Melanie Castellari, LMFT

As a licensed therapist in California, New Mexico, and Virginia, I bring over 16 years of experience working with couples, individuals, and families. This diverse background has given me the opportunity to support clients across various stages of life and cultural contexts. My approach is rooted in understanding each client’s unique story, helping them navigate life’s complexities with greater clarity and resilience.

Welcome to Our Practice

Life can present challenges that leave us feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected. At our practice, we believe in providing a safe, supportive space to help you explore your concerns, heal, and grow. Our team of therapists specializes in a variety of areas, including couples counseling, family dynamics, child and adolescent therapy, somatic work, and navigating current political and social issues that may impact mental health and values. We’re here to meet you where you are, offering compassionate care tailored to your unique needs.

A Personalized, Eclectic Approach

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting, but it’s also an act of courage and self-care. My personal approach to mental health is eclectic, which means I draw from a variety of therapeutic methods to find what works best for each individual or couple. Whether you're seeking help for personal growth, relationship challenges, or navigating life transitions, I aim to meet you in your current reality with empathy and respect.

Grounded in empathetic listening and guided support, my goal is to empower clients to navigate life’s complexities with less distress and greater fulfillment. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I strive to create a partnership where you feel heard, understood, and supported in your journey toward greater self-awareness and well-being.

Specializing in Couples Therapy

Relationships are at the heart of human experience, and they can also be a source of profound joy and deep challenges. My specialization in couples therapy focuses on enhancing intimacy, improving communication, and fostering a deeper emotional connection. Many couples struggle to express their needs, resolve conflicts, or rekindle passion after years together. Through evidence-based approaches, such as emotionally focused therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method, I help couples uncover underlying patterns, rebuild trust, and create a more fulfilling partnership.

A central part of my work with couples is addressing intimacy and sexual concerns. Sexual health and satisfaction are important components of a thriving relationship, yet they’re often difficult to discuss. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where couples can openly explore these sensitive topics and work toward greater connection and fulfillment.

Support Beyond Relationships

While relationships are a significant focus of my work, my practice extends far beyond couples counseling. I am equally passionate about supporting individuals in their personal growth and healing. Whether you’re seeking help with managing anxiety, depression, or stress, addressing past trauma, or building healthier habits, I am here to guide you through the process.

My work also includes behavior management and crisis intervention, helping clients navigate difficult situations with greater resilience and clarity. Life’s challenges can be overwhelming, but with the right tools and support, it’s possible to regain a sense of control and move forward with confidence.

Creating a Safe, Nurturing Environment

At the core of my practice is a commitment to providing a nurturing and judgment-free environment where clients feel safe to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Therapy is most effective when built on a foundation of trust, and I prioritize creating a space where clients feel comfortable being their authentic selves.

Each client’s journey is unique, and I approach therapy with openness and flexibility, adapting to the needs and goals of the individual or couple. Whether you’re coming to therapy for the first time or returning after a break, I am here to support you every step of the way.

Taking the First Step

Deciding to seek therapy is an act of bravery, and I commend you for considering this step toward healing and growth. My hope is to make the process as accessible and supportive as possible. Our practice offers a sliding scale, accepts most insurance plans, and is committed to working with clients to address financial concerns so that therapy remains within reach.

If you’re ready to begin your journey toward greater well-being, fulfillment, and connection, I encourage you to schedule a session. Together, we can explore your concerns, set meaningful goals, and work toward creating the life and relationships you desire.
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting, but it’s also an act of courage and self-care. My personal approach to mental health is eclectic, which means I draw from a variety of therapeutic methods to find what works best for each individual or couple. Whether you're seeking help for personal growth, relationship challenges, or navigating life transitions, I aim to meet you in your current reality with empathy and respect.

Grounded in empathetic listening and guided support, my goal is to empower clients to navigate life’s complexities with less distress and greater fulfillment. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I strive to create a partnership where you feel heard, understood, and supported in your journey toward greater self-awareness and well-being.

Specializing in Couples Therapy

Relationships are at the heart of human experience, and they can also be a source of profound joy and deep challenges. My specialization in couples therapy focuses on enhancing intimacy, improving communication, and fostering a deeper emotional connection. Many couples struggle to express their needs, resolve conflicts, or rekindle passion after years together. Through evidence-based approaches, such as emotionally focused therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method, I help couples uncover underlying patterns, rebuild trust, and create a more fulfilling partnership.

A central part of my work with couples is addressing intimacy and sexual concerns. Sexual health and satisfaction are important components of a thriving relationship, yet they’re often difficult to discuss. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where couples can openly explore these sensitive topics and work toward greater connection and fulfillment.

Support Beyond Relationships

While relationships are a significant focus of my work, my practice extends far beyond couples counseling. I am equally passionate about supporting individuals in their personal growth and healing. Whether you’re seeking help with managing anxiety, depression, or stress, addressing past trauma, or building healthier habits, I am here to guide you through the process.

My work also includes behavior management and crisis intervention, helping clients navigate difficult situations with greater resilience and clarity. Life’s challenges can be overwhelming, but with the right tools and support, it’s possible to regain a sense of control and move forward with confidence.

Creating a Safe, Nurturing Environment

At the core of my practice is a commitment to providing a nurturing and judgment-free environment where clients feel safe to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Therapy is most effective when built on a foundation of trust, and I prioritize creating a space where clients feel comfortable being their authentic selves.

Each client’s journey is unique, and I approach therapy with openness and flexibility, adapting to the needs and goals of the individual or couple. Whether you’re coming to therapy for the first time or returning after a break, I am here to support you every step of the way.

Taking the First Step

Deciding to seek therapy is an act of bravery, and I commend you for considering this step toward healing and growth. My hope is to make the process as accessible and supportive as possible. Our practice offers a sliding scale, accepts most insurance plans, and is committed to working with clients to address financial concerns so that therapy remains within reach.

If you’re ready to begin your journey toward greater well-being, fulfillment, and connection, I encourage you to schedule a session. Together, we can explore your concerns, set meaningful goals, and work toward creating the life and relationships you desire.