Meet The Team

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Meet Melissa Mellon, LMFT (she/her/hers)

Founder and Director

CA License: LMFT 40670

Rate: $250 per 50 minute session

EMDR Certified

Deciding to begin the therapy process is an important and life-changing decision. Life can bring so many beautiful and challenging experiences and opportunities. As a therapist in Orange County, CA, I believe that each of us has the knowledge and ability to create the life that we desire.  Sometimes we just need some support and guidance in that process.

Also, I know therapy can be uncomfortable and awkward at first. As a therapist, I respect how vulnerable and humbling it can be to take the necessary steps toward therapy. As a result, I strive to offer a comfortable and safe space to help you define your own goals. We will work collaboratively together to reach your goals, but you will always be the driver.

Clients tell me that I am different from other therapists

Some therapists in Orange County will simply sit and listen to you. But, I am not one of those therapists. I will listen and support you AND I will challenge you to work towards building a life that lights you up. We will laugh, cry, and have fun together, all while getting the tough work done! I offer the experience, knowledge, and skills to help you work through whatever issues are getting in your way. Whether they be stress, life changes, family conflict, depression, anxiety, or trauma.

In my work with children and families, I believe that whether your family has been created through birth, foster, or adoption, developing attachment, connection, and unconditional love is paramount to creating a healthy and loving home.   I work closely with children, teens, and caregivers to develop communication skills and interactions that make the home safe and comfortable for all.

I understand how important it is to feel comfortable and compatible with your therapist in Orange County.  Feel free to contact me for a consultation to see if I would be a good fit for your therapy journey. I look forward to speaking with you!

A little about me:

I adopted by daughter through a Kinship Foster placement when she was 2 years old. I love dogs (and have 3 of them in fact and therefore a pretty loud home), reading novels, listening to lots of nerdy podcasts and audio books, Disneyland, am rather high maintenance with my coffee, love a good Netflix binge watching weekend, and run on sentences.

Melissa’s Book Recommendations:

• Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John Gottman
• Getting Past Your Past by Francine Shapiro
• The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
• Daring Greatly by Brene Brown
• The Empath’s Survival Guide by Judith Orloff
• Untamed by Glennon Doyle
• Wolfpack by Abby Wambach
• The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
• Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
• Attached by Amir Levine & Rachel Heller
• The Whole Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel
• The Connected Child by Karyn B. Purvis
• The Invisible String by Patrice Karst and Joanne Lew-Vriethoff
• The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn

Meet Lorraine Burga, LMFT (she/her/hers)

CA License: LMFT 131958

Rate: $200 per 50 minute session

Speaks Spanish

EMDR Trained

“The hardest thing to do is to simplify your life. It is so easy to make complex.”- Yvon Chouinard. With the crazy demands’ life throws at us like work, school, family, relationships, important events and trauma it can be a challenge to find time to be present when we worry about the future and carry the past. To simply be becomes a luxury money cannot buy and something our busy schedules prevent us from doing. 

When attempting to meditate, to work out, to read, or to relax it seems that our mind still finds a way to remind us of our past or worry about our future. With that comes fear, sadness, anxiety and stress. It can be frustrating to be told to “engage in self-care” when one has millions of things to worry about or trauma to try and process while living life. 

While in therapy one can freely express, be still, and find a safe space to process the difficulties that life presents or has presented.  

I would like to be the hand you hold on your therapeutic journey. I will help you make sense of your most complicated thoughts without judgement and help assist you with developing effective coping strategies that you can utilize to your advantage. With that, you will be able to focus on being more present and regaining control of your life once again. I will help you learn that your past does not define you and fear of the future should not hold you back from being present. I have received positive feedback from parents, families and individual clients who have felt heard, seen and understood and I would love to be that for you as well. 

A little about me:

I enjoy sitting on the beach and listening to the waves come and go, it helps me stay present! I am first generation Peruvian- America and speak Spanish fluently. I enjoy walks, reading, binging Netflix and baking (I have the biggest sweet tooth!) My dog is the best distraction I could ask for and I love spending time with my friends and family because they help keep my head above water!

