Melanie Boccio

I work with adults experiencing anxiety and depression, with a focus on high-functioning individuals who struggle with overthinking, high self-expectations, and self-worth tied to productivity. My approach includes psychological flexibility, connect with your values, and responding differently to difficult thoughts and emotions.

My path into this work began with my own experience in therapy, which shaped my belief in the importance of feeling seen and understood. I earned my M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Long Island University and have experience in both outpatient substance use treatment and private practice.

Many of my clients are self-aware and emotionally intelligent, yet feel stuck in overthinking, self-imposed pressure, fear of the unknown, and avoiding uncomfortable emotions. In our work together, we focus on changing your relationship with your thoughts and gradually building tolerance for discomfort through collaborative, exposure-based approaches. I integrate mindfulness and acceptance strategies to help you respond to difficult thoughts and emotions with greater awareness and authenticity. Together, we identify values-based steps so you can engage more fully in your life. The goal is to help you build confidence, reduce distress, and live more intentionally.

The first session is sort of a “getting to know you” session. We’ll talk about what’s bringing you to therapy, explore your current challenges, and discuss how therapy might be helpful for you. As part of this process, we also complete a biopsychosocial assessment, which simply means gathering information about your biological, psychological, and social history to get a fuller understanding of you as a whole person.