Melissa Geiger-Dugandzic , LISW

Melissa Geiger-Dugandzic is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) practicing in Ohio with eight years of professional experience helping adults navigate stress, anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, and mood concerns such as depression and bipolar disorder. She has worked with first responders and veterans and has experience supporting people with gambling and substance use issues, as well as challenges related to self-esteem, motivation, grief, anger, and identity within LGBT communities. Melissa approaches each person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and she adapts conversation and treatment plans to reflect each client’s specific circumstances and goals.

She draws on a mix of evidence-informed methods to address patterns that contribute to distress, collaborating with clients to build new coping skills and increase resilience. Melissa focuses on empowering clients to make meaningful changes while acknowledging the courage it takes to seek a more fulfilling life. Her work also addresses related concerns such as codependency, control issues, dissociation, impulsivity, isolation and loneliness, and difficulties with money and functioning after trauma.

Clients can expect a tailored, goal-oriented therapeutic process in which Melissa supports and encourages progress at a pace that fits each individual’s needs. As an LISW, she combines clinical training with practical experience to support recovery, growth, and improved well-being.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Melissa blends client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy to support clients in an online setting. Client-centered therapy focuses on creating an accepting, nonjudgmental space where the therapist follows the client’s lead and helps clarify values and goals, which can be especially useful for building self-esteem and motivation. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) identifies unhelpful thought and behavior patterns and offers practical tools to reduce anxiety, depression, and problematic habits. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) teaches emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness skills, which can be helpful for people managing intense emotions, impulsivity, or relationship challenges.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Melissa works collaboratively with clients to determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences, and she adjusts the plan as progress unfolds. This collaborative stance helps tailor interventions to each person’s circumstances.

Online therapy offers flexibility in how sessions are delivered, including video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging. These options make it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules, reach care from different locations, and use the mode of communication that feels most comfortable for the client while still working with licensed professionals and therapists trained in evidence-informed approaches.