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Hi! My name is Melissa Filippi. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of IL and I provide therapy via telehealth. I have been a social worker for over 25 years and have worked with preteens through senior adults in a variety of therapeutic settings.
My approach
I use evidence-based techniques that have been proven to work such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Positive Psychology, and Client-Centered therapies. However, the specific focus of our therapy sessions will depend on your needs and preferences. Our therapeutic relationship will be built on the genuineness, warmth, acceptance, trust, and openness.
My focus
I specialize in working with clients with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sleep issues, stress, Autism, health problems, and Christian life coaching. Teenagers through senior adults experiencing depression, anxiety, OCD, complex trauma/dissociation, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, suicidality, self-harm, substance abuse, and bipolar disorder are clients that would be a good fit for my expertise. I practice from a relational model and often use emotion-focused, person-centered interventions while also incorporating more concrete skills including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
My communication style
I strive to make every person I work with feel comfortable, heard, and valued. I am told I am personable and warm. My priority is to create a nurturing and safe environment for you to work through your problems and work with you to improve your quality of life.
My journey to mental healthcare
I love what I do! Being a therapist is more than a job--it reflects a core part of me that enjoys getting to know people at a real level. The therapy process allows for authentic conversations and for people to take off their "masks." As a Therapist, I guide people through personal challenges, help ease emotional burdens, and empower people to achieve their goals. Through therapy, clients can find new ways to live and have healthier and more satisfying relationships.
My goals for you
Everyone is coming to therapy for a different reason. Our first session will mostly be for getting comfortable and developing a connection but we will also spend time discussing what brought you to therapy. My priority is to create a nurturing and safe environment for you to work through your problems. We will work together to determine what that path looks like for you.
My first session with you
In our first session, you are welcome to share how you have been feeling and what you would like to get out of our time together. I will work to help you feel comfortable and safe and you will get an understanding of how I work with clients. I will ask questions to make sure I understand your feelings and you are welcome to ask me questions at any time during therapy.
