Melissa Mendoza

Biography

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPC-Associate) dedicated to supporting the growth and well-being of children and adolescents. I earned my LPC-Associate license in November 2023 and am currently practicing under the professional supervision of April West, M.S., LPC-S. My educational background includes a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in School Counseling from Texas A&M International University, which I completed in 2016. My extensive experience as a teacher and school counselor has provided me with a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities faced by young people. I genuinely enjoy watching children grow—academically, socially, physically, and mentally—and I am passionate about helping them reach their full potential. I strive to provide a safe, judgment-free, and nurturing environment where every child feels comfortable expressing their concerns. It is important to me that they know they are not alone and that I can be a consistent and reliable part of their support system. My counseling style is an integrated approach, primarily drawing from: Person-Centered Therapy (PCT): This approach is rooted in the belief that every individual possesses an inherent tendency toward personal growth and self-actualization. I aim to create the core conditions—congruence, unconditional positive regard, and empathic understanding—to help clients harness their innate capacity to resolve problems and enact positive change. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a skill-based approach where clients learn to identify, challenge, and change unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors. By acquiring and practicing new ways of thinking and coping, clients can manage problems more effectively and improve their overall emotional well-being. I utilize a combination of these and other techniques at any given time to precisely meet a client's specific and evolving needs. My goal is to support and work alongside my clients to help them reach their full potential.

Specializes in

Treatment Method

You can talk to your therapist in your first session about which approach would be the best fit for you.

Style