- Warm and interactive
- Skill-based tools
- Trauma-aware approach
About Melissa
She has a long background in community mental health, private practice, and correctional settings. That includes work with domestic violence survivors, sexual assault cases, at-risk youth, and child protective services matters. This range of experience informs how she tailors care to each person’s situation.
Dr. Chovan uses a mix of therapies to match the person in front of her. She draws on cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and client-centered ideas when they fit. She also continues to study trauma-focused methods to expand her options for people coping with past harm.
Her style is warm, respectful, and interactive. Sessions focus on teaching skills, building hope, and improving daily functioning. People who want to be heard and learn practical tools may find this approach helpful.
Dr. Chovan aims to partner with people who face depression, addiction, relationship and family stress, grief, parenting strain, ADHD, compassion fatigue, and life transitions. She also supports those managing more complex concerns like bipolar disorder, PTSD, and phobias through a combination of strategies and ongoing learning.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
13+ years
Credentials
Alabama, Georgia, Illinois
Languages
English
How therapeutic approaches shape online work
Client-centered therapy means the focus stays on the person's goals and experiences. The therapist listens closely and adapts ideas to what matters most to the client, which helps when stress or anxiety feels overwhelming.Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, breaks problems into thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It gives practical tools for changing patterns that fuel anxiety, depression, and many daily struggles.
Dialectical behavior therapy, DBT, teaches skills for managing intense emotions and improving communication. It can be useful for people who need tools for distress tolerance and better emotional regulation.
Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will discuss options, try methods that fit your goals, and adjust over time based on what helps most. Clients and the clinician work together to choose techniques and set reasonable steps.
If you prefer online sessions, confirm the current session options before booking since formats are not specified here. Online care can make it easier to fit appointments into a busy life, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. Talk with the therapist about scheduling and what will work best for your routine.
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does Dr. Chovan address?
She works with a wide range of issues including stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, addictions, grief, parenting and relationship challenges.
How would you describe her therapeutic style?
Her style is warm, respectful, and interactive, focusing on teaching skills, building hope, and helping people apply what they learn to daily life.
What is her professional background?
She has 13 years as a therapist and has worked in community mental health, private practice, state prison settings, at-risk youth programs, and teaching roles.
Which credentials and region are listed for this clinician?
She holds LCPC and LPC credentials and practices in Alabama.
Can I work with her if English is not my first language?
Sessions are offered in English.
Does she see international clients?
She is not currently accepting international clients.
How are sessions paid for and what is the cost model?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with her?
Select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule according to therapist availability.