Melissa Alvino, LMHC, NCC, PMH-C

Melissa has been described by many as relatable and caring. She is a practice owner whose passion is evident in her therapeutic and supervisory practices. She works from a person-centered, strength-based perspective where she focuses on her clients' values, unique qualities, and abilities in order to empower her clients to make the changes they desire in life. Melissa invests in her clients and staff to ensure optimal outcomes. 

Melissa provides integrative therapy.  She utilizes differing strategies derived from various evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solution Focused.  Melissa emphasizes the importance of nurturing the therapeutic relationship.  She is known to provide a comfortable, safe, and nonjudgmental space for her clients and staff.  Melissa is also trained in Perinatal Mental Health treatment and is currently a Certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional.  She loves working with expecting and new parents, providing support and guidance through such a sensitive and transformative time.

When asked what fuels her passion as a therapist, Melissa says:

"I knew that I wanted to be a therapist by the time I was 11 years old. I was always interested in the human mind, our behavior, our relationships, and what it is to be in this experience of life. This intrigue has become a growing passion as I am welcomed into the lives of my clients with the ability to foster growth and healing. Throughout my career, I have worked with many different people, from teens in residential settings to adults living with severe mental illness. In my personal and clinical experiences, I have come to appreciate the healing power of connection, which is a pivotal tool I utilize in my treatment with my clients. I have been trained in CBT, DBT, and solution-focused treatments. I incorporate these evidenced-based interventions along with practical, everyday tips into my person-centered approach. When my clients sit with me, we make space to process, and we plan for change."

Melissa received her Bachelor's degree at the University of Massachusetts in Boston.  Thereafter, she completed her graduate degree at the Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology and obtained her Master's in Counseling Psychology in 2014.  Melissa has been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of New York since 2017.  She is also a National Board Certified Counselor.  As Melissa enters her tenth year practicing mental health counseling, she has discovered a growing passion in supporting new professionals entering the field.  She has had several years of experience in supervisory roles, including assisting other professionals in obtaining their licenses as well as guiding colleagues in their pursuits of private practice.

Melissa was born and raised on Long Island, where she currently resides with her family.  As a mother of two, she is usually spending time playing with her baby or spending quality time with her toddler.  She loves to take her children out to experience fun activities as a family.  Melissa enjoys cooking, gardening, traveling, reading, riding her Peleton, taking nature walks, going to the beach, and candle making.  She values traveling, learning, and trying new experiences.