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Office Locations:
Telehealth
Who I Work With
Individual Adults
Couples / Families
Adolescents
Cash Rate -- $250 / Session
Board of Psychology Registration: PSB94028234
Supervisor: Betsy Chung, Psy.d
California License # PSY26045
Board of Psychology Registration: PSB94028234
Supervisor: Betsy Chung, Psy.d
California License # PSY26045
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about Melanie Reims, Psy.D
Psychological Associate
I have been with my husband for 43 years, run at least 6 miles every day, and have 4 children. I am a voracious reader, love listening to music, and enjoy the sound of the ocean and the chill of a light windy day.
As a Doctoral level Psychology Associate, I’ve been seeing clients since March 2024, but prior to pursuing my doctorate in clinical psychology, I’ve had a long history in the helping profession, first as a dental hygienist in 1987, then as a private life coach since 1990.
I specialize in helping clients navigate the messy, often overwhelming parts of being human — major life transitions, grief and loss, identity exploration, trauma, relationship challenges, and feeling stuck or disconnected from oneself. Many of my clients come to me feeling burned out, anxious, emotionally numb, traumatized, or unsure of what they need, but knowing something has to change.
My approach integrates supportive reflection, emotional exploration, and cognitive reframing to help clients gain insight and create meaningful change. Many clients also appreciate structured problem-solving, assistance with boundary-setting, and psychoeducation—especially around life transitions or complex challenges. I help clients distinguish between what they can control (their reactions and choices) and what they cannot (external circumstances), fostering a sense of agency and self-compassion.
I believe each individual is unique so I approach therapy with curiosity and respect for your personal journey. When working with me, you can expect a warm, collaborative space where you are seen as the true expert on your own experiences. I explore and consider everything in context — family systems, cultural background, trauma, and environmental stressors — to fully understand what you’re going through and will work collaboratively with you to understand your unique story so we can build on existing strengths and develop new skills to support growth and healing.
My goal is to help you make sense of what you’re feeling, clarify what you want, and build confidence and tools to move forward in a way that aligns with your values.
As a Doctoral level Psychology Associate, I’ve been seeing clients since March 2024, but prior to pursuing my doctorate in clinical psychology, I’ve had a long history in the helping profession, first as a dental hygienist in 1987, then as a private life coach since 1990.
I specialize in helping clients navigate the messy, often overwhelming parts of being human — major life transitions, grief and loss, identity exploration, trauma, relationship challenges, and feeling stuck or disconnected from oneself. Many of my clients come to me feeling burned out, anxious, emotionally numb, traumatized, or unsure of what they need, but knowing something has to change.
My approach integrates supportive reflection, emotional exploration, and cognitive reframing to help clients gain insight and create meaningful change. Many clients also appreciate structured problem-solving, assistance with boundary-setting, and psychoeducation—especially around life transitions or complex challenges. I help clients distinguish between what they can control (their reactions and choices) and what they cannot (external circumstances), fostering a sense of agency and self-compassion.
I believe each individual is unique so I approach therapy with curiosity and respect for your personal journey. When working with me, you can expect a warm, collaborative space where you are seen as the true expert on your own experiences. I explore and consider everything in context — family systems, cultural background, trauma, and environmental stressors — to fully understand what you’re going through and will work collaboratively with you to understand your unique story so we can build on existing strengths and develop new skills to support growth and healing.
My goal is to help you make sense of what you’re feeling, clarify what you want, and build confidence and tools to move forward in a way that aligns with your values.
What clients have to say about working with me
Clients often share that they feel comfortable in my presence due to my relaxed manner. Many comment on my authenticity and honesty, saying they’ve never felt so at ease opening up to a therapist before. Others have expressed appreciation for my curiosity, noting that it makes them feel deeply heard and that I genuinely care about the details they share in our conversations.
Insurances I Accept
