Melanie Lawson, LCSW
Certified Animal-Assisted Counseling Practitioner
Hi! I am glad you stopped by to check out my profile and learn more about me. My name is Melanie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working at Olive Branch since January of 2023 when I began my clinical experience under supervision.
I attended the University of North Carolina at Pembroke for both my bachelor (BSW) and master (MSW) degrees. It was through my education that I discovered animal-assisted counseling, and the benefits clients gain from having an animal present. Thus, I worked to obtain a certification in animal-assisted counseling through Texas State University in San Marcos, TX.
My animal partner is Gertie, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. I raised her from 8 weeks of age to partner with me and obtain the animal-assisted counseling certification. She works well with all ages, and we especially enjoy working with younger clients providing animal-assisted play therapy. You can find more information on animal-assisted counseling and play therapy under the counseling tab or click here.
I work with each client to address their needs and tailor my approach to match the unique individual they are. There are many theoretically approaches that are integrated into my approach to counseling, a few that I rely on when working with clients are person-centered, systems theory, strengths perspective, and cognitive behavioral theory, while keeping humanistic approaches at the forefront. I believe that through helping clients understand the strengths they already have they can achieve their goals and dreams.
Walt Disney once said, “All our dreams come true, if we have the courage to pursue them”. I like to think of this in terms of clients pursuing goals and I hope that I can help you find your courage to pursue your goals.
Fun Fact: Gertie’s name was chosen because it is short for Gertrude which means “spear of strength”. It is my hope that clients who choose to work with Gertie and I will find a sense of strength they need to have open discussions during sessions and achieve their goals.
This clinician offers Prepare / Enrich services. Click here for more information.