Melissa Layman is a clinical social worker and therapist who holds an MSW and LSWAIC. She is a strong advocate for the importance of the therapeutic relationship in achieving meaningful benefits from psychotherapy. Creating an environment where clients feel safe, validated, and heard is fundamental to her practice. With a focus on building trust, she ensures a supportive and open atmosphere, which serves as a solid foundation for clients to begin unpacking and addressing their challenges. Melissa’s person-centered approach aims to meet individuals where they are, offering intuitive support tailored to their unique experiences. She draws from a diverse range of therapeutic perspectives, including narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, prolonged exposure, and dialectical behavioral therapy. Additionally, her inclination towards systems theory, viewed through a humanistic lens, allows her to remain mindful of intersecting identities and the complexities of each client’s environment and experiences. She acknowledges that finding the right therapist can take time, and encourages individuals to explore various profiles to discover someone they feel comfortable with. As a dedicated therapist, Melissa aims to help clients regain balance, making life feel more manageable and enriching their overall well-being.