Hi I’m Melissa (she/her) and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Harlowe Counseling! My passion for therapy stems from a deep desire to create positive change in the lives of individuals and couples. I’m dedicated to providing a safe space where people can learn what healthy communication truly looks like, especially in a world where it’s not always taught. My goal is to help increase emotional expression and understanding because every human deserves to have a voice, to be seen, and to be heard.
Melissa Miranda, LMFT, NCC
For the woman you are — and the one you’re becoming.
I view therapy as a collaborative journey where you are the ultimate expert on yourself and your relationships. My approach is holistic and integrative, although I tend toward Narrative and Systems interventions. We will spend time honoring your unique story and exploring how your background, culture, and relationships shape your world today. We will look at the whole self, untangle thought patterns, and utilize mindfulness and somatic techniques to ensure you feel grounded and connected to both mind and body.
My Approach To Therapy
- Individuals and couples seeking a safe space to process and heal from relational trauma.
- Couples wanting to manage conflict, reconnect, and learn healthy communication patterns across different stages of life.
- Women navigating stressful life transitions and systemic or personal challenges related to womanhood.
- LGBTQ+ individuals and couples navigating unique relationship dynamics and stressors surrounding identity.
- People managing the day-to-day challenges of Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, or trauma-related symptoms.
I love working with:
In a session with me clients can expect a cozy, conversational, and non-judgmental space where they are the expert on their life and I am there to facilitate reflection, offer some tools, and walk alongside them on their healing journey.
Our work is collaborative and holistic; we will often map out the tapestry of the whole lived experience to explore how relationships and past experiences can give insight into who we were, who we are today, and who we would like to be. I strive for a balance of deep reflection, practical tools/education, and somatic awareness in my approach.
What a session with me looks like:
Empathy
I provide a space where clients feel deeply seen, heard, and believed.
My theraputic Values:
Empowerment
I cultivate an environment where clients can safely voice their opinions, experiences, and boundaries, and eventually carry that with them outside of therapy.
Authenticity
I welcome clients to show up authentically, as I do the same, establishing a genuine safety in just being "real" and "human" together.
Connection
I work with clients to build a deeper connection with self, others, and to their purpose.
Acceptance
I strive to help clients begin to accept and be kinder to themselves - flaws and all.
Edge of Glory by Lady Gaga
song that gets YOU going
I will never forget my first time seeing a West Coast sunset.
moment you'll never forget
I have a few comfort tv shows: Bob's Burgers, Spongebob, The Office, or Brooklyn 99.
Comfort tv show
My night in looks like a bubble bath, cozy games on my Switch, and time with my partner.
your night in looks like...
My favorite podcast is "Where Should We Begin" by Esther Perel.
Favorite Podcast
"When you listen attentively to others, even if it's stories that are not yours, you recognize yourself because there's always universal themes-human themes".
- Esther Perel
Words I live by
License & Education
the credentials
University of Central Florida - Master of Arts in Marriage, Couple, and Family Therapy (2021)
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (Florida) MT4973
National Certified Counselor (2021)
Prevention and Relationship Education Program (PREP) 8.0 Certified Facilitator (2021)
We know taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming — that’s why we’ve made it simple. When you schedule your free consultation, you’ll connect directly with Alison, our Practice Admin. She’ll take the time to understand what’s bringing you to therapy, answer your questions, and match you with the therapist best suited to support your needs.
Alison will also walk you through insurance details and next steps so you can feel informed, confident, and cared for from the very start.
