Soul Connection Astrology Intensive
“I reached out to Melissa when I was going through another terrible breakup. This was the last straw. I had been going through bad relationships for years and I was finally ready to start looking for the root cause. I wanted to find out why I was attracting the same types of relationships. I had never done Astrology work with someone before, but It’s always nice to know what the root problem is and having this astrological knowledge helped me realize that there is so much more to my life than what I see. It actually opened the door to me exploring astrology further. I loved the way we started each session – getting grounded with deep breathing. It helped me gain perspective and composure. Along with the way the sessions started, I also found that the way Melissa was able to re-word my limiting beliefs so I can see them from another vantage point to be extraordinary. I still go to many of those insights she shared with me.
Even though we were together for a short time I have made some massive changes. Lasting changes. I started to see how important self love is. I started to see myself as a powerful beautiful woman who can create her own life just as she wants it to be. I started focusing on myself and watching how I think and what I say about myself. It has made all the difference. Putting myself first has made all the difference. The biggest shift started when I realized that giving from a place of abundance is true giving and will attract more of the same into my life. I have always wondered why I was so giving and yet was taken advantage of. It turns out I was not truly giving but rather sacrificing myself in desperation to please others. When I started to put my needs first I started to give with joy and from an overflow. It has changed everything in my life! Working with Melissa is the best investment you can make in yourself.” ~ S.T., Chicago, IL
“I started working with Melissa in the summer of 2018 during a pivotal time in my life. My intuition was telling me one thing and my brain (along with family/friends) was telling me something different. I was afraid to follow my gut because it was so unfamiliar, so in my head I’d reason and justify and plan what direction my life should go because that seemed like the reasonable/responsible thing to do. After talking with my cousin about things, she highly recommended I reach out to Melissa. I did, and it was the best decision I’ve ever made.
Melissa told me things about my personality and life that resonated so deeply, and helped me to see so very clearly what I wanted, how I wanted to live, and the direction I wanted my life to go. Her guidance gave me the courage and confidence to never ever second guess my intuition and to always follow my gut as this is the voice of my North node [soul’s longing in this lifetime]. During our session, Melissa told me that I’m “…here to flow more with life and understand that it’s more about surrendering to what life brings you..” and since working together, I’ve totally uprooted my life. I’ve surrendered to the universe and am living exactly how I want. Because of her advice, I totally trust that the universe has my back and all the abundance already out there for me to go after.
Melissa’s knowledge, openness, and warmth is unparalleled. She has such a warm, inviting and open heart and energy. She’s so easy to talk to, and her passion and willingness to help is so inspiring to witness. Without a doubt, I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone and everyone seeking any sort of guidance!! Thank you, Thank you for coming into my life and helping me the way you did!!” ~ Amanda L., New York, NY
“Melissa is an incredible listener. She has the power to create a situation that allowed me to be honest with myself, without judgement. She offers empathy and an opportunity for you to see yourself with compassion and understanding. Her intuition is uncanny and ability to read astrological charts was truly like I was holding a mirror to my inner self.
I was feeling pretty overwhelmed with a lot of major life changes at the time of my Soul-Purpose Astrology Session. I was just a few months in at a new job that I knew wasn’t a good fit for me. I was struggling to finish a graduate certificate program and trying to find some answers. Though at the center, I think I was trying to rediscover myself. Somehow I felt that I had lost or perhaps, put aside some of the true pieces of my identity. I knew I wasn’t quite happy, but was also feeling lost.
Melissa was able to clearly define personality traits and characteristics about me that I hadn’t even realized. Her insight gave voice to many of my buried thoughts and emotions. She gave me the power to recognize why I was feeling a certain way, and the ability to see my feelings and frustrations as a result of circumstances, rather than a fault or flaw within myself. I was able to step away from guilt and see that there was a clear reason for my emotions.
Melissa’s questions made me think about myself in other situations and experiences, and drawing from those reflections, I was able to remember when I felt the most confident, powerful and comfortable as myself. Having the ability to reflect on those times, and then to envision myself as that individual in my current situation really helped me “revisit” and become that person that I had been.
