My name is Melida and I am a lifelong New Yorker who grew up in the Manhattan neighborhood of Washington Heights. I studied Psychology at The College of Mount Saint Vincent, where I earned my undergraduate degree. I went on to study Marriage and Family Therapy at Mercy College. I am also trained in Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy.

I have worked in Foster Care as well as in home-based and outpatient mental healthcare. I have experience working with adults, children & teens, individuals and families involved in the criminal justice system, as well as undocumented immigrants. I am planning to research and gain further insight into the effects of cannabis on daily functioning and its correlation with mood and behavioral changes, specifically in individuals suffering from depression and anxiety.

My clinical and therapeutic style can be best described as a relational therapist, using modalities such as Narrative Therapy, client-centered therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help individuals work towards cultivating autonomy, self-confidence, and healthier relationships. I value the power of storytelling and drawing unique strengths that will help navigate through the course of life. As a therapist, I work with individuals to gain understanding that past negative experiences do not determine future successes. I also provide mind-body based techniques to support holistic healing. I believe that time wasted is time lost, which drives my motivation to help people make the most of each moment.

I am a fully bilingual speaker of English and Spanish and identify as an Afro-Latina of Dominican descent. I proudly support the LGBTQ communities. To prioritize my mental health and self-care, I participate in salsa dancing, watching basketball, and playing Parcheesi. I enjoy spending time with loved ones as well as traveling.

I give back to the community by being a voice/advocate for the youth involved in the criminal justice system. I also makes a point to participate in walks and events that cater to breast cancer awareness and systems of oppression involving women.