Melissa Madriaga , LPC

Melissa Madriaga is a Licensed Professional Counselor working from Wisconsin who brings a practical, empathic approach to therapy. With eight years of clinical experience, she has served diverse populations including over four years working with individuals who were incarcerated and a background supporting people experiencing homelessness. She also served seven years in the United States Army Reserves, and she draws on that experience when supporting veterans and service members.

Melissa earned a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University in 2015 and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Marian University in 2010. She holds the LPC credential - Licensed Professional Counselor - and is the owner of Inner Balance Counseling, a private practice she established. Her training includes completion of an Eating Disorder Certification Program and a clinical emphasis on cognitive behavioral therapy alongside holistic care.

She works with a wide range of concerns such as stress, anxiety, depression, eating and body image issues, addictions, trauma and abuse, relationship and family difficulties, parenting challenges, and life transitions. Melissa is experienced in supporting LGBTQ and other underserved or marginalized communities and maintains an open and nonjudgmental stance. She offers scheduling flexibility to accommodate clients’ needs and provides therapy through multiple communication methods. Melissa aims to provide practical tools and compassionate support to help individuals find balance and renewed hope, and she looks forward to working with those seeking change.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Melissa uses client-centered therapy to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where the individual’s own goals and values guide the work; this approach is helpful for building self-esteem, exploring life purpose, and navigating relationship or family challenges. She also integrates cognitive behavioral therapy, which focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and difficulties with coping. In addition, Melissa draws on mindfulness therapy to help clients develop present-moment awareness and self-regulation skills useful for stress management, emotional regulation, and reducing compulsive behaviors.

Finding the right mix of approaches is part of the therapeutic process. Melissa collaborates with each person to determine which methods best fit their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting the plan as progress and circumstances evolve. This collaborative stance helps tailor interventions to what feels most useful for the individual.

Online therapy provides practical flexibility and accessibility through multiple formats - video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging. These options allow clients to engage in therapy from home or work, fit sessions into busy schedules, and maintain continuity of care when life changes occur. Licensed professionals can adapt treatment approaches effectively in these formats to support meaningful progress over time.