Gottman Method therapists in Farmington, Missouri MO

The right fit is of the upmost importance as you select your psychologist. Here are some things about me that I hope will help you evaluate that! 1. I love that I get to do this work every day and use the information I know to help people live fuller lives. It’s a distinct honor and privilege to be part of people making big changes in their lives, moving forward after past traumas, making changes within themselves or how they talk to themselves, trying out new ways of engaging in relationships, or starting to believe for the first time that they just might deserve the life they want to lead. 2. Being a counseling psychologist was a very intentional choice for me. I didn’t know I wanted to be a therapist until I was a Junior in college. Originally, I completed a Master’s program and seriously considered getting licensed and living happily ever after as a Licensed Professional Counselor. I knew I loved providing therapy, but I also knew I wanted to learn more! So, I decided to go forward and get my PhD in Counseling Psychology—a degree that I believe has truly allowed me to understand the complexities of psychology and provided the depth of training and experience I needed to become the kind of therapist I wanted to be. As a psychologist, I am an expert in the human experience, both when it’s working well and when issues arise. I understand the complex integration that biochemistry and genetics play as they engage with the environment and sociocultural influences leading to direct effects on mood, well-being, and mental and physical health. This applies to us as individuals, and in the various roles we play as partners, workers, parents, and within our circles of friends and family. As a counseling psychologist, I help people with physical, emotional, and mental disorders improve well-being, alleviate distress and maladjustment, and resolve crises (APA, 2012). I believe that all of these things make psychologists like myself uniquely skilled in providing psychological assessment, diagnosis, and treating mental health disorders. 3. I have been a therapist all over this country. That may not seem like a big deal, but it has provided me some pretty unique experiences that have fundamentally changed how I do what I do. I’ve worked as a therapist in a fancy high-rise building in New York City. I’ve done therapy sitting on the floor of my client’s living room (while I worked in community mental health in low SES areas). So many different needs, so many different lifestyles and backgrounds! These experiences taught me that there are just a few core things required to have a healing experience in therapy, but they all start with two people together in a room, genuinely trying to connect with one another. I also see a direct connection between these experiences and my dedication to practice with respect, compassion, and equity for all. 4. I work with people, not “problems.” I can’t tell you how many of my clients have commented on this in some way or another. They express feeling supported and safe because we don’t allow therapy to minimize them to just those things that they may struggle with… we aim to understand their whole-person just a bit better each time we sit down. While yes, sometimes that includes some serious concerns, we work on understanding how this may make sense given their history/experiences, what they want to work towards changing, and we do it with lots of self-compassion along the way. 5. When I’m not working… you’d be most likely to find me cooking, relaxing with my dog, or practicing piano. I began teaching myself piano about 2 1/2 years ago (through an iPad app no less) and I thoroughly enjoy the “brain break” it provides me. More recently, I’ve been working on some crafting and home DIY projects. I love figuring out just how much I can make out of goods purchased only from the Dollar Tree (not kidding). Finally, I am an amateur connoisseur of coffee, pickles, and popcorn, and I take these things very seriously.  

One of the hardest parts of starting therapy is choosing the right therapist for you, and I hope to join you in your journey toward greater self-awareness and growth. Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. Together, we’ll explore the different parts of you—your thoughts, emotions, and reactions—to understand their roles and needs. In a compassionate, non-judgmental space, we’ll work to help you find balance, regain a sense of empowerment, and move toward a more meaningful and fulfilling life. Central to my work is the concept that our relationship, and the authentic exploration of that relationship, will better help you make meaning out of other important relationships in your life. While this work can be challenging, it leads to greater emotional and interpersonal fulfillment, elevation of mood, and increased freedom from anxiety. While I have enjoyed working effectively with a wide variety of individuals, I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma, and couples/relationship challenges. I strive to create a warm, supportive space and welcome any questions you have as you consider starting this journey. I look forward to connecting with you.  

My therapy style is warm, casual, conversational, and guided my own curiosity and desire to meet people as they are. I offer connection without judgment. I want to get to know you and what makes you - YOU.  

Feeling alone? Confused with how you got here, or even where to go from here? Frustrated with not feeling authentic? Or maybe you’re stuck in the same pattern. My therapeutic style is affirming, collaborative, and warm. I provide a compassionate space to explore your experience, and experiment with what it means to live authentically in a world of conflicting norms/expectations. Together, we will work to make intentional and sustainable changes. If you feel like we might be a good fit, please reach out for a free 20-minute phone consultation where I can answer any of your lingering questions.  

Hi, I’m Dr. Melissa Jermann, a licensed psychologist with a deep passion for helping individuals overcome the challenges of OCD, anxiety, trauma, and perfectionism. I understand how these struggles can affect every aspect of your life, making even the smallest decisions or tasks feel overwhelming. That’s why my practice is committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based care that empowers you to reclaim your life!