About Me

Get to know the professional behind Lanza Psychological Services

Melissa Lanza, Ph.D.

After two decades of providing mental health services in Ohio, I moved my private practice to San Diego, CA in 2018. I am excited to call San Diego my new home!

As a Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California and Ohio, I have been providing mental health services for over 20 years. I have worked in a variety of treatment settings including inpatient psychiatric treatment, community mental health agency, Employee Assistance Program, and private practice. I also worked as an Adjunct Instructor and Assistant Professor of Counseling.

I perform psychological evaluations and provide mental health treatment for individuals aged 13 through elderly. I am skilled in crisis management with many years of experience treating individuals’ mental health needs ranging from day-to-day stress to chronic mental illnesses.

Throughout my career, I have also provided mental health treatment for adults with Developmental/Intellectual Disabilities and individuals with Autism Disorder (formerly known as Asperger's Syndrome). My doctoral dissertation topic focused on providing mental health treatment for individuals with Developmental/Intellectual Disabilities.

My Philosophy

I believe that the most important aspect of a successful therapeutic relationship is the connection with my clients. As with any relationship, therapy works best when there is trust and mutual respect. My therapeutic style is warm, person-centered, solution-focused, and collaborative. While I believe that my clients are the experts in their own lives, I can provide a fresh perspective and support to move you in a positive direction.

I pride myself on being more than just someone to listen, but someone to help my clients look at things in a different, healthier way. I focus on making my client sessions feel comfortable and emotionally safe at all times. In therapy, I help my clients focus on their well-being, mental and emotional health, and physical wellness.

I focus on solutions, encouraging my clients to challenge their distorted thinking and change negative patterns of behavior. Through therapy, my clients gain insight, understanding, and clarity. I support my clients as they build self-confidence, find peace and contentment, and take steps toward positive change. A major focus in therapy is to develop positive coping strategies that clients can use in their daily life to feel better.

While it may be necessary to explore past situations and traumas, the focus tends to be more on the present and future. Pain, stress, and difficult times provide some of the best opportunities to create meaning and hope. I am committed to providing my clients with encouragement, support, and the resources needed to reach their goals. Together with my clients, I help them to understand both day-to-day stressors and life’s major challenges. Therapy is a unique and individual process which I address with acceptance, and both personal and professional compassion.

Education

Doctoral Respecialization: Clinical Psychology

  • Alliant International University: California School of Professional Psychology

Ph.D. in Counselor Education, CACREP accredited program

  • University of Toledo

Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling

  • Bowling Green State University

Bachelor of Science in Art Therapy

  • Bowling Green State University

Licenses

Licensed Psychologist #30909

  • California Board of Psychology

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor #3815

  • California Board of Behavioral Sciences

Supervising Professional Clinical Counselor E.0006765-SUPV

  • Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage & Family Therapist Board

Licensed Psychologist #6480

  • Ohio Psychology Board

Professional Organizations

San Diego Psychological Association: Member

California Psychological Association: Member

Ready to take your next step? Request an appointment today!