Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Garcia.
Hi Melissa, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
As a teenager, my dad traveled a lot as an amateur and professional boxing trainer. He eventually focused on professional boxers. My mom decided that the best way to keep our family close, was to also get into the pro boxing business as well. She became a manager. My parents led several young professional fighters with a dream to world rankings and world title fights. . Three were from Salinas. Along with this profession, my parents were helpers on the Central Coast. Their most beloved agency was Kinship Center (where I started my career). During the early days of this journey, I was a college student at CSUMB. I eventually earned my Masters in Psychology and became a Licensed Psychotherapist. I have always loved the strengths and resiliency of boxers. They are much more than what they bring into the ring. Now, I get to work with them and their families in the mental health field. I also support adults in other professions with high stress, anxiety, and trauma.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Nothing worth it comes easy. We have lost a few boxers due to mental health issues, including depression. This has been the most difficult part of this whole journey. I have a goal to spread mental health awareness, reduce stigma and promote reaching out for support. We also lost my dad, Max Garcia in October 2024. My brother, Sam has decided to work as a professional boxing manager and my mom, Kathy is there to support us both along the way. Losing him has both left an empty void, and has given us motivation to carry out his legacy.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in providing therapy services to adults who are struggling with high stress, anxiety and trauma. I work with professional boxers and their families, as part of my practice, however, this is not the only population I work with. I do specialize with trauma treatment, managing anxiety and with those who have high stress professions or lives. For those in the public eye, I always say that here, you are human. One of the treatment modalities I offer is EMDR which helps treat trauma and negative core beliefs about ourselves that serve as barriers to optimum performance and functioning. Everyone deserves to feel their best! I have an office in South Salinas, Ca and travel on-location for professionals. I also provide telehealth/virtual therapy for individuals in California. Another part of my practice is providing workshops and educational sessions to teams, schools, and organizations on topics such as grief, loss, trauma and suicide prevention efforts.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I believe that risk taking is important, although can be scary! As far as my career, leaving a secure agency job to go out on my own as a private practice owner full time was uncertain and unpredictable. I didn’t know if I would have enough income or even if clients would come to me. With lots of intention, preparation, hard work, and trust, my practice became full within two weeks. The most amazing thing about taking risks is that no matter what happens, it’s a learning experience. I do truly believe that when one door closes, it wasn’t meant for us, and eventually at least one more will open.
Pricing:
- 200.00 pers session
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.insessionwithmelissag.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissagarciatherapist/
