"Whether a client experiences an ‘ah-ha’ moment executing a new movement, or success reaching a life goal, there is nothing more gratifying than watching someone grow and change before my eyes.”
ASSISTING OTHERS CHANGE MOVEMENT, STRENGTH & ENERGY
In 2008, Melissa decided that Pilates principles could help the individuals she counseled and began training to become a Pilates instructor with Pilates Education Group. She observed and student taught under Kevin Bowen for two years and currently teaches at Pilates Miami Shores, owned by Anna Alvarez.
"Teaching Pilates has been incredibly eye opening to the power we posses to create change in ourselves. As an instructor I can see changes in how a client is able to move (range of motion, gracefulness, coordination) and balance, the increased awareness of their body… I get to see the progress so clearly. I am amazed almost everyday.”
ASSISTING OTHERS CHANGE ATTITUDES, BEHAVIORS, & CIRCUMSTANCES
In 1997, Melissa received the Prudential Spirit of Community Achievement Award for three years of community service at an elderly home and a homeless shelter in Connecticut . During this experience she quickly became aware that the only constant in life is change. From 1999 through 2002, Melissa worked encouraging youth to use this constant to their advantage. She worked in Western Massachusetts at a residential facility for adolescents learning to change how they express anger and as the live-in manager/mentor at a transitional living program for young adults "aging out" of the foster care system.
Melissa also worked with individuals diagnosed with Schizophrenia at different stages of recovery including hospitalization and/or jail, residential treatment and independent living. For three years Melissa worked with adolescents and adults who suffer from dependency on drugs/alcohol and poor mental health. She completed much of this work at the Juvenile Detention Center and Village South, here in Miami . In 2009, Melissa branched out into private practice where she continues to provide coaching and counseling to individuals interested in personal growth and self improvement. Reasons individuals seek her help include sad mood, anxiety, stress, relapse prevention, indecision, self-exploration, life transitions and/or a desire to make changes within or outside of self.
“First, decide where you want to go. Next, GO!”
CHANGE IN SELF
"It all seems natural to me because of my upbringing. Some of my earliest memories are of listening to child meditation tapes. As I grew into an adult, I instinctually used mindfulness to ground myself. I remember soothing myself by looking at the mountains and trees, remembering just how small I am in the big picture and appreciating the beauty before me. Bits and pieces such as this stayed with me during my personal struggles. My struggles have not been insignificant, although I recognize that many others’ struggles have been and remain more challenging than my own.
About 5 years ago, principles of mindfulness kept reappearing in my life in the form of books, people and surroundings. Around the same time other key components of whole body health (Pilates and balanced nutrition) kept reappearing in my life as well. Becoming reacquainted, and more intimately involved, with these ideas and behaviors of holistic health, they became a priority in my life. I rediscovered and expanded the ideals instilled in me as a child and began to share them with all who would listen. Right now I feel as balanced, happy and healthy as one could hope. And it seems so natural to pass it on… "