Mental Health Counselor Associate in Providence Rhode Island

 


Annelba Melendez, LMHC-A

I am a mental health counselor associate in Rhode Island who works with college students, young adults, and adults navigating life’s challenges and transitions. I provide both in-person and virtual therapy and am especially passionate about supporting young adults as they navigate questions related to identity, relationships, career development, academic stress, and finding their place in the world. I strive to create a warm, affirming, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable showing up as their authentic selves. I am committed to helping clients move toward a life that feels more meaningful and aligned with their values.

As a first-generation Dominican American and first-generation college student, I understand that culture, family expectations, identity, and systems can shape how we experience ourselves and the world around us. I welcome conversations about race, ethnicity, culture, immigration, belonging, intergenerational experiences, and navigating multiple identities. I strive to create a space where clients feel comfortable exploring these aspects of themselves and the ways they intersect with their mental health and overall well-being.

My Background

I earned my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rhode Island College in 2026 and my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Spanish from Clark University in 2023. Throughout my education and clinical training, I have had multiple opportunities to work closely with college students facing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, identity development, relationship challenges, academic stress, and major life transitions. These experiences deepened my appreciation for the unique opportunities and challenges that emerge during young adulthood and reinforced my passion for helping individuals navigate periods of growth and change.

My Approach & Philosophy

I believe that meaningful change occurs when clients feel authentically seen, heard, and understood. My approach is rooted in person-centered and strengths-based principles, with influences from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I view therapy as a collaborative process and strive to meet clients where they are while helping them build on their existing strengths and resilience.

Seeking therapy can feel vulnerable, and finding the right therapist is an important part of the process. My hope is to provide a space where you feel supported, challenged, and empowered as you move toward the life you want to create. Together, we can explore patterns that may no longer be serving you, develop practical coping skills, and work toward creating lasting change.


https://pvdpsych.com/annelba-melendez/


Location: Providence, RI, USA

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