Melinna Perez , LMFT

Melinna Perez is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in California with more than 10 years of clinical experience. As an LMFT she brings specialized training in relationship and family systems to work with children, teens, adults, couples, families, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. She earned a Master of Marriage and Family Therapy degree from the University of Southern California (USC) in 2016 and holds bachelor degrees in psychology and English from Mount St. Marys University, completed in 2013.

Her background includes both individual and group therapy across in-office and online formats and in residential and outpatient settings. Over the years she has supported people facing depression, anxiety, eating and food-related issues, body dysmorphia, relationship and parenting challenges, insomnia, addiction, trauma and abuse, bipolar disorder, grief, and many adjustment and growth concerns. Melinna also brings focused experience with issues such as abandonment, adoption and foster care, attachment challenges, autism and Asperger syndrome, gender dysphoria, and diverse intimacy and kinks including BDSM.

Therapeutically she draws from approaches that include client-centered work, cognitive behavioral techniques, acceptance and commitment strategies, dialectical skills, and emotionally focused interventions, adapting methods to each person’s needs. Known for creating a nonjudgmental atmosphere, she meets people where they are and supports their process of self-discovery and healing. Outside of her clinical work she enjoys music, sports, reading, cooking, time with family and pets, meditation, and visits to the beach. She looks forward to meeting and working with people seeking support.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Melinna often integrates client-centered therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) into her online practice. Client-centered therapy focuses on meeting people where they are and offering a supportive, nonjudgmental space so individuals can explore their thoughts and values. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people clarify what matters to them, accept difficult emotions, and take values-guided action to improve well-being. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) identifies and shifts unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns to reduce symptoms like anxiety and depression and to build practical coping skills.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Melinna works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods best fit their goals, preferences, and life circumstances. Together they tailor strategies and adjust the plan as progress unfolds.

Online therapy through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging offers flexibility for busy schedules and for those who prefer remote care. These options make it easier to maintain continuity when life is unpredictable and allow licensed professionals to provide consistent support across different communication styles and needs.