Her willingness to listen and ability to offer love and healing to my previous self gave me the ability to do the same.” ~ Jess P., Wisconsin
“After my Soul-Purpose session with Melissa, I wrote in my journal:
‘All the perceived ‘struggles’ and challenges that I make wrong are actually who I am, are my life path, are my purpose and the reason I am here and the amazing-ness that I have to give. In this space there is nothing wrong. This is me, this is my path, this is the adventure of my life.’
At the time of working with Melissa, I had been feeling very paralyzed with a push-pull dynamic of surrender and control in my life. I wanted to surrender to accept love, spontaneity and creativity in my life, yet I did not want to back down from having control over my own choices, autonomy and standing up for what felt authentic to me in relationships. Because of messages I had received in the past, and some recent feedback from professionals who were supporting me, I could only see this through a lens of creating my own suffering and loneliness through my lack of clarity in relationships and decisions. Needless to say, I felt very troubled and lonely as I watched myself in this dynamic, and felt powerless to change it.
During my session with Melissa, it was laid out to me so clearly that this very push-pull dynamic of wanting to be in control, and also learning how to surrender is actually not a problem at all, but the journey of my life path itself. It is not a “problem” to be solved, a deficit, or something I am doing wrong, as other mentors had told me. Rather, it is something I am doing right, and in fact, the reason and purpose that I am here. I am growing out of a past-life role of being like a CEO or army general, and into a creative goddess full of creation, individuality, taking risks, and child-like energy. The session allowed me to shift my paradigm from “this is what is wrong with me” to “wow! this is an incredible journey that I am on, and this is why I am here!” I felt such a freedom and excitement in being supported in seeing this, to accept and celebrate the dynamics of my life rather than pushing them away or putting myself down. This new way of looking at myself and my life journey literally set me free from the feeling of being paralyzed and the self-blame. Not only that, but I could see how my whole life journey has been leading up to this point, and how the characteristics of taking risks and getting messy, giving love with abandon, and accepting others in their vulnerability are things that I have been growing into since I was a child.
Melissa and I talked about practical action steps of how to step more and more into those things which bring me joy, excitement, energy and connection. I had barely started implementing the ideas we talked about, when circumstances in my life popped out of nowhere that led me in that very direction. Before I knew it, I was involved in supporting a close friend in a way that allowed me to use my gifts of connection, creativity, and empathy. I felt like a different person, yet the person that deep inside I always knew myself to be. I believe that putting on a new lens with which to see myself and my life empowered me to take big steps to embrace the type of living that I dreamed of.
One of the things I most appreciate about Melissa is her emphasis on looking at everything from the standpoint of what is right rather than what is wrong. With her, there is no need to pathologize, criticize or put down anything in one’s life. It is all right and perfect. Looking at it in this way is truly looking at oneself and life with unconditional love and one-ness rather than duality. I like how she says to choose to do a session with her “never because I need it, only because I want it.” This type of support, based in the knowledge that all is right with me, was a new way of living that I was so ready to embrace. I kept feeling uncomfortable with other advice that I was being given, and I felt Melissa’s strong and loving model of accepting and celebrating all parts of one-self was a beacon on the road home to what I knew I was looking for. I feel that the paradigm she embodies is an important example for other mentors and people in the healing profession. I would encourage people who are looking for support to keep searching and trusting inwardly to find that which feels deeply wise and true for you every step of the way.
I also feel that Melissa embodies a spirit of generosity and abundance in her work, which encouraged me to feel that same abundance in my own life and give graciously for the love of giving. When I think of her, I think of knowing that the blessings I have are overflowing and that I am never lacking in love and resources for everything that I need. I think of allowing things to come to me, rather than worrying about when they will come or where they will come from. Also, that giving is receiving, and receiving is giving! Thank you Melissa for the strength, courage and unconditional love that you choose in your life. Thank you for embracing the call to share your gifts so that all beings may more fully know love, unity and freedom! <3 ” ~ Therese M., Madison, WI
“Sharing space and time with Melissa, has been of such precious value to me at this stage in my life, like a rich jewel of insight and love and potential that I continue to carry with me. Without question, Melissa’s wisdom and profound intuitive insights and her loving kind support runs through every thing she offers in her work.
