Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Melicoff
Hi Maria, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey began in Mexico, where I was fortunate to grow up in a loving and supportive family that encouraged personal, professional, and spiritual growth. Surrounded by a large extended family and forging deep friendships during my school years, I absorbed valuable lessons about community and connection from my parents, who exemplified dedication to helping others.
Moving to the U.S. for further education was a significant transition, but with the support of my sister Tina, who was already thriving as a pediatrician, I adjusted to a new culture and language. Inspired by her success, I pursued my own path in psychology, completing my master’s degree at Our Lady of the Lake University in Texas.
My career took shape through opportunities in various non-profit organizations in Houston, where I focused on serving the Latinx community. Working alongside passionate colleagues and witnessing the resilience of the families I served was profoundly impactful. These experiences reinforced my desire to open a private practice, where I could continue to support individuals and families on a more personal level.
Discovering play therapy became a turning point in my career. I found immense fulfillment in helping children and teenagers find healing and empowerment through play, providing a safe environment for them to express and process their experiences.
Today, as I continue to grow Hummingbird Counseling and Consulting, I am excited about the future and the opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives of those I work with. Each step of my journey has been guided by a deep-seated belief in the importance of connection, community, and the transformative power of compassion and therapy.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Embarking on new ventures can indeed be intimidating, but the sense of fulfillment upon achieving success is always deeply gratifying. I’ve been fortunate to have supportive friends and mentors who have stood by me throughout my career journey. One of the most demanding aspects for me has been the geographical distance from my family. Nonetheless, I am committed to nurturing strong connections with them and making regular visits to maintain our bond.
We’ve been impressed with Hummingbird Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Hummingbird Counseling and Consulting, our mission is to create a nurturing and safe environment where individuals, families, and groups can embark on their journey towards wellness and personal growth. We specialize in delivering personalized care that meets the specific needs of each client, with a particular focus on play therapy for children and adolescents within the Latinx community. This therapeutic approach allows young individuals to naturally express themselves and overcome challenges in a supportive and empowering environment.
Our services are available in both English and Spanish to ensure that language is never a barrier to receiving the essential support and guidance you need. Whether you prefer traditional counseling, creative expression through art and play therapy, or the dynamics of group sessions, we customize our approach to suit your preferences and unique circumstances.
At Hummingbird Counseling and Consulting, we are dedicated to accompanying you throughout your journey. Our goal is to foster healing, encourage personal growth, and enhance overall well-being. We emphasize a holistic approach that recognizes the importance of family dynamics and community support in achieving lasting positive outcomes.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
For more than two decades, Houston has been my home, and I’ve grown to cherish its diversity, wide range of restaurants, and vibrant cultural scene. Exploring the Museum of Fine Arts, relaxing in various parks (especially Hermann Park), joining outdoor Zumba classes, biking along Allen Parkway, attending concerts, and immersing myself in countless activities have all been highlights of living here. While I have some reservations about the heat and traffic, I deeply appreciate everything else Houston has to offer, particularly its lush green landscapes and rainy weather.
Pricing:
- free 15 minute consultation
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hummingbirdhouston.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hummingbirdhouston
- Other: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/maria-melicoff-houston-tx/1081795
