Melissa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified by Psychology Today Verified by Psychology Today
Let's Connect (916) 398-3430

You may feel stuck in cycles of self-criticism, weighed down by anxiety, depression, or perfectionism. These struggles can leave you exhausted, isolated, and unsure of how to move forward. With over 15 years of experience using Expressive Arts Therapy, I help clients loosen old patterns, calm overwhelming emotions, and reconnect with resilience and creativity. Through movement, imagery, writing, and play—combined with evidence-based practices—you can discover new ways of being and restore a sense of possibility.
With over a decade at UCSF, I have extensive experience using and teaching DBT to support clients with acute mood symptoms, suicidality, and psychosis. In my current practice, I integrate Expressive Arts Therapy with Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help adults navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and perfectionism.
It takes courage to seek support, especially when loved ones can’t show up as we need. Therapy doesn’t have to be heavy. I blend Expressive Arts Therapy with CBT, mindfulness, and relational work in a warm, creative, practical style. Together, let’s find your flow and reconnect with strength, curiosity, and joy.
Call or Email Melissa Craven now for a free 15 minute consultation - (916) 398-3430
Let's Connect (916) 398-3430

Finances
Fees
- Individual Sessions $185
Payment Methods
Paypal, Venmo, Zelle
Melissa Craven
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Call or Email me for a free 15 minute consultation now - (916) 398-3430
Qualifications
- Verified by Psychology Today Licensed by State of California / 52019 Melissa Craven
- In Practice for 18 years
- Attended California Institute of Integral Studies, MA, Counseling Psychology, Graduated 2008
- Membership with International Expressive Arts Therapy Association
- Certificate from Postpartum Support International
Education and Years In Practice
Additional Credentials
Melissa Craven
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Call or Email me for a free 15 minute consultation now - (916) 398-3430
Specialties and Expertise
Top Specialties
- Insomnia
Expertise
- Anxiety
- Body Image
- Mood Disorders
- Open Relationships Non-Monogamy
- Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
- Sex-Positive, Kink Allied
- Suicidal Ideation
Melissa Craven
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Call or Email me for a free 15 minute consultation now - (916) 398-3430
Client Focus
Age
Adults ,
Elders (65+)
Participants
Individuals ,
Group
Communities
Bisexual Allied ,
Gay Allied ,
Lesbian Allied ,
Non-Binary Allied ,
Queer Allied ,
Racial Justice Allied
Age
Adults ,
Elders (65+)
Participants
Individuals ,
Group
Communities
Bisexual Allied ,
Gay Allied ,
Lesbian Allied ,
Non-Binary Allied ,
Queer Allied ,
Racial Justice Allied
Treatment Approach
Types of Therapy
- Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
- Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
- Expressive Arts
- Internal Family Systems (IFS)
- Trauma Focused
Melissa Craven
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Call or Email me for a free 15 minute consultation now - (916) 398-3430
Groups
Online Expressive Arts Therapy Group
Overwhelming anxiety or depression getting you stuck? The arts present fresh perspectives and enhance our capacity for change. In this 2-hour expressive arts group, we investigate entrenched patterns with a creative stance. Each week, we attune to the senses and expand our understanding through improv, drawing, music, poetry, or storytelling. No artistic skills necessary! Three ways this group will help you -See that you are not alone: Learn how to slow down in your responses to stress. -Effect change in your relationships, work, and hobbies. -Engage with a healing community: Connect with creative wisdom to live your best life.
Expertise
Anxiety
Depression
Types of Therapy
Art Therapy
Age
Adults
Session Cost
$150+
Location
San Francisco, CA 94115
Email Melissa Craven about this group or call - (916) 398-3430
Location
Nearby Areas
Counties
Melissa Craven
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Call for a free consultation now - (916) 398-3430