About Melissa Bolivar
Focus areas
Anxiety
LGBTQ+ Counseling
Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Psychotherapy
Depression
Sleep Problems
Clientele seen
Young adults (18-24)
Individuals
Adults (25-64)
Seniors (65+)
Treatment approaches
Culturally Sensitive
Compassion Focused
Relational
Identity
Gender
FemaleLanguages spoken
English
Getting to know Melissa Bolivar
The human mind is a fascinating place. I am constantly in awe of how deeply intricate and nuanced it is. I know that for many of us, it doesn’t always feel this way. The hardships of life can, over time, make the mind an unpleasant, stressful, and even terrifying place. My goal is to help make therapy, and the journey of exploring and understanding your mind, a less daunting process. With a Master’s in Social Work from the University of California, Los Angeles, I want to join you and guide you in peeling back the layers, making sense of the chaos, and finding safety and peace in your mind.
What should a new client know about working with you?
For me, the key ingredient to effective therapy is curiosity. I want you to not only feel that I am listening to you, but that I am interested in what you have to say. I work to create a therapeutic environment where you feel that we are working collaboratively to understand the difficulties in your life, and to identify what you need to feel more capable and fulfilled. My style of therapy focuses on accessing and exploring the wisdom that already exists in your mind and nervous system, and interpreting it in the context of your past and present experiences.
What is your typical process for working with clients?
Nothing is more important in the therapy process than the relationship between therapist and client. Little can be accomplished in terms of exploring and understanding your mind unless you feel some degree of trust and safety with your therapist. I understand that trust needs to be earned, and that a sense of safety takes time to develop. I strive to nurture these by prioritizing consistency and honesty in all of our interactions. I want you to know and feel, above all, that I am on your side, and to have a clear understanding of the work we are doing together.
Out-of-pocket fees and assistance
Initial session: $125 for 60 minutes
Ongoing session: $125 for 60 minutes
- Files your insurance claim: You pay the session fee upfront and the provider files the claim for you, so you can get reimbursed directly without worrying about the paperwork
- Charges post-reimbursement amount: This provider will only charge you for the amount you pay after you get reimbursed from your insurance plan, so you don’t need to pay the session fee upfront
More information on payments and coverage
I also accept EAP through Cigna and Optum.
Education and background
Education and training
- University of California, Los Angeles, Master's in Social Work
Provider's gender
Female
NPI number
1982154118