Richard Melendez is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and CASAC Master Counselor in the State of New York. He earned his Master of Arts in Counseling & Community Psychology from Russell Sage College and is currently completing a Master of Science in Health Services Administration. Richard previously earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the State University of New York at Albany and an Associate of Applied Science in Chemical Dependency Counseling from Hudson Valley Community College.
Richard has over ten years of clinical experience working with adults across a wide range of behavioral health and substance use concerns. He is particularly interested in supporting clients experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relational challenges, and dual‑diagnosis presentations. Richard practices from an integrative, person-centered perspective, focusing on collaboration, empowerment, and helping clients build emotional resilience. He incorporates interventions from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Gestalt therapy, REBT, solution‑focused therapy, polyvagal‑informed approaches, and trauma-informed care to meet each client’s unique needs. Richard prioritizes the therapeutic relationship as the foundation for meaningful growth, healing, and autonomy.
Before becoming a therapist, Richard worked in a variety of behavioral health and educational roles, including working as an adjunct professor, supporting the development of future clinicians.
In his free time, Richard enjoys listening to music on vinyl records, meditation, and engaging in activities that support personal growth and well‑being.