I committed to the Soul – Purpose Astrology Intensive with Melissa, from a deep seated interest to “get my chart done” and to understand a little more about who I am and why patterns of being and doing run through my life. I wasn’t aware that the journey together would me so much more profound and richer that I had imagined.
The chart itself is something of a phemomena and is a work of art and map of incredible skill and astrological understanding. And with Melissa’s care and explanation, I see that it acts as a sort of blueprint to the Self, the energies that shape the individual and lessons and insights that are available for learning, awareness and growth – it is remarkable. But it is also just a beginning for all the potential for change and healing that continues to present itself on a daily basis. Thanks to Melissa, I have a richer perspective of myself within the context of the lessons I need to be learning for my own healing and growth. I am also able to stand back and see the action and reactions of myself and others, from a place of deep “need” and compassion first, which gives understanding and a potential for change and more loving communication and healing.
Through the whole process, from the initial consultation to the next session and the deep delving into the chart, through the life experiences that showed up in between to illuminate the journey, through to the final more conclusive session that gives the lens of deep compassion and understanding to the Self, Melissa gives of her time with generous effortlessness to lend support and wisdom. She joyfully encourages, listens and beautifully “holds” the space with tenderness and strength and insight and compassion.
Working with Melissa can only act as a blessing of the deepest heart value to the Self. It is a precious and tender commitment to one’s own being that in turn can raise the heart and healing forces of our planet. Melissa in this way is a Warrior of Truth and Defender of everyone’s birth right to live as empowered and authentic beings of Love and Light. I simply love her.” Clair H., Bristol, UK
“At the time I hired Melissa, I was seeking influences that might guide my direction with greater clarity. Working with Melissa lead me to a feeling of being seen, which resulted in a shift to self intuitiveness, a sense of personal empowerment. Issues brought up in my reading were issues I had secretly been conscious of but would have never spoken them out loud. It was a gentle reminder of past lives & my relationship, in the Here & Now, to them. Right off the bat, I have to say, one of my favorite parts of working with Melissa is her gentleness. She is subtle like a sister, like a tender friend guiding me toward aspects of myself that are clear enough to be seen by an educated, intuitive other. Yet, easily overlooked by my Self. The sense of calm, steadiness, the sense of Truth being released as she shared her insights was comforting & validating to my experience as a whole. My experience of her was one of Truth, a knowing that what she was sharing was Truth. She have an affinity for trust & comfort that cannot be denied. Melissa is authentic. She comes from a place of spiritual innocence… not guilelessness, but Truth in its purest form. her eagerness to spread comfort & peace is unwavering & inspiring. She has continued to keep up with me after a couple of years after 1 reading. She has NEVER not been there for me.” ~ Zoe Jones, Professional Photographer, Chattanooga, Tennessee
“I was experiencing a lot of resistance over the growth of my business and the clearing of struggles within some important relationships. My session with Melissa brought up a lot of uncomfortable truths, but her insightful and compassionate guidance helped me see things in a way that allowed me to be more open to different possibilities, and helped me begin to make major progress in my work and personal life. My favorite part about working with Melissa is that she is able to identify things that are a huge part of my life, but that I was unable to see from my own shoes. She did this in such a loving way that even though she confronted some of my demons, I always felt cared for and nurtured, and as if I was “good” the way I am. The works she does had a much bigger impact on me than I ever imagined before our session, and I think it is so effective because of her vast knowledge and the authentic connection she creates with those she is serving. Since working with Melissa, I’m now able to notice when I am sabotaging my own interests and to choose a new path.” ~ Sabrina Bodden
“The impact of a session with Melissa really can’t be measured in the hours, days, or even weeks immediately following your experience. I believe it can only truly be understood with the perspective that a little bit of time and distance can afford.
