Meet Melissa Saari, MA, LPC
Hello! My name is Melissa. I graduated with my Master’s Degree in Counseling and Psychological
Services from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota in May 2022. I am a pre-licensed clinician working
under supervision towards LPCC licensure. It is an honor to walk with you on your journey, through
darkness and light, navigating paths and lessons that present to you along the way.
My Therapy Philosophy
I believe therapy provides us time and space to be truly heard and seen - to gain insights into ourselves,
our relationships with others and our purposes in life. Validation, empathy and a non-judgmental stance
are all key components to building trust and safety in the therapeutic alliance that I value deeply. I enjoy
working with individuals (adults and children ages 9-12) and couples.
My approach to therapy is compassionate, warm and encouraging. I enjoy incorporating a variety of
therapeutic approaches and believe therapy is a place for collaboration, creativity and healing. I work to
provide gentle support in navigating painful, difficult emotions and experiences while creating room for
growth, laughter and humor in enhancing your resilience and recovery.
I have 7+ years of experience in the mental health field, ranging from community mental health work to
outpatient therapy services. I am also a Registered Yoga Teacher through Yoga Alliance and completed
my 200-hour yoga teacher training in 2021 through Live True Yoga.
My areas of clinical interest include:
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Anxiety Disorders
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Perfectionism
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Depressive Disorders
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Empaths/Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs)
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Integrative/Holistic/Whole Health Approaches
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Self-Esteem, Positive Psychology & Resilience
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Trauma & Stressor-Related Disorders
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Borderline Personality Disorder
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Couples Counseling - Relationship Concerns, Communication & Conflict Issues
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Couples Counseling - Traditional Relationships/Couples
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Couples Counseling - Nontraditional Relationships/Couples
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Cognitive Behavior Therapy
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Dialectical Behavior Therapy
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Existential & Narrative Approaches
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LGBTQ+ Concerns
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Parts Work
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Attachment Work
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Identity Exploration
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Harm Reduction
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Mindfulness
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Yoga for Mental Health
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Somatic Therapy
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Stress Management
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Spirituality
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Neurodivergent
Contact
Phone: 320.424.0795
Email: melissa@northcountrycounseling.net
Appointment Availability:
Tuesdays 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
Wednesdays 8:00 am - 2:00pm
Fridays - by special request, limited availability