Melissa Barragan-Cruz

Melissa earned a bachelor's degree in Education from Boston University. She then earned a master's degree in Educational Psychology from Marist University, which inspired her to consider a career in teaching. After working in clinical research administration for several years at NYU Langone Health, Melissa earned a second master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from New York University. She is a bilingual mental health counselor, committed to providing individual psychotherapy to children and adolescents, with a particular focus on serving those living in underserved communities.

She has worked with children and adolescents presenting with a wide range of mental health and neurocognitive concerns, including ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, behavioral disorders, personality disorders, complex trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Her therapeutic approach includes utilizing evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, play therapy, integrated with a person-centered approach. Melissa believes that a humanistic approach not only empowers the client, but also creates a safe and supportive space where they can process complex emotions without judgment.