Lorraine’s Book Recommendations:

• Let That Sh*t Go- Nina Purewal and Kate Petriw
• Can You Drink the Cup? – Henri J.M. Nouwen
• The Body Keeps the Score- Bessel Van Der Kolk, M.D

Lorraine’s App Recommendations:

• Sanvello
• Calm
• Card Decks
• PTSD Coach

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Meet Guadalupe Vera, LMFT (she/her/hers)

CA License: LMFT 157126

Rate: $180 per 50 minute session

Speaks Spanish

Hola, bienvenidos! Hello, welcome! My name is Lupe and I am a proud bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist trained to provide therapy in both English and Spanish. 

As the daughter of Mexican immigrants and a first-generation college graduate, I am deeply committed to serving diverse communities with cultural sensitivity and empathy. I understand the stigma that comes with seeking therapy and am proud of you for making the first step towards your mental health journey! As Frida Kahlo once said, “At the end of the day, we can endure much more than we think we can.”

As your therapist, my desire is to help you on your healing journey in efforts to overcome and endure what life throws your way. 

With more than three years of clinical experience, I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and their families to strengthen relationships, improve communication, and overcome emotional and behavioral challenges. Additionally, as a Chicana, I have particular interest and experience supporting young women of color through issues related to self-esteem, identity development, and cultural challenges, empowering them to build confidence and resilience. 

I know how difficult it can be to find a therapist that feels “right.” In my years working with various clients, I have often been told that I am easy to connect with, often making clients feel understood and seen while also often making them laugh! If you feel like we could make a good team, please feel free to contact me. I look forward to connecting with you!

A little about me:

I am a Saggitarius! I love to travel and try new foods with my husband. My favorite artist at the moment is Karol G. I am constantly listening to audiobooks and also enjoy listening to history and true crime podcasts. I live for coffee runs! I love all things Disney!

Lupe’s Book Recommendations

• You are a Badas by Jen Sincero 
• The Tricky Sticky Addiction Monster by Charlaine Sevigny
• I’m Worried by Michael Ian Black 
• The Night Dad Went to Jail by Melissa Higgins 
• The Invisible String by Patrice Karst 
• You Weren’t With Me by Chandra Ghosh Ippen
• The Hugging Tree by Jill Neimark 
• A Little SPOT Series by Diane Alber
• El Libro de los sentimientos escrito por Todd Parr
• Ninjas Have Feelings by Mary Nhin
• What to do When You Feel Like Hitting by Cara Goodwin
• Where Hands Go by Krystaelynne Sanders DIggs
• La amistad que necesito escrito por Gabi Garcia
• A Terrible Thing Happened by Margaret Holmes

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Allison Huynh (she/her/hers)

CA Registration: AMFT 131046 Supervised by Melissa Mellon, LMFT #40670

Rate: $160 per 50 minute session

EMDR Trained

Even the most resilient, creative, and high achieving people face moments which bring them to their knees. They may feel blindsided by a traumatic event, loss of a meaningful relationship, burnout, or a medical diagnosis forcing them to evaluate the trajectory of their lives. They lack energy for self-care, loved ones, work, school, or activities which once brought joy. They stumble through a fog of emotional numbness, find themselves crying when no one is around, or feel flooded with anxious thoughts. They desire revitalization within themselves and their significant relationships.

Finding a therapist can be extremely stressful especially when life already feels overwhelming. It can be tough to find someone who will create a warm and safe space while also gently challenging you to take steps forward in building the life you envision for yourself. To achieve this balance, I approach each session with hope, patience, and humility to support clients as they determine their goals for healing and change in their lives. I integrate techniques from attachment theory, emotionally focused therapy, ACT, CBT, and other evidenced-based practices to support your therapeutic process.

I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and life transitions.

Although I truly love working with clients of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences, the clients who gravitate toward me often identify as ambitious, creative, and deep thinkers.

