Melissa Simonini (She/her)

LCSW

Hello! I am a Melissa, I have a passion for helping people overcome their struggles with anxiety, PTSD, and addictions.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker in , NJ

Services
  • Individual
  • Couples
  • Family
  • Adolescent/Teen

About My Clients

I know it can feel overwhelming and frustrating to have not been able to find something that works. I am passionate about working with clients who have struggled with trauma and continue to experience symptoms including fear, panic attacks, intrusive memories, flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilence, and relationship struggles. I also feel connected to working with the issues of mood disorders - bipolar, anxiety, and depression, and substance use addiction recovery.

My Background and Approach

I am a licensed clinical social worker in New Jersey providing telehealth services (online therapy) at this time. In addition to my personal business, I continue to work for the past 5 years in a trauma-informed and DBT based women's program, serving a population of clients whom struggle primarily with PTSD, suicidal thoughts/behaviors, and mood disorders. I believe in the theories and practices of cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies as I have witnessed their encouraging and life changing results. I believe in building a trusting relationship within therapy for issues to be uncovered and worked on safely. In my experience change is a process, unlearning is a process, and it is one day at a time. The 12 step model has been a benefit to draw from in my work and personal life. If appropriate, I will also draw from spirituality, body/mind techniques, and energy healing. I am a reiki level II practitioner and I often use that perspective in my work.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

Outside of this work I enjoy many interests within spirituality, alternative health, and relationships. I love to learn new things and I attend trainings and workshops on various topics. I enjoy my family, friends, the outdoors, cooking, music, and travel. I consider myself to be an advocate for suicide prevention, addiction recovery, social justice, and human rights. I have participated in fundraising, walks, and an overnight walk with the american foundation for suicide prevention. I identify as LGBTQIA inclusive and affirming. Feel free to call or email me with any questions and to schedule a free phone consultation.

Techniques I Use

Specialties
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Trauma Therapy
Other Techniques
  • Addiction Counseling
  • Attachment Theory
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Couples Counseling
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • Family Therapy
  • Holistic Therapy
  • Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Relational Therapy
  • Somatic Therapy: Body-Based Healing for Emotional Trauma
  • Trauma Therapy

Issues I Treat

Specialties
Anxiety Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Other Issues
  • Abuse
  • Addiction
  • Anxiety
  • Attachment
  • Bipolar
  • Codependency
  • Depression
  • Divorce
  • Domestic Violence or Intimate Partner Violence
  • Grief or Loss
  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Personality Disorders
  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Self-Esteem
  • Self-Harm
  • Sexual Abuse or Assault
  • Spirituality
  • Suicidal Thoughts
  • Teen Issues
  • Women's Issues
Insurance Plans Accepted
  • Medicare
  • Optum
  • United Healthcare
I offer online counseling in the following states:

At A Glance

  • Experience: 11 years of practice
  • Rate: $120 - 175/session

Reach out to Melissa