Melissa Madriaga , LPC

Melissa Madriaga is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Wisconsin who focuses on women's issues and related concerns. She uses a straightforward, compassionate style and aims to help people manage stress, anxiety, depression, eating and body image struggles, and other life challenges. Melissa writes plainly and listens carefully to understand each person's situation before setting goals.

Over eight years in counseling work have given her experience with a range of challenges, including addictions, trauma and abuse, anger, relationship and family problems, parenting strain, and coping with life changes. She also helps people facing isolation, grief, guilt and shame, and questions about life purpose. Melissa brings a practical focus to sessions and works with people on specific steps they can take between meetings.

Her training includes a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and professional licensure as an LPC. She previously worked with incarcerated and homeless populations and has experience supporting veterans. Melissa says she values open-minded, nonjudgmental work and has experience with LGBTQ people and underserved communities.

Melissa commonly uses client-centered methods, cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, and narrative approaches during sessions. That means she pays attention to what each person needs, helps identify unhelpful thoughts and habits, and supports practical changes one step at a time.

Outside of work she is a parent and enjoys hiking, biking, travel, and exploring Wisconsin. She aims to create a steady, respectful space where people can find clearer direction and renewed hope.

Therapeutic approaches and online care

Client-centered therapy focuses on the person's own goals and experience. The therapist listens closely, reflects what she hears, and helps people find their own path forward. This approach is useful when someone needs a respectful space to sort out feelings and priorities.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, looks at the link between thoughts, feelings, and actions. Melissa uses CBT techniques to help identify unhelpful thinking patterns and to build new habits that reduce anxiety, depression, or disordered eating behaviors.

Finding the right approach is part of the process. She works together with each person to decide which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences. That collaboration means treatments can change over time as progress is made or new issues emerge.

Online sessions are offered by video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging to make therapy more flexible. Video works well for in-depth conversations and visual cues. Phone sessions are helpful when audio-only contact is easier or bandwidth is limited. Live chat and text are useful for shorter check-ins, homework support, or when someone prefers typing to speaking. These options make it easier to fit counseling into busy schedules and to access support from different locations.