Melissa Melillo

Hi, I'm Melissa, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and founder of Ferreira Counseling Services. With over 12 years of experience in the mental health field, I've worked in a variety of settings including hospitalizations, Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), outpatient services, and crisis intervention services. I earned my Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from Caldwell University.

I specialize in supporting women through some of life's most challenging and transformative experiences. Whether you're struggling with fertility challenges, adjusting to pregnancy, navigating the postpartum period, or feeling overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood, therapy can provide a space to process your emotions, find support, and reconnect with yourself.

I also enjoy working with young adults who are navigating the transition to college, entering the workforce, building relationships, and figuring out what comes next after graduation. These life stages can bring uncertainty, stress, and self-doubt, but they also offer opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

Anxiety and stress often show up during these transitions. If you find yourself overthinking, constantly worrying, feeling overwhelmed, or struggling to balance the demands of daily life, we can work together to develop practical tools that help you feel more grounded and confident.

I believe therapy should feel like a safe place to slow down, reflect, and work through life's challenges without fear of judgment. My style is warm, supportive, and conversational, while also providing practical tools and strategies that you can use outside of sessions.

I work collaboratively with clients to understand what's contributing to their struggles and identify realistic steps toward feeling better. Whether you're managing anxiety, facing fertility or postpartum challenges, adjusting to motherhood, or navigating a major life transition, I aim to help you feel supported, empowered, and less alone in the process.

I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and strengths-based techniques, but I tailor therapy to each client's individual needs and goals. Together, we'll focus on building coping skills, increasing self-understanding, and creating meaningful, lasting change.

Your first session is a chance for us to begin building a relationship and explore what's bringing you to therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, navigating fertility or postpartum challenges, adjusting to motherhood, or feeling overwhelmed by a major life transition, this is a space where you can share your story without judgment.

I'll ask questions to better understand your experiences, current stressors, strengths, and goals for therapy. You don't need to have everything figured out or know exactly where to start.

Most importantly, I want you to leave our first session feeling heard, supported, and hopeful about the path ahead. Together, we'll create a plan that feels meaningful and realistic for your unique needs and goals.