Melissa de Leon Mason
CSW
I know every person is unique, and life can often be challenging and complex. I genuinely appreciate the courage it takes to seek support and guidance during these times. I'm here to assist you in your journey, to be a listening ear, and to help you process your experiences in a healthy way.
I combine mindfulness with evidence-based practice to help you nurture your personal growth and become the best version of yourself. Relationships, sex, and intimacy are my specialties. I also enjoy working with women and families with concerns about pregnancy, postpartum and maternal mental health. I provide ketamine assisted psychotherapy as well.
Together, we can navigate life's twists and turns. I'm excited to be a part of your journey towards a happier, more fulfilling life. When you're ready, reach out and let's take the first step together.
TREATMENT APPROACH
I approach therapy from a strengths perspective, knowing that every person carries with them valuable knowledge about who they are and the power to make change. I act as a guide and a safe place to be open, to explore, and to discover what is possible for you. I use mindfulness as well as evidence-based practice such as CBT and work to treat you in the way that is best for your unique needs.
SPECIALITIES
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Anxiety
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Couples
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Sexual Concerns
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Religious Trauma
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Gender Roles
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Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
AGE OF SPECIALITY
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Pre-Teens (11-14 yrs old)
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Adolescents (15-17 yrs old)
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Young Adult (18-25 yrs old)
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Adult (25-60 yrs old)
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Seniors (60+ yrs old)
TYPES OF THERAPY
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ACT
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CBT
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Narrative Therapy
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Gottman couples
"Do I contradict myself? Very well then I contradict myself, (I am large, I contain multitudes.)"
----Walt Whitman
KNOW YOUR THERAPIST
WHAT DID YOU GET YOUR DEGREE(S) IN AND WHERE FROM?
B.A. Political Science- University of Notre Dame; MSW in progress, Utah State University
SUMMARY OF PROFESSIONAL HISTORY
I’ve worked in non-profit organizations for two decades providing services for teens, young adults, and families. My first job was running family services at a homeless center in the Midwest. I’ve also worked with first-generation students at a community college, and refugees in Cairo, Egypt. Before starting grad school, I founded a non-profit organization in California helping locally resettled refugees connect with community services.
WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO BECOME A THERAPIST?
My favorite part of my work has always been interacting one on one with clients, getting to know who they are and what they want out of life, then helping them uncover their ability to make that happen.
WHATS YOUR THERAPEUTIC APPROACH?
Throughout my career working with people in the most difficult circumstances, I've been inspired by how unique and complex each individual is and by the strength and resilience buried inside every one of us.
WHAT KIND OF HOMEWORK OR ASSIGNMENTS DO YOU GIVE CLIENTS?
I issue challenges for clients to work on in between sessions. These can be very simple and are tailored to what we’ve been working on together and where you feel comfortable.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY FIRST SESSION WITH YOU?
Just think about where you are and where you want to be and be willing to talk. We can move forward together from there.