Melisa Uribe Sánchez (she/her)
My name is Melisa and I provide virtual therapy to teens and adults in California. I graduated from California Polytechnic State University with a Master’s degree in Psychology in 2019 and became a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in 2023. I continue to deepen my skills through ongoing professional training and place an emphasis on using nature as a part of the healing process. Grounding yourself in nature can be incorporated as a physical or spiritual experience.
I’ve worked in a variety of settings throughout the years as a therapist. One thing I’ve learned is regardless of the placement or stage you are in life, you can always choose to turn the page and begin making changes to create a life that you want to live- a life that makes you excited to live.
My Approach
I have an eclectic approach to therapy and enjoy working through the lens of CBT, DBT, and Narrative Therapy. I believe everyone has a story and the narrative we tell ourselves shapes how view ourselves and the world around us. I also like to bring in Somatic Therapy when possible, where we bring your awareness to sensations you may be feeling in your body as you process emotions. When we explore uncomfortable subjects, we may start to feel physically uncomfortable. Whether you notice your heart racing, your muscles tensing, or jaw clenching, it’s important to notice the sensations that arise and learn how to regulate the nervous system. Integrating mindfulness techniques can also be helpful to feel more calm and in control during therapy sessions (and in your regular life).
Most importantly, my role as a therapist is one that walks along the path with you. As a person-centered therapist, I believe that you are the expert in your life and hold the key- even when it might not feel like it. I provide space for you to take a moment and reflect on how your values can guide you through difficult situations and life circumstances.
Specialties
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Anxiety can manifest itself in a variety of ways. You might notice you’ve been worrying more often than you used to, experiencing racing thoughts at night that don’t let you fall asleep, or constantly preoccupied with what must get done and endless to-do lists (hello, high functioning anxiety!) In therapy, I bring in somatic interventions to notice how anxiety presents in your body and ways to feel calm and grounded in the present moment. We also explore any unhelpful or distorted thoughts you may be having which contributes to feeling anxious, restless, or overwhelmed.
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Therapy, especially with trauma, will be at your own pace. When you feel ready, safe, and comfortable, we begin trauma work by exploring difficult experiences, processing emotions associated with such memories, and learn new ways of coping and managing trauma-related symptoms. Sometimes it feels like trauma robs our sense of self, self-worth, or capacity to connect with others. Therapy is a way to heal from old wounds, rebuild your confidence, and reclaim your power. You are more than deserving of that.
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As humans, we are constantly changing and evolving; at least during some periods of our lives. These changes can be natural or intentional, such as transitioning into adulthood, graduating from college, starting a new job, moving in with a partner, welcoming a new baby, or moving to a different area. Other transitions are those that life may throw at us, think of changing family dynamics, being laid off, or circumstances that are out of your control. Feeling stuck or frozen can be natural responses to change. Therapy is a space to find your footing in the midst of the chaos and begin making decisions that are rooted with intention and thoughtfulness.
On a More Personal Note
A little about me:
I thrive through meaningful connection & creating time for myself
Currently reading Chilco by Daniela Catrilleo
Forever a cat lover but dogs are a close second
Rainy hikes rewire my brain
I love being a therapist and bringing my authentic self into session to better connect with people- that’s the real magic ✨