Melissa McKinney

My name is Melissa McKinney, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology based in Adel, Georgia. I work with clients 13 years and older, specializing in depression, anxiety, stress, and life transition issues. I primarily work with clients utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy in order to assist in identifying a life worth living and developing skills to obtain life goals and feel better overall.

My approach

My therapeutic approach is very person-centered, and I adapt my approach based on the needs of each client. I work from a Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavior Therapy framework in order to assist my clients in gaining insight into their reality and underlying origins of behavior in an effort to work together to develop a clear course of treatment.

My focus

Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work with a wide range of populations and clientele. I have found my approach to be the best fit for adolescents, young adults, and older adults dealing with stress and life transitions. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and behavior management issues. I work to help my clients build a strong foundation of effective skills in order for them to effectively manage emotions and navigate life transitions and stressors while also gaining confidence to advocate for themselves and their needs throughout their daily lives.

My communication style

Working from a Dialectical Behavior framework, my communication style is one of Radical Genuineness and non-judgment. I am myself during sessions and working with clients, and I strive to create an atmosphere that is warm, welcoming, and accepting. This means that I often practice the skills I am teaching during sessions. I recognize that we are all humans, and although I am a therapist, I experience struggles and overwhelming emotions as well as actively practice and model healthy skills with my clients. I want clients to feel comfortable being open with me about anything, and I pride myself on listening and guiding without judgment.

My journey to mental healthcare

I decided to become a therapist because I have witnessed the power therapy can have in helping people achieve personal goals and overcome obstacles in their lives. Much like most people, I have a strong personal connection with mental health and therapy and wanted to help others become their best selves, much like therapy helped me and my family members become our best selves. I have always been drawn to helping others during difficult times, and I enjoy watching others accomplish their goals.

My goals for you

Setting goals for therapy should be a collaborative process and involves working together to identify goals for our work together. Building a strong, open, and trusting relationship with one another is the first step. Goal setting is also dynamic and will change as you progress in therapy. We will regularly have conversations regarding goals and progress to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and make changes to our focus on your needs change.

My first session with you

During our first session together, you can expect to spend the majority of our time discussing the reasons for your choice to begin therapy, how you have been feeling, and sharing background information regarding your past experiences. It is important that you have a good understanding of who I am as well as the process of therapy so there will be ample opportunity to ask me questions about therapy and education regarding treatment and why you may be experiencing these feelings. The first session, and often several after, will be focused on getting to know one another and building a connection and foundation of trust. We will work together to identify areas of need in order for me to know what will work best for you moving forward.