In my session with Melissa, I feverishly took notes as I was delighted, overcome, and then astonished at the series of “ah ha” moments that showered forth. It was exhilarating, both emotionally and intellectually, because it was as if the inner topography of my psyche and/or soul was being displayed for the first time, clear and intelligible. My true purpose, the reasons behind when and why I feel motivated or lethargic, the narrative of how I relate to others in close and intimate relationships was all laid bare…. and startlingly accurate. My past actions and feelings… made sense in the greater context of who I was, and am, and am striving to be.
As I said before I took lots of notes.
Which brings me back to how I first started this review… the potential for Melissa’s gifts to impact your life are, and can be immediate, because you now see the map, your map, and can make decisions, new decisions, confidently from your core. And yet to measure her impact… while it is felt in the moment, is best understood in hindsight and continuous self-reflection.
And that for me has been the greatest gifts–her words and insight, if captured, can be returned to often. I can look back, reconnect with my soul’s true purpose, and remember what I’m on here on earth to do, for myself, and for others. And that for me brings with it a relaxed and peaceful confidence to all that I strive to do.” ~ David Bugge
“In my work with Melissa, I finally gave myself permission to put MY needs first. And the shocking (but perfectly simple) realization that when I DO put my needs first, this not only is best for me…but everyone around me and THE WORLD ITSELF! I am now aware of interacting with my ex-husband, not trying to please him or make his life easier…but challenging him to create his own life. Melissa so profoundly made me aware that we are all here to challenge and help each other step into ourselves. Trying to fix my ex’s problems was not only making me unhappy, it was also stunting his possible growth into the person he is supposed to be. Consider my Mind BLOWN!
I feel so joyful, even when dealing with negative situations now, because I feel secure in the path I am currently on and the choices I am making. Our meeting marked a turning point in my life, Melissa. I truly am SO THANKFUL. I feel like you stoked that fire and started it blazing. Thank you for your guidance on this journey. I am tearful with gratitude.” Michelle, R.
“I loved the genuine approach Melissa had in helping me with my journey through the astrology reading to becoming the best Queen I can be. I also loved how relatable she was. It was almost as if we had known each other or met each other a long time ago! She really helped me gently discover my truths and face them in a way that will catapult me into true healing. I felt so warm and loved after the call! I think that her spirit of patience, compassion and understanding is what makes her work so effective. Even over the phone, I could feel that she truly wanted to help me discover me a little deeper, all the while reminding me of the great attributes I do have that I may seem to overlook at times.
I am now able to allow myself to be more cognizant of my habits and tendencies. I am now able to delve a little deeper into my self-conscious to recover those repressed parts of myself and start to heal myself on a more deeper level than before. Because of my conference call with Melissa, I can constantly stay aware of my WHOLE being and truly pay attention to myself.” ~ Tashia A.
Sacred Self-Love Mentorship Program (6 months or more one-on-one)
“When I first me Melissa, I was in a deep, dark place which was all too familiar. I used phrases such as ‘I am just waiting to die.’ I had little to no hope for being happy for the rest of my life. I had been divorced for 10 years after a 30-year marriage and had tried several relationships with devastating results. All the rejection from others left me lonely, yearning and just plain miserable with myself. I believed the best I could do was to hold on to what I had…a fear-based existence of failure, self-loathing and cynicism. [I believed that] there was something wrong with me!
Those who lovingly supported me throughout my many relationships just wanted me to be happy, to accept my lot in life, to find the right person, to make the most of what I had. It wasn’t enough for me.
A person very dear to my heart, my daughter, recommended Melissa. She believed this was my way out, finally! I hoped this might be the breakthrough. Nonetheless, I expressed skepticism…would it work? Was I worth it? What if I couldn’t do it? What then? My last hope for happiness was on my doorstep.
In our first session I asked, ‘What is this longing?’ Through my sessions with Melissa it soon became clear. I needed to embrace myself, to love myself, to respect myself, to connect with my true essence, to know my own power and my needs in order to have the life I so desired and before I could find the relationship I deserved.
Right from the start Melissa focused on me. She asked the questions that opened my eyes to the potential I had only imagined before. She got right to the core of who I was and how she could help me.
