Melissa Johnson, MS, NCC

Are you feeling off-balance? Is the chaos of daily life spinning around you – making it impossible to decide and take action? Do you notice yourself ruminating or experiencing intrusive thoughts? Do you tend to overthink the “what-if’s” which diminishes your sense of inner peace?

You are not alone. Therapy with me means that you will experience a safe, open and non-judgmental environment that allows you the opportunity to navigate life’s challenges while finding inner calm and bringing balance back to your life.

In a world that feels out of control, I have a passion for helping individuals recognize and build upon their innate strengths – I have worked as a school counselor for 18 years and have extensive experience supporting children, adolescents, young adults and families.

Pre-Teens: I work with children as young as 10 years old. Through the use of mind-body connection, play, and talk therapy, pre-teens are given the space to express their thoughts, feelings and inner struggles as they relate to anxiety, depression, relationship/family/friendship, school, ADHD, transitions and identity. I firmly believe in creating a judgment-free space in order to develop a solid and trusting therapeutic relationship.

Adolescents: I have been working with middle and high school-age teens for the past 18 years and understand the complex dynamics of this stage in life. I’m here to support teens who find themselves struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, overwhelm, academic and societal pressures, identity, peer/relationship issues, college/career planning and navigating transitions. I use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), strengths-based therapy, solution-focused therapy and mindfulness techniques to encourage and support positive change.

Adults: I work with adults who are dealing with challenges such as anxiety/depression/ADHD, college/work transition/dynamics, self-discovery, parenting, relationship conflicts, stress, and nutritional impacts on mental health. I use a holistic approach, pulling from the tenants of cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness and polyvagal theory.

It is my utmost passion to provide a safe and encouraging space for you to express yourself, navigate roadblocks, and develop tools to overcome life’s challenges. You are so brave in taking this step, and I can’t wait to meet you and start this journey together!

MORE ABOUT ME:

I’m a proud, laid-back Oregonian living in Northern Virginia. When I’m not at work, I enjoy spending time with my family, gluten-free food, focusing on wellness through a holistic lifestyle, moving my body through dance/yoga/barre and binge-watching reality TV.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING:

• Master’s degree in Counseling from Oregon State University
• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology (minor in Fine Arts/Dance) from Western Oregon University
• National Certified Counselor (NCC)
• 18 years experience as a middle and high school counselor in public schools in Oregon and Virginia
• Virginia Pupil Personnel Services License (School Counseling)

SUPERVISED BY:

Jennifer Munroe, LPC, NCC

CREDENTIALS:

Resident in Counseling

PRELICENSE:

VA 0704015782