therapist and client. My intention is to meet you with empathy, openness, and curiosity, and to tailor the tools I use to your individual needs. My work is most often informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness, self-compassion, and attachment theory.
My focus
I enjoy working with clients who want to increase their insight and gain a deeper understanding of themselves. Whether that's to solve a particular problem, navigate a life transition, learn how to better cope with stressors, or untangle and heal deep wounds from the past. I also have experience and feel comfortable working with clients who are struggling with more intense or chronic symptoms.
My communication style
When communicating with my clients, I strive to be empathetic, warm, and non-judgmental; while also being direct and honest. I listen actively and attentively, providing reflections, feedback, and suggestions when helpful and appropriate.
My goals for you
Goal setting is key to the success of therapy. I will work collaboratively with you to help you understand what changes you want to make, and guide you in clarifying your goals and priorities for therapy. We will regularly check in on goals to ensure that we are addressing what is important to you and that we are making progress.
My first session with you
During our first session, we will focus on getting to know each other. I want to understand what is bringing you to therapy and what you would like to work on. I will also share my thoughts on how I could best support you, and we will begin exploring a plan for working together.
