Melissa Fortunato Psychotherapy, LMHC

My journey toward this career began at a very young age due to witnessing firsthand the impact mental health struggles can have on the individual experiencing them as well as their families. I observed how alone we can feel when struggling with mental health issues and through that, I realized I wanted to help support and guide others to see beyond. I began my training in an inpatient psychiatric unit, working with adults who were suffering from severe mental health and substance abuse issues. I then transitioned into private practice where I've worked with adolescents, young adults, and couples. My current work has focused on young adults navigating the transition into adulthood. There is no set road map in life and finding our own individual paths can be challenging, but therapy can offer a space where you can gain greater awareness of what your path might be.

I focus on creating a compassionate space where clients feel free to share their deepest thoughts and most troubling emotions. Our emotions are meant to be felt and expressed, and I place importance on building your ability and confidence in regulating and coping with them in a healthy way. Sessions will be a collaborative environment where we will work together to develop goals that focus on improving your wellbeing and aid in guiding you toward a more fulfilling life. I believe providing clients with homework between sessions provides an opportunity to put skills into practice. I tailor my therapy to each individual client and encourage active feedback to make sure you receive the treatment that is best for you.

I regularly engage in trainings and webinars in order to continue to improve my skill set and ability to best address my clients’ needs. I incorporate a variety of evidence-based practices tailored to each individual’s needs. I am currently in the process of being certified in the Gottman Method.

I am most hopeful and excited that the attention toward mental health will continue to increase acceptance and the willingness to seek treatment. I believe the shift in prioritizing our mental health in the same way we do our physical health is long overdue. We need to continue to work on normalizing mental health struggles and recognizing how empowering it is to strengthen our ability to work through them.