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The natural unfolding of one's life is truly divine.

About Me

Since I was very young, I found myself most happy when I was able to support or help another. I was always involved in helping or teaching children, which launched me into the direction of teaching. I graduated from University of Michigan with an Elementary Teaching Credential, which allowed me to take my first position teaching on the beautiful island of Oahu, HI. There, I experienced a very transformative healing journey that created the pathway for me to pursue the field of counseling psychology. Through my work with children struggling with a degree of problems ranging from the emotional to family problems I found such purpose in the individual moments of support. After three years of teaching, I left the island to begin a masters program at Pacifica Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara, CA. There I graduated with my degree of counseling psychology with an emphasis on depth psychology. For over six years now, I have enjoyed practicing as a Marriage and Family Therapist, and know that this work is one of my biggest passions, and purpose on this Earth. Thank you for visiting my page and hope to meet you too!

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Melissa Axell, MA, LMFT

I have had years of experience working with individuals, young adults, children, and adolescents. I find that the pain or suffering in one's journey can be used as ones greatest teacher. Some of the subjects that I have spent time working with are grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety, depression, self esteem, identity issues, developing coping strategies, creating healthy relationships, and making meaning in one's life. I welcome the artist in everyone to explore and to help gain a deeper sense of one's self whether that be through images, dreams, metaphor, and other artistic expressions.

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Steve Maraboli

"The most powerful relationship you will ever have is the relationship with yourself."

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A Bit About Therapy

If you are thinking about therapy chances are you are searching for something. Maybe you have never had a chance to really unpack your story, or feel that you need a space to sort out the challenges of your life? Whatever the reason, therapy is a place of support that opens up a platform to develop a deeper sense of self, explore the things that have hurt us in our past, and create meaning for a healthier you. May you begin this journey of understanding, healing and growth with grace and love.

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Family Fun
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Family Time
Graduation
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With You Every Step of the Way

Services Offered

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Here For You

Family Therapy

Working with the entire family to promote and enhance better communication and understanding.

Family at a Beach

Supporting Growth

Couples Therapy

What ever brings you and your loved one in, it will only benefit in creating a safe place to discuss issues, support healthy communication,  and foster better understanding. I have experience working with LGBT couples and multicultural populations.

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Building Foundations

Children/Teens

I have years of experience working with children and teens. Please email me to find more information on how I can help your child.

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A Happier, Healthier You

Individual Therapy

In my individual work, one can find support with any of their personal challenges that they are being faced with. Exploring who they are, from the relationships they have grown from or are entering, one can begin to make sense of their journey and experiences.

Explorer

Skype/Video Counseling

Teletherapy

In this day and age, sometimes meeting in person can be a challenge. I offer Skype/video counseling. Contact me to find out if teletherapy is for you.

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Contact

Contact Me

I am very passionate about the work I do, and look forward to connecting with you. Contact me today to learn more and book a session.

805.633.0937

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