Melissa Martinez

Melissa earned a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Behavioral Science from the University of Arizona Global Campus in 2018 and is pursuing a master’s degree in clinical mental health from Liberty University. She is also a member of Chi Sigma Iota and Magna Cum Laude. Melissa’s background is shaped by her 12 years of residency in Georgia, where she lives with her husband of 19 years and their daughter. Prior to relocating to Georgia, she and her family experienced the unique challenges of military life, as her husband served in the United States Army for 11 years. Through these experiences, Melissa has developed a deep understanding of how adversity impacts families, and the vital role community support plays in helping families navigate life's many challenges. Raised in New York City, Melissa was immersed in a vibrant, diverse environment that taught her the importance of cultural awareness and respect. This exposure to a variety of cultures has helped her to remain open-minded, non-judgmental, and attuned to the diverse backgrounds of those she serves. She is committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space for her clients. She believes that the therapeutic alliance between counselor and client is crucial for healing, and she strives to ensure that each client feels heard, respected, and supported throughout their counseling journey. Melissa is currently under the supervision of Cristina Lorenz-Hansen as she continues to grow in her professional counseling career.