Melida Reyes, LMFT

Melida is a lifelong New Yorker who grew up in the Manhattan neighborhood of Washington Heights. She studied Psychology at The College of Mount Saint Vincent, where she earned her undergraduate degree. She went on to study Marriage and Family Therapy at Mercy College. She is also trained in Diadic Developmental Psychotherapy.

Melida has worked in Foster Care as well as in home-based and outpatient mental healthcare. She has experience working with adults, children & teens, individuals and families involved in the criminal justice system, as well as undocumented immigrants. She is planning to research and gain further insight into the effects of cannabis on daily functioning and its correlation with mood and behavioral changes, specifically in individuals suffering from depression and anxiety.

Melida’s clinical and therapeutic style can be best described as a relational therapist, using modalities such as Narrative Therapy, client-centered therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help individuals work towards cultivating autonomy, self-confidence, and healthier relationships. She values the power of storytelling and drawing unique strengths that will help navigate through the course of life. As a therapist, Melida works with individuals to gain understanding in that past negative experiences do not determine future successes. She also provides mind-body based techniques to support holistic healing. Melida believes that time wasted is time lost, which drives her motivation to help people make the most of each moment.

Melida is a fully bilingual speaker of English and Spanish and identifies as an Afro-Latina of Dominican descent. She proudly supports the LGBTQ communities. To prioritize her mental health and self-care, she participates in salsa dancing, watching basketball, and playing Parcheesi. She enjoys spending time with loved ones as well as traveling.

Melida gives back to the community by being a voice/advocate for the youth involved in the criminal justice system. She also makes a point to participate in walks and events that cater to breast cancer awareness and systems of oppression involving women.