Hello,
My name is Melanie Dekkers (she/her), and I am a fully licensed social worker with a Masters in Social Work from the University of Montana. Since 2013, I have been privileged to work alongside children, teens, and adults as a social worker and therapist. My experience includes grief counseling, hospice, mood disorders, trauma and Trauma, behavioral challenges, juvenile justice, gender-affirming support, and life transitions for all ages.
Therapy is a great way to learn more about oneself for positive growth and to address challenges. I use a variety of evidence-based models, including Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Care, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and body-based/physically active therapeutic techniques. The focus is always on promoting positive self-image and fostering personal development for individual, couple, and/or family goals.
I am committed to ensuring all feel safe and comfortable in therapy, and provide LGBTQ2SIA+ affirming support. Establishing a safe and trusting relationship is paramount in the therapeutic process for all.
I love working with youth in particular for play therapy, body-based/physically active therapy, and teaching skills for coping with life’s challenges. I especially enjoy working with youth labeled as “behaviorally challenged” or “strong-willed,” and helping caregivers find positive ways to harness the determination of their child. I firmly believe there is no such thing as a “bad kid.”
My therapeutic approach is customized, and every client receives individualized attention, interventions, and activities to fit their respective personalities and reasons for seeking therapy.