Tides Mental Health

Melissa Aparicio

LCPC

Pronouns: She/Her

Offering in-person (Chicago) & telehealth sessions

Therapy for young adults seeking clarity, confidence & lasting change.

Direct, compassionate support to help you navigate anxiety, identity, and the messy middle of growth.

Schedule a Free Consultation

Let’s Start Here

You’ve been through a lot—and you’re still standing. On the outside, you might seem like you have it together, but underneath the surface, you’re tired of constantly feeling anxious, down, or like you're just trying to survive. Maybe you’ve done therapy before or even spent time in a hospital or higher level of care, but you still haven’t found the right rhythm in everyday life. You’re trying to figure out who you are, what you want, and how to feel more grounded in your relationships. It’s a lot, and you're ready for something to shift

What would you say to someone who’s nervous or unsure about starting therapy?

Hi, I’m Melissa Aparicio, and I’m a therapist at Tides Mental Health. If you’re feeling nervous or unsure about starting therapy, you’re not alone. It’s completely normal to feel that way—especially when opening up about hard things. What I want you to know is that this is a space where we move at your pace. I’ll meet you with honesty, warmth, and zero judgment. You don’t have to show up a certain way—you just have to show up.

What It’s Like to Work Together

My approach is direct, honest, and deeply compassionate. I don’t sugarcoat things, but I never lose sight of your humanity in the process. In our work together, we’ll explore not just how you’re feeling—but why. Whether you’re navigating identity, unpacking family dynamics, or trying to make sense of past trauma, we’ll slow things down and make space to look at what’s really going on. I pull from DBT to help you build skills for managing tough emotions and communicate with more confidence, and I bring a person- centered lens that ensures you always have agency in your own healing

What can clients expect it to feel like in a session with you?

In session with me, expect a space that’s real—where you’re seen, supported, and also challenged. I’m direct but caring. We might talk about painful things, but we’ll also focus on building skills and confidence to handle them. You won’t feel rushed or dismissed; instead, we’ll take our time to understand what’s going on beneath the surface. This is your space, and I’m here to help you use it in a way that actually leads to change

What’s one reason you’re passionate about the work you do?

I didn’t grow up in a home where mental health was talked about. I had to figure out a lot of it on my own—and that lived experience drives everything I do as a therapist. I’m passionate about helping others navigate that same confusion and pain, because I know how powerful it is to finally feel seen, understood, and supported. That’s why I’m here.

Clinical Specialties​

  • Anxiety and depression
  • Identity exploration and life transitions
  • Clients stepping down from inpatient or higher levels of care
  • Bipolar disorder and schizophrenia
  • Self-harm and suicidal ideation
  • Trauma and family conflict

Treatment Modalities

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – helps you manage strong emotions, improve communication, and tolerate distress
  • Person-Centered Therapy – gives you space to lead your own healing with support and empath
  • Eclectic approach – tailored tools based on what works best for you

Populations Served​

  • Young adults and adults
  • Individuals with complex mental health histories
  • Clients from culturally diverse backgrounds
  • People navigating identity shifts or personal growth
  • Clients seeking a more directive, real-world approach to therapy

Training & Credentials​

  • Education: MA in Forensic Psychology, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
  • Licensure: Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC)
  • Certification: National Certified Counselor (NCC)
  • Languages Spoken: English
  • Availability: In-person (Chicago) & Telehealth

If you’re ready for a therapist who will challenge you, care deeply about your growth, and hold steady through the hard parts, I’d love to connect.

Schedule Free Consultation Now

Insurance We Accept

We accept most major insurance providers and offer several convenient payment methods to ensure accessibility for your care. We also offer various payment methods, including credit cards, bank transfers, and electronic payments.