I also offer family and couple therapy with an interest in interracial relationships. With compassion and curiosity, we will process emotions, change unhelpful thought and behavior patterns, strengthen coping skills, and repair damaged relationships. 

By integrating emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and relational strategies, we will discover meaningful insight into the distress you are experiencing and lay a foundation for lasting change. When you are ready, I would be honored to partner with you in your healing journey.

A little about me:

Our therapeutic relationship is about you, but if it is helpful, here is a bit about my background. Prior to becoming a therapist, I earned a B.A. in Political Science from the University of California, Berkeley. I also had a career for over 15 years in sales and marketing and spent 7 years mentoring high school girls. Through these experiences and my own personal therapy, I developed a passion for helping people find healing and meaning in their lives. This led me to pursue a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University. I have been married for over seven years, I love sushi, and an impromptu dance party does wonders for my mental health.

Yasmeen Pardo, AMFT (she/her/hers)

CA Registration: AMFT 142036 Supervised by Lorraine Burga, LMFT 131958

Rate: $160 per 50 minute session

Speaks Spanish

EMDR Trained

Reaching out for help is often the most difficult step. We may think “Why wasn’t I strong enough to deal with this on my own?” or “What is wrong with me?”. We may even downplay our experiences, thinking “There are others who have it worse” or “I’m just being dramatic.” It’s okay to have these thoughts, and it’s okay to realize that we can’t do it all on our own. 

As your therapist, I am here to support you in all aspects of the human experience – especially the ones that make us question ourselves. Whether it be feelings of shame, grief, inadequacy, or something else that is challenging to name, I will be there to guide you gently through. 

I utilize empathy, compassion, and gentle curiosity in the therapy room. As a collaborator in your process, I will help you to explore and discover while always allowing you to set the pace for your own journey. As a companion, I will be by your side when difficult emotions arise – guiding you through coping mechanisms, providing resources, and strengthening support systems. 

I believe that everyone has within themselves exactly what they need to live their most satisfying life.

My role is to help you uncover that which is already within. In this way, I utilize a Solution-Focused approach to highlight strengths and identify small steps towards healing and change. I also integrate techniques from Emotionally Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, and IFS in order to tailor therapy specifically to each person’s needs. 

As a Latina and descendent of immigrants myself, I am passionate about intergenerational healing and breaking cycles. I take an inclusive approach to therapy, taking into account social, political, cultural, and economic contexts when considering family stories and histories. I specialize in working with individuals, families, and couples navigating the stressors associated with living in different cultures and mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. 

Meet Mikayla Page, AMFT (she/her/hers)

CA Registration: AMFT 149021

Supervised by Melissa Mellon, LMFT #40670

Rate: $150 per 50 minute session

Hello, please call me Simone. Welcome! I’m so glad you are here. There are many reasons people look for therapy, and just as many reasons why people do not. Maybe your culture or family is not supportive of therapy. Perhaps you were taught that seeing a therapist means something is wrong with you. You might expect yourself to be able to handle everything on your own. Or you may be afraid of what therapy can uncover. My question for you is: Are you ready to start making a change in your life?

If you relate to any of those ideas, then you are at the right place. I believe that seeking therapy is not a sign of weakness, but a courageous step toward growth and healing. Each of us has an incredible resilience within, waiting to be tapped into. My own journey began as a client, so I truly understand how intimidating and vulnerable the therapeutic process can feel. I know firsthand how important it is to find a safe space where you can be your authentic self.

As a queer woman and BIPOC clinician, I recognize the profound impact that our identities have on our experiences and patterns in life.

That is why I approach therapy through an intersectional lens, paying close attention to the unique facets of your identity—whether it is ethnicity, age, gender, ability, sexual orientation, religion, or socio-economic background. This holistic perspective allows us to delve deeper into the nuances of your story and how they shape your journey.