This was accomplished in a myriad of ways that even I did not see. Until session after session I could feel myself growing, I was loving myself and I was motivated to find ways to meet my needs. Even before that Melissa helped me to identify my needs. In the past I would say I didn’t know what my needs/wants/desires were because I was trying to satisfy others’ needs rather than focusing on mine.
The many tools and resources Melissa utilized to bring me into my essence were over-the-top effective. From the meditation at the beginning of each session for setting intentions, to the insightful books, videos, frameworks and suggestions for next steps were all highly informative and revealing. I couldn’t wait to learn and practice the techniques in my life. It was as if she knew me better than I knew myself. This is what makes Melissa so effective; her intuition, experience and knowledge provide her with insights that are life changing.
Melissa’s astrology based insight was one of the greatest strengths she brought to the process. I have had some exposure to my astrological sign and how it has shaped me. However, Melissa expanded on my understanding, which allowed me to put my past actions into perspective and focus on what I wanted in my life. Her explanation of my chart also has been a large part of my deepening spirituality and connection to a larger purpose and meaning.
The shifts/changes I have experienced as a result of our time together are countless. I now cherish my life as worth living. I have abundance in all aspects of my life. I believe that I am the most important person in my life. I am optimistic. I am in a committed, secure, loving relationship, which I now have the tools to strengthen and grow. I am practicing my new way of thinking in all relationships in my life. I know that I can choose to pursue and have anything that I want. I am learning to know what does and does not give me pleasure so that I can make decisions based on my feelings and desires.
Of the many tools/perspectives I have learned, the most effective that I use daily is the needs identification. When I am confused, agitated, stressed I can now stop and ask myself, ‘What is this feeling? Why am I having this reaction? What action can I take that will help me meet this need?’ This works every time and I have the knowledge and a process to implement a change in behavior.
I have learned to put my own needs first in relationship to others. This is a complete shift in processing my feelings and behaviors. In addition Melissa introduced the Science of Mind concept to me. Although I have ‘done’ meditation for years, I was doing it for reasons that were not quite meeting my needs. I now know that I am ‘It’ and ‘It’ is me. I have a connection to the abundant divine universe that is so comforting!
I now have belief in myself. I finally understand that I can have whatever I want. I finally believe it. The most precious thing lives within me. It turns out that others have always seen it in me. I just needed to believe it. I believe.
If you want a radical change in your thinking or just want to improve on everything that is already working in your life, Melissa can help you!
This is true. This is real. Go for it. You won’t regret it!” ~ Client in Madison, WI
“When I first reached out to you I was feeling like a lot was shifting but I was too scared to follow along and definitely resisting change. I was realizing that I would circle on the same patterns especially in romantic relationships and my careers. I would accommodate myself to others and completely dismiss my feelings and needs. My relationship with my then boyfriend was falling apart and a bit after I reached out it ended abruptly. I found myself completely depleted and confused but having a very clear idea that something had to change. My favorite part about working with you was the space created for openness and vulnerability that I was constantly encouraged to dig deeper and seek inside of me rather than the other way around. At times I was nervous and uncomfortable but that discomfort has paid off now! I loved how through all my home plays I got clear about my core values, my feelings, and needs, understanding anger, setting boundaries, being bold and also self-acceptance and compassion. Your work as an Astrologer opened the door to start the journey of self-discovery and understanding what needed to improve, I loved how we could always revisit my chart and see what was coming up which was always aligned with my feelings, patterns, emotions, etc. One of the biggest shifts I’ve noticed since we worked together is that I no longer tippy toe to accommodate others and I’m more willing to speak my truth and say NO boldly without worrying about making others uncomfortable. I’ve been able to speak up about what I want in my relationships and say NO to anything else. Saying NO and staying in my truth has been a big shift for me in all aspects of my life. I now see my power, I embrace it, I feel more comfortable and confident in myself and my gifts and I can be bold without seeking approval or validation. As far as tools, journaling has been a big part of my growth on this journey, connecting to my feelings and needs, breathing, exploring my birth chart, and so much more than I take with me and have become part of my daily rituals to stay connected to myself. For example, the work of Bryon Katie is something that you introduced me to and I go back to it whenever I need some clarity and catching myself seeking validation or approval.
