- CBT techniques
- Mindfulness practice
- Trauma-informed work
About Melissa
Melissa Newsom is an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) with three years of clinical experience based in Kentucky. She works with people facing stress, anxiety, relationship strain, trauma and abuse, low self-esteem, and depression, including concerns such as panic attacks, OCD symptoms, and social anxiety and phobia.
She focuses on listening first and helping clients name what feels most urgent. Sessions tend to be straightforward conversations that look at current struggles and what makes them worse or better. Melissa uses practical tools and clear feedback so people can try new ways of coping between meetings.
Her approach often draws on client-centered methods that prioritize the person’s own goals. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques are used to identify unhelpful thoughts and small behavior changes that reduce anxiety. Mindfulness practices are introduced to help with stress and grounding when emotions feel overwhelming.
When past trauma is part of the picture, she integrates trauma-focused ideas to reduce symptoms and improve daily functioning. Motivational Interviewing helps when someone feels stuck and wants to build motivation for change.
Sessions emphasize collaboration and small, manageable steps. Melissa explains options and helps people decide which strategies to try first. The focus is on concrete progress that fits the client’s life and pace.
How Melissa’s approaches translate to online sessions
Melissa commonly uses Client-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in her work. Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening and following the client's goals, which helps clarify what matters most in daily life. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy looks at thought patterns and small behavior changes to reduce anxiety and improve mood.Finding the right approach is collaborative. Melissa will talk with the client about goals, try strategies, and adjust methods based on what helps. That means testing tools together and changing direction when something isn’t working.
Practical online benefits include fitting sessions into a busy schedule and reducing travel time so appointments are easier to keep. Some formats may allow shorter check-ins or sessions without video when that better suits the person’s needs. Confirm the specific session options before booking so the chosen format fits daily life and technology needs.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
3+ years
Listed in
Kentucky
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does she help with?
She works with stress, anxiety, relationship worries, trauma and abuse, self-esteem issues, and depression, including panic, OCD symptoms, and social anxiety and phobia.
What is her general approach in sessions?
Sessions are conversational and practical, focusing on listening, identifying immediate problems, and trying tools that can be used between meetings.
How much clinical experience does she have?
She has three years of experience as a practicing LCSW in clinical settings.
What are her credentials and location?
She is an LCSW licensed in Kentucky and practices with that credential.
Which languages are supported and are international clients accepted?
Sessions are offered in English and international clients are not currently accepted.
What session formats are available?
Please confirm current session options before booking, as specific formats are not listed in the profile.
How is cost handled?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin the process?
Click the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.