About Melissa Rivera
Clientele seen
Young adults (18-24)
Individuals
Adults (25-64)
Seniors (65+)
Treatment approaches
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Dialectical (DBT)
Identity
Gender
FemaleLanguages spoken
English, Spanish
Getting to know Melissa Rivera
Melissa is a dedicated therapist with two years of experience and holds a Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Long Island University – Hudson Graduate Centers (LIU Hudson). Her passion for therapy stems from her personal experiences as a parent of children with special needs and a caregiver to her mother, who has faced severe depression. These experiences have given her deep insight into the challenges many individuals encounter.
Her journey with therapy, particularly after postpartum depression, was transformative. With professional support, she reconnected with herself and navigated healing, reinforcing her belief that no one should face struggles alone.
At Sara's Haven, Melissa employs a range of therapeutic approaches, specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She also leads group therapy and offers sessions in Spanish. Her training in marriage counseling, along with DBT and CBT expertise, allows her to support a diverse clientele.
Melissa works with individuals, families, and couples across all age groups, guiding those ready to heal. Her experience includes facilitating DBT, CBT, support and educational groups, Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and virtual and teen therapy groups.
Skilled in addressing a wide range of concerns-including anxiety, OCD, depression, personality disorders, and addiction-Melissa is especially passionate about helping families and couples improve communication.
She values the strong professional relationships she maintains with her mentors and is committed to her clients' growth. Each success story is a testament to the collaborative therapeutic process.
Melissa is dedicated to supporting individuals on their healing journeys and looks forward to the opportunity to work with you.
What should a new client know about working with you?
When working with me, clients can expect a compassionate, supportive, and collaborative approach to therapy. My work is deeply influenced by my personal experiences as a parent of children with special needs and a caregiver to a loved one with severe depression. These experiences have given me profound insight into the challenges individuals and families face, reinforcing my belief that no one should navigate their struggles alone.
I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and offer therapy in both English and Spanish. My approach is flexible, incorporating individual, family, and couples counseling, as well as group therapy sessions. I also have specialized training in marriage counseling, allowing me to support clients in strengthening their relationships.
I work with individuals of all ages, guiding them through anxiety, depression, OCD, personality disorders, addiction, and relationship challenges. I find particular fulfillment in helping families and couples improve communication and understanding.
Therapy is a journey, and I am committed to walking alongside my clients, providing the tools and support needed for healing and growth. I look forward to working with you and helping you navigate your path toward wellness.
What is your typical process for working with clients?
My process for working with clients is collaborative, supportive, and tailored to each individual's needs.
1. Initial Consultation & Assessment – Our first sessions focus on understanding your concerns, background, and goals. I take the time to listen and gather insight into your experiences to create a personalized treatment plan.
2. Establishing a Therapeutic Approach – I primarily use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients develop coping strategies, improve emotional regulation, and navigate challenges. I also incorporate techniques from marriage counseling when working with couples.
3. Individualized Support & Flexibility – Whether through one-on-one therapy, family or couples counseling, or group sessions, I adapt my approach to best support your healing journey. I also offer therapy in Spanish for those who prefer it.
4. Ongoing Progress & Adjustment – Therapy is an evolving process, and I regularly assess progress to ensure you are getting the support you need. We will work together to adjust strategies as needed to help you achieve your goals.
5. Encouraging Growth & Independence – My goal is to equip clients with the tools and confidence to navigate life’s challenges beyond therapy. While I provide guidance and support, I also encourage self-awareness and personal growth to foster long-term success.
Healing takes time, but you won’t have to go through it alone. I am here to support you every step of the way.
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Office location
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- Long Island University – Hudson Graduate Centers (LIU Hudson), Master's in Mental Health Counseling
NPI number
1083344139
How soon can I make an appointment with Melissa Rivera?
Generally, Melissa Rivera has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Melissa Rivera's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Melissa Rivera accepting new patients?
Melissa Rivera generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Melissa Rivera's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Melissa Rivera accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Melissa Rivera is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Melissa Rivera online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Melissa Rivera using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Melissa Rivera work with?
Melissa Rivera works with Saras Haven.
Where is Melissa Rivera's office located?
Melissa Rivera's office is located at 240-08 135th Ave, Rosedale, NY 11422.
What are common reasons for patients to see Melissa Rivera?
Melissa Rivera frequently sees patients for New Patient Visit, Pain Management Consultation, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Sleep Problems. You can see other visit reasons for Melissa Rivera on their profile.
What languages does Melissa Rivera speak?
Melissa Rivera speaks English and Spanish.