
A counselor trainee (CT) is a graduate counseling student seeking licensure as a professional counselor. Counselor Trainees have the same scope of practice as a professional counselor, but require much closer supervision during the training process.
Melanie Whisman (pronouns: she/her) is a counselor trainee who works with children and adults. Her specialty interests include: children’s issues, older adult issues, trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression. She uses evidence-based treatment approaches that are adapted to each individual client’s needs.
Melanie completed her advanced education at Walsh University, earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She is currently a master’s student at her alma mater completing a degree in clinical mental health counseling. She has a strong passion for learning and continues to grow and apply what she learns in counseling sessions.
Prior to private practice, Melanie worked with children with autism and special needs as an intervention specialist She also worked in a crisis center supporting children who have experienced traumatic events.
These experiences bolstered her passion for counseling children. She also has experience in occupational therapy settings working with the elderly population.
Melanie’s approach to counseling is centered on being supportive, empathetic, and client focused. She values creating a safe and comfortable environment where clients feel heard, respected, and supported throughout the counseling process. Melanie incorporates evidence-based practices and utilizes techniques that will best meet the needs of each individual client.
Her strengths include: being kind-hearted, a strong listener, hardworking, dependable, and compassionate.