Meet Melissa Zipfel Williams, LCSW, RPT-S™
Hi, I'm Melissa.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor™ in two states: Pennsylvania and Georgia.
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I am an authentic and observant counselor who provides care for those experiencing excessive amounts of worry or overwhelming feelings and unmanageable emotions. My goal is to help you stop feeling overwhelmed and anxious and start helping you make progress towards your goals.
What makes me different: I accept people with an abundance of compassion, just as they are, without judgement.
I’m no different from the clients I see. Like everyone else, I’m human. I’ve been through both wonderful and difficult experiences that have shaped who I am and how I help.
I like to listen to people’s stories and be a part of their journey. I want to help plant the seeds of change. I have been fortunate enough to be able to help others problem solve, find the puzzle piece they were missing, and help them grow.
I work with children, adolescents, young adults, and families who have challenges with emotions, anxiety, and problem solving.
Master in Social Work, Saint Louis University
Bachelor of Arts, Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Pennsylvania #CW020973
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, New Jersey #44SCO5990400
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Georgia #CSW004357
Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor™
"What makes me different: I accept people with an abundance of compassion, just as they are, without judgement."
Are you and/or your child/adolescent…
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Overwhelmed with emotions?
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Not sure how to verbalize your emotions?
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Irritated by the smallest thing?
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Struggling to label certain thoughts and feelings?
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Need help managing emotional struggles?
If so, I am here to help. I use a variety of treatment modalities (Play therapy, sand tray, creative expressive, cognitive behavioral, and client centered) in order to help each individual become their best self. I have a solid understanding of everyday life challenges, and the pathways to help the client uncover solutions to gain growth and inner strength. I strongly believe in the relationship between the therapist and client, and treat each client and situation with the utmost care. Mutual trust is imperative to successful therapy.
My Services
Currently Full
Individual Therapy
Entering into a therapeutic relationship can be challenging. But with support and guidance, one can find a safe place to communicate their thoughts and feelings about:
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Anxiety and general worries
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Depression
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Life transitions
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Adjustment difficulties
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Emotion regulation
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Social and communication skills
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Interpersonal relationship skills
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Disruptive behaviors
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Self esteem
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Personal exploration and growth
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Parenting skills and behavior management
Clinical Supervision
For clinicians looking towards clinical licensure or Registered Play Therapy status, I provide individual and group clinical and Play Therapy supervision services. During supervision, we engage in client/case consultation, take theory into practice, navigate decision making and ethical dilemmas, and discuss how to integrate self-care into daily practice.
Consulting & Speaking
If you or your agency/practice is looking for a training, presentation, or consultation, send me a message here. Topics include: Play Therapy, Creative Expressive Interventions, Parenting workshops, and Ethics in Therapy with Children and Teens.
Testimonials
Laurie Palmer, LCSW, RPT, RYT
Clinical Supervision
“I received supervision for my Play Therapy certification many years ago by Melissa. She was professional and very easy to work with. It was obvious she knew play therapy inside and out. Whenever I had a question or concern (and I had many) she was available. Her experience in the field of play therapy is varied and extensive. Over the years I have continued to turn to her for her advice and expertise.”
Former Parenting Client
Parenting Consultation
“It’s been increasingly difficult to talk to my pre-teen daughter. I am so thankful that Melissa helped me through these frustrations. She helped me to focus on how to solve the issues I am having. My daughter has been receptive and understanding and responsive. I think I have been so focused on the negative exchanges and not knowing how to address them that I wasn’t making space to create positive outcomes. I’m so relieved to have someone who understands this relationship and help me stay on top of the communication.”
Former Client, age 12
Therapy Services
“Melissa motivated me, and made me feel less stressed. She gave me tools to help me be the best person I could be, and made me realize that the feelings I have are okay. I really looked forward to our sessions.”
Current Client
Therapy Services
“I have worked with Melissa for a myriad of life’s obstacles (kids, work, relationships, self improvement). I’ve felt very at ease with Melissa. She has a very positive down to earth appeal and is always able to provide me with additional self help in the way of articles, books, and mindful tasks pertaining to those moments. I would not be where I am today without her.”
Kristi Barnes, LCSW, RPT
Clinical Supervision
“Melissa was the best RPT supervisor! She was very down to earth and supportive, and I always felt that I left our meetings with something valuable. She is still someone I can reach out to as a colleague. I am a stronger play therapist because of our work together.”
Get in Touch
Call, email, or fill out the form below to book an appointment. I am happy to answer your questions. Or, to book a free consultation, click here.
Fair Billing Practices
You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost.
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Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.
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You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any nonemergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.
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Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.
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If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.
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Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 800-985-3059