Melissa Vollhardt, MS, LMFT, RPT

Welcome! Thanks for stopping by my page to learn more about me and how I can help you or a family member. Caitlin and I started New Growth in 2021 as we saw a growing need in our community for mental health services for children, adolescents, and their grown-ups. We work with individuals of all ages, including parents and caregivers. I encourage you to read through my page to learn more about the areas I commonly treat and my approaches to counseling. If you think we may be a good fit, please feel free to reach out to me to discuss scheduling an intake session or to have a brief, free consultation over the phone. A little more about me… I take a very person-centered approach to counseling and focus on providing a place of unconditional positive regard, warmth, and empathy with all the children and adults I see. When working with children, adolescents, and even some grown-ups, I will often incorporate Play Therapy techniques. When working with children, it is essential that therapists can strategically create an environment that meets the child on their level, in their world, to allow for the expression of feelings in the most age-appropriate way. Just as adults "talk out" their issues, a child's natural way of working out a problem is through play. Self-expression happens more naturally through play for children. Play is the "language" in which children can communicate in a non-threatening way. As Virginia Axline once said, "Enter into children's play and you will find the place where their minds, hearts, & souls meet". I have completed a Graduate Certificate of Psychology in Play Therapy and have received my Registered Play Therapist (RPT) credentials from the Association of Play Therapy. Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked in the non-profit sector with women, children, and families in prevention programs. I am passionate about family work and helping all individuals live their best versions of themselves. Sometimes we get stuck in patterns that have become harmful and we can't find a way out. We can feel stuck, lost, hopeless. Together, we can begin pulling back the layers, uncovering strengths and making the shift towards personal growth and healing. ​My Graduate Degree is in Marriage and Family Counseling/Therapy from Capella University. I am a licensed therapist in the state of Florida MT#4528. On a more personal level… I am a “Jersey Girl” born and raised on the Jersey Shore. I moved to FL for college (Go Knights!) and never left. I have been married for 6 years and am an adoptive mama. I love to travel, go to the beach, hang with my dogs, go to concerts, and be with my family.