

Cigna members in Wantagh can connect with mental health providers on Headway, where sessions are available within two weeks and many offer free consultations. Our network of 7,518 providers supports both talk therapy and medication management, with copays ranging from $0-$40 and flexible virtual or in-person options.
I’m a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist and drama therapist who works with women and young adults navigating anxiety, eating disorder recovery, substance use, and life transitions.
I have experience in inpatient rehab and use a harm reduction, nonjudgmental approach. My work combines talk therapy with creative techniques when helpful—though there’s no pressure to be “artistic.”
I hold a BS Degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Cornell University and an MA in Art Therapy from NYU. I am licensed by the State of NY and nationally Board Certified by ATCB. Fluent in Italian; Certificate in Trauma and Creative Arts; IFS-informed, post-Master's level trainings in CBT, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and IMAGO relationship therapy. 20 years experience with people from 3-99. Creative, empathic and client-centered, your treatment will be as unique as you are.
I am an experienced Mental Health Counselor with an international background in clinical psychology and research. I am deeply committed to provide help during difficult phases of a person's life journey. I specialize in working with adults navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, identity crisis, and bereavement. I am also experienced in working with couples and the specific challenges they encounter in their relationship.
I have been trained in expressive arts therapy and is a certified gestalt therapist. I utilizes the arts according to each person’s abilities to imagine and develop body awareness. My eclectic approach suits people who seek to find themselves in mental health. As a blind Japanese immigrant, I work especially well with differently-abled people and Pan Asians.
I work with people who are stuck at certain crossroads in their life. Typically, the external problems seem to solve themselves once therapy reaches a certain point. This applies to work, relationships, life goals, and creative pursuits. My job is to help you transform mental or physical pain into something that is bearable and makes life worth living.
I work with a wide range of clients.
I welcome any questions you have. Feel free to give me a call or email with any questions you have about starting therapy.
Hi, I’m Melisa, a licensed mental health counselor passionate about helping individuals of all ages navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, using play therapy to foster expression and healing, while also supporting adults with issues like anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles.
If you're seeking support in overcoming life’s challenges, I’d be honored to work with you.



Headway makes it easy to get affordable in-network mental health care with Cigna — from finding the right therapist or psychiatrist, to understanding costs, to booking your first session.