Melanie Fikse, LPCC

Melanie Fikse is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California with 12 years of experience working with adults. She focuses on stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief, mood disorders such as bipolar and depression, addictions, and anger. Melanie also addresses relationship and family concerns, self-esteem, coping with life changes, and issues like compassion fatigue and isolation.

Her approach centers on the person in front of her. She uses client-centered techniques that emphasize collaboration and practical skills. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are part of how she helps people notice patterns and try new responses.

Melanie draws on trauma-focused methods when someone has a history of abuse or post-traumatic stress. That work includes building coping skills, managing intense emotions, and pacing steps so people feel more grounded. She also supports people dealing with guilt, shame, emptiness, impulsivity, and codependency questions.

Her background includes a master’s degree from New York University and many years providing therapy in community mental health settings. She has worked in California in more rural settings and with underserved populations earlier in her career. Those experiences shape a practical style that balances skills practice with longer-term reflection.

Practical work in sessions can include learning tools from CBT, values-based action from ACT, and stabilizing strategies for strong emotions. People who come because they want to handle anger, reduce snap reactions, or ease constant frustration will find a steady, skills-focused approach.

How her therapeutic approaches work in online sessions