Learn More About Dr. Andrea Melendez

Hello all! I am licensed by the state of New Jersey as a professional counselor (LPC).  I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree at Rutgers University in Psychology with a minor in criminal justice in 2011. I obtained my Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Felician University in 2015 and my  Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology at Felician University in 2021.

I have trained in a variety of mental health settings treating both individuals and couples. These settings include hospitals, community and private-based clinical sites. My training also includes neuropsychology at Hackensack University Medical Center, Neuroscience Institute focusing on evaluations to assess cognitive functioning for a variety of medical diagnoses (e.g., MS, cortical and subcortical dementia, stroke, cancer, epilepsy, concussion, etc.) across both pediatric and adult populations. Lastly, completed my pre-doctoral clinical hours at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. 

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I believe that therapy is an essential way to understand how the emotional and physical bodies are connected. Gaining insight of the internal self, and learning the mind-body connection, guides us to acknowledging and accepting our actions, reactions, and behaviors. I am committed to evidence-based practice and have been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy. I also offer an integrated approach by including interventions such as ACT, mindfulness, and other techniques that incorporate an individual’s strengths in treatment. I assist individuals and couples by helping them to move forward while providing a safe environment to voice emotions, increase awareness and accept problematic thoughts and/or behaviors. I will work with clients to help them develop positive, more adaptable thoughts and behaviors for the future. Areas of specialty include fertility issues, postpartum depression,  anxiety,  assertiveness and empowerment, and other behavioral concerns. I have conducted research on mindfulness, sexuality, and intimacy, that has been showcased at a local counseling conference.