Melissa Geiger-Dugandzic , LISW

Melissa Geiger-Dugandzic is a licensed social worker practicing in Ohio with eight years of professional experience supporting adults through challenging life transitions. As an LISW, which stands for Licensed Independent Social Worker, she brings clinical training and practical experience to work with issues such as stress, anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, low self-esteem, depression, grief, anger, and mood disorders. She also works with LGBT clients, individuals facing bipolar disorder, and those coping with obsessive-compulsive patterns.

Melissa has specific experience assisting first responders and veterans, and she has provided targeted support to adults dealing with gambling and substance-related addictions. Her approach centers on treating people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion while shaping conversations and treatment plans to match each person’s unique needs and circumstances. She emphasizes practical coping skills alongside emotional insight to help clients move toward greater confidence and motivation.

Melissa views the decision to seek help as an important and courageous step, and she aims to support and empower people as they pursue a more fulfilling life. She is not currently accepting new clients.

How Melissa's Approaches Translate to Online Care

Melissa uses Client-Centered Therapy to create a nonjudgmental space where the client’s perspective guides the work; this approach helps people feel heard and supports growth by focusing on individual goals and values. She also applies Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which looks at how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact and teaches practical skills for managing anxiety, low mood, and addictive patterns. Additionally, Melissa incorporates Dialectical Behavior Therapy strategies to teach emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness for those struggling with intense emotions or impulsivity.

Choosing the right approach is collaborative and often evolves over time. Melissa works with each person to identify their needs, preferences, and goals, and she tailors methods so the therapeutic plan fits what the person hopes to achieve.

Online therapy offers flexible ways to connect with licensed professionals and therapists through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging. These options make it easier to fit sessions into a busy life, maintain continuity of care when schedules change, and access support from home or other convenient locations.