In my collaborative work with clients, I infuse person-centered therapy with mindfulness and cognitive behavioral techniques. This blend helps us navigate the complexities of diversity, identity, intimate partner violence, and racial trauma while ensuring you feel supported at every step. You are the driver in this process, and I am here to be your biggest cheerleader, ready to encourage you while also challenging you to grow.

If you feel alone or overwhelmed, know that you don’t have to face this journey by yourself. I am here to provide a compassionate, welcoming space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly. Together, we can create a path toward healing and self-discovery.

A little about me:

Meet Amanda Rogers, AMFT (she/her/hers)

CA Registration: AMFT 157244

Supervised by Melissa Mellon, LMFT #40670

Rate: $150 per 50 minute session

In today’s digital age, we receive hundreds of messages a day. Whether it’s from our family, friends, jobs, television, or social media – it’s easy to get lost in everyone else’s story and disconnect from your own. In our work together, we will uncover and celebrate your identity, taking the time to discover how the wins and losses of life shape who you are today. At its heart, this process will be collaborative. 

You are the author of your story, and you will always have agency and choice in how our process unfolds. 

My role is to guide and support you as you reconnect with yourself, come home to your truth, and reclaim your vitality and wholeness in a world that often leaves us feeling disconnected, numbed, or tuned out.

My Expressive Arts Therapy training allows us the opportunity to explore your story through narrative, drama, visual, collage, and sandtray techniques alongside traditional talk therapy. These creative approaches invite you to witness yourself from new perspectives, uncover hidden strengths, and reimagine the ways your personal story continues to shape your life. Rather than searching for something outside yourself, you will learn how to use these modalities to strengthen the skills and resources you already possess.Therapy is not about changing who you are, but about strengthening the gifts you already hold and equipping you with tools you can carry into daily life.

I also integrate somatic and polyvagal approaches, which invites you to step out of being stuck in the purely cognitive process and into embodiment of the present moment. Healing is a collective, community-based process and by cultivating safety within yourself first you open the door to deeper connection – with your body, your emotions, and ultimately, with others. Our work supports balance, grounding, and an increased sense of resilience as you navigate life’s challenges.

A little about me:

My own CPTSD healing journey has centered on attachment work, intergenerational trauma, and just as importantly, on intergenerational resilience. By exploring my ancestry, I’ve been able to navigate my identity as a white-bodied Latina with Indigenous (Karuk) roots. This exploration deeply informs my practice and strengthens my ability to support clients from diverse backgrounds with cultural humility and care. Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time in nature, experimenting creatively in the kitchen, and relaxing with my two cats, Henry and Penelope.

Amanda’s Book Recommendations:

• What My Bones Know: A Memoir of Healing from Complex Trauma by Stephanie Foo
• Decolonizing Therapy: Oppression, Historical Trauma, and Politicizing Your Practice by Jennifer Mullan PsyD
• Anchored: How to Befriend Your Nervous System Using Polvagal Theory by Deb Dana
• The Pain We Carry: Healing from Complex PTSD for People of Color by Natalie Y. Gutiérrez LMFT
• Restoring the Kinship Worldview by Wahinkpe Topa & Darcia Narvaez PhD
• My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Path to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies by Resmaa Menakem MSW

Amanda’s App Recommendations:

• Polyvagal Card Deck: 58 Practices for Calm and Change
• Insight Timer
• DBT Coach

Start Your Journey With A Therapist in Orange County, CA

Therapy can seem like a lot at first, but we’d love to support you every step of the way. Our Orange County-based therapy practice is here for you to provide the support you deserve! If you have any more questions, we would love for you to read our FAQ page. To get started, follow these simple steps:

1. Click on the Get Started Button
2. Meet with a member of our team
3. Begin experiencing the rewards of therapy!

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Services Offered at Moxie Family Therapy

Our team offers a variety of services at our Orange County, CA therapy practice. Mental health services Moxie Family Therapy provide include counseling for women, EMDR and trauma therapy, couples counseling, counseling for teen girls, family counseling, therapy for therapists, and counseling for young adults and college students.