FAQ

Where is your office?
4255 Main Street
Suite 7
Riverside, CA 92501
What are your office hours?

I’m available via email and telephone from Monday through Friday.

My working hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

How long is a typical session?
Each individual therapy session is 50 minutes. If we need more time, I am open and willing to discuss how we can address your specific needs.
How do I get started?
You can click “Let’s get started” or call me at (951) 899-4558 to schedule your free initial consultation.
What is the best way to contact you?
The best way to reach out to me is via email or telephone. My email is melissa.sanchezlcsw@gmail.com, and my phone number is (951) 899-4558.
How do I pay?

Payment is super easy!

I’ll gather your billing information at the start of services. After each session is complete, I will make a charge through a protected billing platform. You can pay with any major credit or debit card.

Do you accept insurance?
I currently only accept Optum insurance.
Can I cancel an appointment? What is the cancellation policy?
If you are unable to attend a session, you must notify me via email 24 hours before the session. If a notification to cancel is not received, you will incur a charge for the full rate for your missed session.
With what age range do you work?
I am currently working with adults who are over the age of 18.
Do you work with BIPOC and the LGBTQIA communities?
Yes! I am very passionate about serving the BIPOC and LGBTQIA communities.
What is Walk and Talk Therapy?
Walk and Talk therapy takes place while walking outdoors. This option is great for people who enjoy movement while talking or feel more comfortable talking side by side.
How long have you been in practice?
I have been working as a therapist in the mental health field for over ten years.
Do you offer video or phone sessions?
I currently provide in-person sessions, video, phone, and Walk and Talk Therapy.
What can a therapist do?
A therapist can help clients process challenging feelings and emotions. A therapist also helps guide clients to become confident and vibrant and handle stress in a healthier way.
Does anyone cry in front of you?
During sessions, it’s common to speak of difficult experiences and situations. Past clients have cried during session, and they have reported an improved mood after expressing their feelings.
How long will I be in therapy?
Therapy will look different for every person. Clients could be in therapy for three months or over a year. We will review your progress and therapy goals often to make sure you are receiving the best treatment.
What did you think of Game of Thrones Season 8?
HBO should have contacted me about how to end that amazing series because I would have really liked Jon Snow to become King and take the Iron Throne.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy spending quality time with my family, working out (Cross Fit and yoga), watching live music, reading good books, binge-watching TV shows, watching movies, going to Disneyland, and trying new local restaurants.
Who is your favorite Disney character?

As a kid, I watched The Little Mermaid every day for about three years. Ariel has the coolest red hair and the cutest sea friends.

What are some of your favorite movies?

Some of my favorite movies are The Shawshank Redemption, Good Will Hunting, Almost Famous, La Bamba, A Bronx Tale, and West Side Story.

Who is the best guitarist of all time?
This is a hard question to answer because I admire all musicians for their amazing talents and skills. However, I think Tom Morello has a singularly unique sound and some of the most challenging finger movements on the strings.
Do you think The Smiths will ever reunite?
I would be the happiest fan if I were able to see Morrissey and Johnny Marr play together. However, it probably won’t happen because of the strong personalities and dislikes between the two artists.
What is your favorite book of all time?

When I was in high school, I read The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas, and it’s been my favorite book since.

How do you feel about putting pineapple on pizza?
I truly enjoy it – it adds great flavor! If you disagree, that’s 100% ok. I’m still open to working with any type of pizza lovers out there.