About Melissa

I have worked in the mental health field for over two decades in a variety of settings, including residential programs, inpatient psychiatric care, emergency services, and schools. These experiences have given me a deep appreciation for the many ways people cope, grow, and adapt.

In my practice, I prioritize creating a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgmental environment. Together, we look at patterns that may be causing struggle or resistance in your life. Once those patterns are named and understood, we can begin to build new, more mindful responses that support self-compassion, healthy boundaries, and resilience. My hope is that you leave therapy with practical strategies and a renewed sense of confidence in yourself.

Clinical Focus & Experience

I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I am a DDS provider with the Autism Waiver Program, and I enjoy supporting individuals on the autism spectrum, helping them and their families navigate the shift into greater independence, community living, and adult services.

I also have extensive experience supporting:
• People with ADHD
• Anxiety and depression
• Life transitions and adjustment
• Emotional and behavioral challenges in school, home, and community settings

My Approach to Therapy

I believe that healing begins with feeling truly seen, understood, and supported. In our work together, we take time to gently explore the patterns, emotions, and past experiences that may be shaping your current challenges. By slowing down and bringing mindful awareness to your thoughts, feelings, and physical responses, we create space for new understanding, self-compassion, and more adaptive ways of coping.

As part of this process, I incorporate Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT)—also known as tapping—to help clients manage stress, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm, including trauma. EFT blends elements of cognitive therapy with acupressure by guiding you to gently tap on specific meridian points while focusing on thoughts, emotions, or memories. This supports the release of emotional blocks, helps regulate the nervous system, and reduces the intensity of distressing experiences. Many clients find EFT to be a simple yet powerful tool that promotes balance, grounding, and lasting emotional well-being.

I also use Brainspotting, a trauma-processing modality that helps access the brain’s natural ability to heal itself. Brainspotting works by identifying eye positions, or “brainspots,” that correspond with the activation of difficult emotions or memories. By gently focusing on these spots in a safe and attuned therapeutic relationship, clients can process and release deeply held trauma, reduce physical and emotional distress, and experience greater clarity and regulation. Brainspotting is especially helpful when traditional talk therapy feels overwhelming or not quite enough, allowing healing to occur on a deeper, neurobiological level.

My approach is collaborative, steady, and paced with intention. I will offer guidance, structure, and practical strategies, while always honoring your lived experiences, personal preferences, and the unique ways you move through the world.

Groups & Community Support

In addition to individual and family therapy, I facilitate ongoing social skills groups for individuals on the autism spectrum. These weekly groups offer a consistent space to practice socializing, build communication skills, and receive support in a structured but relaxed environment.

I also host autism-friendly social events, such as meet-and-greets with games, crafts, and other activities, to help individuals on the spectrum connect with peers and feel part of a supportive community.

Accepted Insurances

• Aetna
• Anthem
• Cigna
• ConnectiCare
• Husky Health / Medicaid
• Medicare
• Oxford
• UnitedHealthcare
• Out of Network

How to Get Started with Melissa

If you’re interested in working together individually, joining a group, or learning more about whether I might be a good fit for you or your child, I invite you to reach out.

📧 MHoon@melissahoonlcsw.com (Email is the best and quickest way to get in touch.)

📞 (860) 559-5433

You’re welcome to share a bit about what you’re looking for, and we can schedule a time to talk about next steps.