Melissa L. Craven, MA, LPC
The path ahead…
Hi, I’m Melissa.
I am happy to meet you. I know that the idea of therapy and talking with a stranger can be anxiety-provoking in and of itself. However, I believe in the therapeutic process and am so grateful to do what I do.
In high school, I learned the benefit of therapy, and I decided that I wanted to spend my life creating space for others to work through trauma, process loss, and face challenges like Ms. Barbara did for me.
The relationship between a therapist and a Client is tantamount to healing and for you to find peace and clarity.
Courageous step…
The decision to join in a therapeutic relationship takes courage. So, I would like to commend you for taking a step toward healing. It’s a privilege to meet you where you are and hold space for you as you rediscover or recreate your path forward. I won’t tell you it will be easy, but I will tell you it is worth it.
As we get to work, you may experience various emotions, and that is ok and important in helping you move through whatever is holding you back. However, the real work will be up to you when we aren’t together. For real change to occur, you’ll need to take whatever you learn in session and apply it to your daily life and those moments in between.
Just an ear…
If it’s on your mind, then it’s important. You don’t have to be facing a major loss or dealing with significant trauma to benefit from therapy. Sometimes you just need someone to talk to as you weigh a decision or grapple with a circumstance. Change is constant. You may be changing careers or changing environments. Wherever you are, I will meet you there.
So, my question for you is…
How would you like your life to be different?
Together we’ll go…
My approach is collaborative, and it is my honor to walk alongside you on your journey within. I don’t have an agenda, and I won’t push you. I will respect your boundaries; however, I will challenge you to grow and develop. I won’t tell you what to do, but I will listen to you as you embrace your own voice.
With my training and experience, I will bring my skills and observations to the conversation, but I will need to hear from you about what works and what doesn’t.
My goal is to support you in your growth as you unearth the possibilities within. I will always look to build on your strengths, and you can expect me to incorporate positivity and humor as we work together. Throughout my career, I have noticed that it is generally easier for clients to point out their “weaknesses” and rarely their strengths. One of my greatest joys is helping Clients uncover their strengths and embrace their whole self.
My credentials and experience…
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in South Carolina (#5800) and Georgia (#012043).
I started my career in 2001, working as an advocate for victims of crime as they navigated the many facets of the criminal justice system. I have led many different groups – from former inmates, helping them to address their negative thinking patterns and adjust to life outside of prison… to those struggling with addiction and anger. I have worked with victims of domestic violence in preparation for court and processing trauma. I have experience working with children and families in the context of abuse and neglect. I have experience working with civilian and military individuals, couples, and families in a state of crisis.