Melissa Geiger-Dugandzic

LISW

Ohio

Compassionate support for motivated change

Continue with Melissa

At a glance

Credentials

LISW

License

LISW, Ohio / I.2304951-SUPV

NPI

1427513423

Experience

8 years

Languages

English

Location

Ohio

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

1. • Motivational interviewing
   • Trauma-informed care
   • Practical coping skills

   About Melissa

   Melissa Geiger-Dugandzic is a licensed independent social worker (LISW) practicing in Ohio. She has eight years of professional experience helping adults manage stress, anxiety, addiction, and trauma. Melissa aims to meet people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion as they take steps toward change.

   She focuses on practical conversations that address motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. Sessions are shaped around each person’s needs, so the plan is adjusted as progress is made. Melissa has worked with first responders, veterans, and adults experiencing gambling and substance issues.

   The approach is collaborative and straightforward. Melissa uses Motivational Interviewing to help people find their own reasons for change. She also draws on client-centered methods to keep the work grounded in the person’s goals and experience.

   Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques are used to spot and shift unhelpful thinking and behavior. For clients with intense emotional distress or patterns of impulsivity, Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills may be introduced to improve emotion regulation and coping. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is listed among the approaches she uses for trauma work.

   Melissa tailors the pace and tools to fit each situation. She encourages small, practical steps and checks in on what’s working. The tone in sessions is supportive and goal-focused, aimed at helping people build a more manageable day-to-day life.

2. How Melissa’s approaches translate to online work

   Melissa uses Motivational Interviewing to help people clarify what matters to them and build their own reasons for change. This approach focuses on asking open questions, listening, and guiding toward practical next steps. Client-Centered Therapy keeps the conversation grounded in the person’s perspective and priorities, emphasizing respect and responsiveness to what each person brings.
   
   Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used to identify unhelpful thoughts and patterns, then practice new ways of thinking and acting. CBT tools can be shared during sessions and practiced between meetings to make everyday life feel more manageable.
   
   Finding the right approach is part of the work. Melissa will collaborate with each person to decide which methods fit their needs and goals. That decision is revisited as progress is made so the plan stays useful and realistic.
   
   The original biography does not list specific online formats, so confirm available session options before booking. In general, online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy day, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and reduce travel time. Talk with the therapist about what will work best for scheduling, comfort with video, and the kinds of tools you want to use during sessions.

4. Areas of expertise

   Primary focus

   Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression

   Also works with

   LGBTGriefAnger managementBipolar disorder

   Additional focus areas

   CodependencyControl issuesDissociationDrug and alcohol addictionFirst responder issuesGuilt and shameImpulsivityIsolation / lonelinessVeteran and Armed Forces IssuesMoney and financial issuesMood disordersObsessions, compulsions, and OCDPost-traumatic stressSelf-harmSelf-loveSex addictionSexual assault and abuseSocial anxiety and phobia

   Therapeutic approaches

   Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)Mindfulness TherapyMotivational InterviewingSolution-Focused TherapyTrauma-Focused Therapy

   Experience

   8+ years

   Listed in

   Ohio

   Languages

   English

5. Frequently asked questions

   What concerns does Melissa commonly address?

   She helps people with stress, anxiety, addiction, trauma and abuse, depression, bipolar mood issues, and problems with self-esteem. Additional focuses include codependency, impulse control, grief, and military or first responder stress.

   How would you describe her therapy style?

   Sessions are collaborative and person-centered. She uses straightforward conversation, motivation-focused work, and practical skill-building to help clients move toward their goals.

   What kind of experience does she bring?

   Melissa has eight years of professional experience working with adults on addiction, gambling issues, trauma, and day-to-day stress and anxiety.

   What are her credentials and where does she practice?

   She holds an LISW credential and practices in Ohio.

   Can sessions be conducted in other languages or internationally?

   Sessions are offered in English. She is not accepting international clients.

   What session formats are available?

   The original biography does not list specific session formats. Confirm current session options before booking to know how sessions are offered.

   How is cost handled for sessions?

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

   What are the first steps to begin working together?

   Choose the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to therapist 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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