Melanie Fordham (she, her), MSW, LCSW

It takes a lot of strength to reach out for help.  Sometimes it is very difficult to see outside the tunnel that we may be stuck in.  One of the most important aspects of coming to therapy is to feel supported and comfortable. It is crucial to have a connection because it may be difficult to open up and talk about some of the challenges that may be present in your life.

I approach counseling from a Strengths-based perspective and want to meet you where you presently are. I use techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques to help individuals achieve their goals. I want to see you move forward and improve things in your life.

Sometimes the small steps we take are actually the big steps that make all the difference. I am looking forward to working with you and helping you to achieve your goals and dreams.

Clinical Areas of Interest/Training:

Social Work has been the best field for me to enter numerous years ago. I have significant experience and have helped individuals in many different settings and stages of their lives. From working on a Suicide Hotline to working with individuals in their homes in many capacities, to working with teenagers and older adults as they go through the challenges of their generation.  Clinically, my experience spans a wide range. I have a soft spot for helping people through anxiety and depression as well as the older population who struggle with grief and the many changes they are experiencing. I have discovered strength in helping those with life transitions and families struggling with ADHD or behavioral problems. I have a wide range of experience with different aspects of mental health.  I enjoy working with Children, Teenagers, Families, and Individuals from all walks of life.

Education:

I completed my Bachelor of Science degree at Middle Tennessee State University in Child Development and Family Studies.  I went on to achieve my Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Tennessee- Knoxville. Go Vols! My internship focused on working at a Residential Facility for Adolescents experiencing serious emotional and behavioral problems. When I started working in the field of Social Work after college, many of my employment experiences centered around working with older adults. I feel that I am continuing to grow and evolve with each job experience I have.

License:

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Illinois since 2009. My license number is 149.014211.



support@thrivinglivescounseling.com
708-963-0333


Send a Message

By submitting this form via this web portal, you acknowledge and accept the risks of communicating your health information via this unencrypted email and electronic messaging and wish to continue despite those risks. By clicking "Yes, I want to submit this form" you agree to hold Brighter Vision harmless for unauthorized use, disclosure, or access of your protected health information sent via this electronic means.

Find My Office

7851, 185th Street, Suite 203 Tinley Park, IL 60477
708-963-0333
support@thrivinglivescounseling.com

Recent Blog Posts

Tips to Help Bond with Your Teen

When our children are young, they come to us, it seems, innumerable times throughout the day wanting to share something...
Read More
Tips to Help Bond with Your Teen

5 Ways to Stop Panic Attacks

If you’ve ever experienced a panic attack, you know firsthand the name is apropos. Within seconds you can go from...
Read More
5 Ways to Stop Panic Attacks

Exploring Parenting Challenges by Age

Whether your child is an infant, a preteen, or a full-fledged adult, you may be overwhelmed and in need of...
Read More
Exploring Parenting Challenges by Age

The Link Between ADHD & Creativity

You’ve probably heard of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (more commonly referred to as “ADHD”). This very common mental disorder often causes difficulty...
Read More
The Link Between ADHD & Creativity

What Is Oppositional Defiant Disorder?

Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) can cause a child to frequently exhibit anger, irritability, and defiance against their parents and other...
Read More
What Is Oppositional Defiant Disorder?