About Melissa Backus
Focus areas
Anxiety
Relationship Struggles
Stress Management
Clientele seen
Children (<13)
Adults (25-64)
Teenagers (13-17)
Groups
Young adults (18-24)
Families
Treatment approaches
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Trauma Focused
Dialectical (DBT)
Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)
Identity
Gender
FemaleEthnicity
White
Languages spoken
English
Getting to know Melissa Backus
When dealing with life’s difficult situations, it’s okay to feel lost and alone. When things get tough, we process trauma in different ways, and the way we interact with the world around us changes. During these times of stress and difficulty, it’s important to have a safe and supportive environment to heal, reflect, and figure it all out. I can help with that. I focus on fostering stress tolerance and interpersonal effectiveness, creating lifelong support systems that my clients can use again and again. I strive to meet you where you are, acknowledging your situation, validating your emotions, and encouraging you to do the same.
Hello! My name is Melissa, and I work with families struggling through trauma, crises, and intense life situations. For over 15 years, I’ve offered counseling and psychotherapy to children and adolescents with mild to severe mental health conditions. I’ve provided psychoeducation and counseling to families, helping them harmoniously navigate crises together. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from Columbia University, which has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to support my clients effectively.
I approach my sessions with a playful style, and my goal is to help your healing journey be manageable and enjoyable. Together, we will work on finding the balance between acceptance and problem-solving. Do not hesitate to reach out and talk to me today!
What should a new client know about working with you?
I have 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in acute inpatient settings, outpatient community clinics, substance use treatment facilities, and group practices. I have experience as a trauma-informed yoga instructor and is certified in CBT with additional training in DBT and mindfulness-based practices.
Is this doctor in your insurance network?
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In-network insurances
Melissa Backus, LCSW has 200+ in-network plans.
More information on payments and coverage
Payment is due after each session and will be charged with your card on file for any portion of patient responsibility. Receipts will be provided at the time of the charge. This typically takes place 2-4 weeks after the session, once your insurance has had a chance to process the claim. We try our best to verify eligibility, but it is ultimately your responsibility to check coverage and out-of-pocket costs for services. For out-of-network visits, you will be billed at the provider’s self-pay rate, and we can provide an invoice for you to submit to your insurance for potential out-of-network reimbursement based on your plan’s benefits.
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- Columbia University, Master's in Social Work
NPI number
1376727438
How soon can I make an appointment with Melissa Backus?
Generally, Melissa Backus has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Melissa Backus's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Melissa Backus accepting new patients?
Melissa Backus generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Melissa Backus's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Melissa Backus accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Melissa Backus is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Melissa Backus online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Melissa Backus using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Melissa Backus work with?
Melissa Backus works with Grow Therapy.
What are common reasons for patients to see Melissa Backus?
Melissa Backus frequently sees patients for Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, Sleep Problems, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Melissa Backus on their profile.
What languages does Melissa Backus speak?
Melissa Backus speaks English.