IT’S So Nice to meet yoU
Hello! I'm Melinda, and my pronouns are she/her/ella…
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), and a Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT). I am passionate about providing quality, affordable mental healthcare for ALL individuals. As a certified Rainbow Advocate Clinical Specialist (RACS), I specialize in inclusive and affirming approaches for marginalized populations, including the LGBTQIA2+ community. Currently, I am writing my case study for my PsyD Doctorate Degree, focusing on Sex & Love Addiction at Meridian University. I am also a volunteer clinician at Axis Mundi Center for Mental Health, a nonprofit organization.
My ethnic heritage and personality…
I am a mixed-Indigenous cisgender woman on a journey to reconnect with my Mesoamerican heritage. I am also a first-generation Mexican-American, influenced by my father, who immigrated from Torreón, Mexico, at eight with my grandparents. They settled in The Mission District of San Francisco, CA. My great-grandmother, on my father's side, descends from the Huichol Indigenous tribe of Mexico. On my mother's side, my Mexican American roots are from Hatch, New Mexico, going back four generations to around 1900 when New Mexico was still part of Mexico. My maternal great-grandmother was full-blooded Mescalero Apache.
My personality style is a ‘Type 7 - The Enthusiast’ on the Enneagram chart (Yessss!!!). I’m also aligned with the ENFP personality type in the Myers-Briggs framework. My astrological chart includes a Capricorn Sun, Cancer Moon, and Scorpio Rising. I hope these traits, along with the classic characteristics of being a 'Gen X' latchkey kid from the 1970s and 1980s, give you a playful glimpse of who I am before we meet!
Personal Journey…
Like many, my journey began without a clear understanding of self-awareness, held back by deeply ingrained beliefs that kept me stuck in pain. I empathize with the profound disconnection between self and others that can exist when first embarking on the healing journey. However, as I moved through the varying stages of transformation, I unearthed the profound power and significance of authentic connection—achieved only through unwavering honesty, vulnerability, and kindness. Since then, prioritizing my need for healthy connections with myself and others has driven my purpose to live as a healthy adult and qualified therapist to help others connect to themselves and others fearlessly. I can confidently say that if you feel hopeless and are suffering, know that your pain will be relieved, and you will feel better; this process begins once acceptance and action are in sync. I am so happy you are making efforts right now, in this moment, to make a difference in your life!
My therapeutic style and theory…
My primary approach to psychotherapy is rooted in genuine empathy and creating a safe, secure space. Through this method, clients can learn to consciously choose healthy thoughts and behaviors, leading to a profound transformation in expressing their innermost truths. Once a foundation of safety and trust is established, vulnerability and authenticity naturally emerge, allowing for deeper therapeutic work.
For couples on this journey, my approach emphasizes the balance of unity and individuality as a way to strengthen their partnership. Each partner is encouraged to identify their needs, set personal boundaries that align with their highest self, and honor the sacred boundaries of their partner. Together, they learn new ways to care for and protect their most important sacred agreement—their relationship.
Above all, what I want you to know about me is this…
I already think YOU MATTER, and it’s an honor to hear your story and witness you shine.
Welcome Home!