I imagine that if you are here, you are tired of feeling this way. You may be stuck and unsure how to feel different. You may have tried so many ideas already and none of them have worked! It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California with 10 years of experience working with adults. I utilize a trauma-informed approach and through this lens, can assist you with concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, grief, childhood and adult trauma, Bipolar Disorder, and personality disorders. My approach to therapy is client-centered, collaborative, and strength-based. You will sense my warmth, passion for my work, and feel seen and heard. I consider it a privilege to come alongside you and support people as they navigate life's many challenges and joys. I believe that each of us has the inner strength necessary to grow and heal and value the work with clients to find and utilize these strengths.
I earned my Masters Degree from New York University in New York City, and worked many years there in a community mental health clinic providing therapy to underserved populations. I have worked in California for many years now, based out of a rural community, where I can find calm and healing in the quiet and trees.
People find me to be compassionate and down to earth, but also able to provide practical skills and interventions. I am skilled in the use of many therapeutic interventions including Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR, psychodynamic interventions, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness and meditation. I am very comfortable working with significant trauma histories and am allied with the LBGTQ community.
I look forward to hearing more of your story and working with you!
Additional areas of focus: Addictions, LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Anger management, Self esteem, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, Abandonment, Codependency, Emptiness, Family Problems, Forgiveness, Guilt and shame, Impulsivity, Isolation / loneliness, Mood disorders , Paranoia, Personality Disorders, Post-traumatic stress, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Self-Harm, Self-love, Sexual Assault and Abuse, Women's issues, Young Adult Issues
Clinical approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Therapy
CA LPCC 3363
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Melanie Fikse. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
She is very wonderful that creating open space to discuss and explain what is going on. She is receptive and tries to make sure that she understands what is going on before providing advice. I have only met with her a couple times so far, and I feel like I am in a good place with her.
Written on Apr 24, 2024 after therapy with Melanie for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, career difficulties, and coping with life changes
Melanie is patient, understanding, dedicated, smart and helpful.
Written on Mar 01, 2024 after therapy with Melanie for 2 months on issues concerning relationship issues, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, and compassion fatigue
I felt in the little time I have begun therapy, I have learned more about myself and I’m excited to continue.
Written on Jan 22, 2024 after therapy with Melanie for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, and anger management
Melanie Fikse has been a great help for me. She asks questions to better understand my needs, and I get feedback daily. I'm getting along with my wife much better and am optimistic about our future.
Written on Dec 27, 2023 after therapy with Melanie for 2 weeks on issues concerning adhd
Melanie has given me the support I need to take steps to better myself. She is empathetic, patient, non-judge mental, and wise. I appreciate my time with her every week.
Written on Apr 19, 2021 after therapy with Melanie for 7 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, and adhd
Melanie is a wonderful therapist. I really appreciate her coaching and guidance.
Written on Apr 13, 2021 after therapy with Melanie for 11 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, self esteem, career difficulties, coaching, and compassion fatigue