Supervision With Melissa
Welcome!
I provide clinical supervision for Master's-level LMHCAs who are working toward licensure in Washington State. Having made the transition from community mental health to the rewarding world of private practice myself, I understand both the excitement and the challenges that come with building a career in this field.
I know firsthand that the journey isn't always straightforward. From navigating licensure requirements to overcoming the obstacles of starting a private practice, I've been there. My goal is to provide not only quality clinical supervision, but also practical guidance, encouragement, and support as you grow your confidence, strengthen your clinical skills, and build the practice you envision.
Whether you're just beginning your career or already dreaming of owning your own practice, I'm committed to helping you navigate each step of the journey with confidence. My hope is that you'll leave supervision not only fully licensed, but with the knowledge, experience, and foundation to build a thriving practice of your own.
CLINICAL SUPERVISION
I am an approved clinical supervisor in Washington State.
Becoming an approved supervisor requires maintaining an independent license in good standing for at least two years, completing supervised training in clinical supervision, and pursuing continuing education focused specifically on supervision. These requirements have helped prepare me to provide thoughtful guidance, meaningful feedback, and support throughout your journey toward licensure.
I truly enjoy mentoring new clinicians and helping them build not only strong clinical skills, but also the confidence and knowledge needed to create a fulfilling and successful career.
Whether your goal is to become independently licensed, open your own private practice, or simply grow as a therapist, I'm excited to be part of your journey.
WHO DO I SUPERVISE? AND WHAT IS REQUIRED FOR LICENSURE?
I provide clinical supervision for LMHCAs who are working toward independent licensure in Washington State.
Before you can begin earning supervised clinical hours, you'll first need to obtain your Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA) credential. As part of that process, the Washington State Department of Health requires an approved supervisor to complete and sign documentation confirming they will be supervising your clinical experience. I'll guide you through each step, answer your questions, and help make the process as smooth as possible.
Once your LMHCA is approved, you can begin seeing clients under my supervision while working toward full licensure. Below, you'll find the requirements and milestones you'll need to complete on your path to becoming a fully licensed mental health counselor.
LMHCs (Licensed Mental Health Counselors)
-
3,000 hours of experience, or 36 months of full time (whichever comes first):
-
1,200 direct client contact (individuals, couples, families, or groups)
-
100 hours of immediate supervision with LMHC or other license (with up to one other associate)
-
*If your degree is CACREP accredited, you’ll be credited 50 supervision hours and 500 contact hours*
-
HOW IT WORKS
Supervision Needs
We'll set up a regular meeting time that works for both of us and stick with the same day and time each week to create consistency throughout your supervision journey. If you're in Whatcom County, I'm happy to meet in person. If you're outside the area,
we'll meet virtually.
Our meetings are a dedicated space for you to earn the supervision hours you need for licensure, consult on client cases, build your confidence, and ask questions as they come up. Whether you're navigating a challenging case or wanting to deepen your skills in a particular area, I'm here to support your growth every step of the way.
Cost and Client Caseload
I like to keep the financial side of supervision as simple and supportive as possible. Instead of charging an hourly supervision fee, I invoice a percentage of the income you earn each month. That means there are no upfront supervision costs, giving you the flexibility to invest in the tools and resources you'll need as you build your practice.
As part of working with me, you'll also have access to my billing support. I'll help you get set up with insurance contracts, and my biller will handle claims for both insurance and private-pay clients so you can spend more of your time focusing on your clients—not paperwork.
When you've completed supervision and become fully licensed, the practice you've been building is yours. You'll be able to continue working with the clients you've established and move forward under your own business with a strong foundation already in place.
INTERESTED IN WORKING WITH ME? LET’S CHAT.