Melanie Giarratano

LMHC, LCMHC

New York

Hope-focused counselor combining science and compassion

Continue with Melanie

At a glance

Credentials

LMHC, LCMHC

License

LMHC, New York / 009995; LCMHC, Utah / 12912533-6004

NPI

1538793864

Experience

4 years

Languages

English

Location

New York

Details come from information the therapist supplied to BetterHelp. A license can be checked with the state board.

1. • Motivation-focused
   • Practical coping skills
   • Trauma-aware

   About Melanie

   Melanie Giarratano is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who blends clinical knowledge with practical care. She holds a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from SUNY College at Old Westbury and a Bachelor’s in Neuroscience from the University of Delaware. Melanie draws on four years of clinical experience in inpatient psychiatric settings and outpatient care.

   She uses Motivational Interviewing to help people set goals and build momentum toward change. Melanie also employs client-centered methods to offer support when someone is ready for encouragement. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is part of her approach for clients who want to examine how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact.

   Her background includes work with adults, teenagers, children, veterans, people who use substances, and individuals with developmental disabilities. Melanie has led both group and individual therapy and has experience in settings that treat severe trauma. Her undergraduate research into stress and fear responses informs how she understands trauma reactions.

   Melanie values a personalized approach. She adapts methods to each person’s needs and often combines techniques rather than relying on a single model. She emphasizes practical skills, like identifying thinking errors and learning coping strategies, for people willing to try homework and thought tracking.

   Outside of work Melanie practices yoga, rides her bike, spends time with loved ones, and plays with her dog. She encourages clients to include simple self-care habits that boost mood and balance during life changes.

2. How Melanie Uses Approaches in Online Therapy

   Motivational Interviewing focuses on building a person’s own reasons for change. Sessions using this approach gently guide clients to notice goals and decide on next steps. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps people identify unhelpful thinking patterns and try small behavior changes to shift mood and reactions. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes listening and support once a person is ready to work, offering encouragement without judgment.
   
   Deciding which approach to use is a collaborative process. The therapist will talk with the client about goals, preferences, and what has or hasn’t helped before. Together they’ll try methods and adjust the plan if something isn’t working or if needs change over time.
   
   The profile does not list specific session formats, so confirm current options before booking. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy week, allow shorter check-ins when needed, or remove travel time. Licensed professionals often combine practical skill-building, homework like thought logs, and mindfulness exercises into sessions to help clients practice between meetings.

4. Areas of expertise

   Primary focus

   Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression

   Also works with

   Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementBipolar disorderCoping with life changesADHD

   Additional focus areas

   Attachment issuesCommunication problemsDisruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)JealousyMood disordersSelf-loveSocial anxiety and phobiaYoung adult issues

   Therapeutic approaches

   Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)Mindfulness TherapyMotivational InterviewingPsychodynamic TherapySolution-Focused Therapy

   Experience

   4+ years

   Listed in

   New York, Utah

   Languages

   English

5. Frequently asked questions

   What concerns does Melanie often address?

   She works with stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, depression, family concerns, trauma and abuse, parenting strain, anger, bipolar disorder, coping with life changes, and ADHD. Additional focuses include attachment issues, communication problems, DMDD, jealousy, mood disorders, self-love, social anxiety, and young adult issues.

   How would you describe her therapeutic style?

   Her style mixes motivational interviewing, client-centered support, CBT, DBT skills, and mindfulness techniques. She adapts methods to match each person and often combines practical tools with supportive listening.

   What is her clinical background and experience?

   She has four years of clinical experience in inpatient and outpatient settings and has worked with a wide range of people including veterans and those with developmental disabilities. Her undergraduate research on stress and PTSD influences her trauma understanding.

   What credentials and location are listed for this clinician?

   She is listed as LMHC and LCMHC, with licensure tied to New York and Utah, and practices from New York.

   What languages are supported for sessions?

   Sessions are offered in English and international clients are accepted.

   Which session formats are available?

   The original profile does not specify session formats. Please confirm the currently supported session options before booking.

   How is cost handled for sessions?

   Cost varies with location and therapist arrangements; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

   How do I begin working with her?

   Begin by selecting the Start Therapy button, completing a short matching questionnaire, and then scheduling according to the therapist’s availability.

6. Online talk therapy is not emergency or medical care. Stopping or cutting down alcohol or other drugs can be unsafe without medical advice. In immediate danger? Crisis numbers

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