To anyone considering hiring you I would say I would recommend it 100%! You will have the most compassionate, no bullshit, kind, nurturing and bold coach by your side. Her astrology work is so powerful and the tools and gifts she will share are powerful tools you will have with you forever. Get ready to shake things up and be rewarded with clarity and a deeper connection to yourself!
I first want to thank you for your support through this journey, for pushing me and encouraging me to shake things up. I know that self-discovery and self-love is an ongoing journey but I now feel so good about myself and confident of my value and gifts. I want to celebrate how I’ve chosen to be bold and left fear behind and taken courageous leaps to ask for what I want, set boundaries and stay in line with my truth and core values.” Client in New York, New York
“When I first found you, I had come to the realization that I didn’t know how to love myself. I had spent years trying to fix myself, including two years of seeing a traditional therapist. I was taught how to rationalize my thoughts in order to ease the intense negative emotions I felt at the time, and I was grateful as I felt better able to function in my day-to-day life. But, no matter how much I rationalized and temporarily overcame those emotions, they always returned. Nothing had changed. I remember one day being in complete emotional distress thinking that I had become legitimately crazy. There were so many voices in my head telling me how I should feel and think in a given moment, but which voice was the right one?! I thought, maybe I needed medication? Therapy alone hadn’t fixed me, in fact I felt more confused than ever! I felt so defeated. I was so upset with myself – why couldn’t I just get it right?! What was wrong with me?!
But, thankfully there was still a part of me that recognized that I couldn’t keep beating myself up over my apparent failures. I knew that wasn’t the answer. I saw just how little I had grown to think of myself, and I decided I needed to learn how to love myself instead. And that is when I found you! I read some of your blog posts and tried out one of your journaling exercises. Your teachings were so revolutionary to me that, in spite of my practical nature telling me “oh, this could be a huge waste of time and money that you just don’t have right now, and how can you trust some random person you found on the internet?” – I couldn’t help but continue to pursue more and more of what you had to offer. The saying goes to get something you’ve never had you have to do something you’ve never done; your message was definitely one I had never heard, so I hoped this was the answer I had been looking for. I just wanted to finally learn how to be happy with my life and with myself.
Working with you definitely required that I challenge myself, so I admit it wasn’t always easy. There were multiple sessions where I felt so emotionally drained afterward, but I would compare it to the pain of soreness after you exercise. It doesn’t necessarily feel good, but you know it’s worth it because it’s a sign you’re growing better and stronger.
Now, to focus on the changes I’ve experienced from our time together…wow. So, so many. I can now say that I am a recovering people-pleaser! While it’s still a work in progress, I’ve grown to allow myself to choose myself over others, trusting that my happiness will benefit them and give them the freedom to choose themselves in their own lives. I no longer run from my negative emotions. While the instinct has been to push them down and rid myself of them immediately, I am now able to see that I should take a step back and choose to explore them instead. I understand that those negative emotions are a sign that I need to examine what needs are not being met in that moment. All it takes is making a choice to meet that need and the negative feeling effortlessly goes away – no more rationalizing it or disqualifying it! Not only that, but I’ve begun to recognize this in others. Knowing that others’ expressions toward me are their own (likely sub-conscious) efforts to meet needs allows me to no longer take their negative emotions or criticisms personally. Instead I am able to remain confident in myself and examine what can be done to help them meet their needs from a more objective perspective. But, perhaps the greatest lesson that I’ve learned is that I am not a victim of my circumstances. Oh my gosh. This is one that we talked about multiple times, but I don’t think it really hit home until I finally let myself live in those negative feelings of discomfort and pain that come with seeing yourself as a victim. It is truly so debilitating. For me I can see now how that has been such a huge roadblock on my self-love journey. Victimizing myself robs me of my power, gives it to everything and everyone else that ever hurt me, and keeps me stuck. It’s that lingering veil of pain and sadness that has been telling me I’ll never feel better. Choosing to let go of that mentality has been one of the greatest acts of self-love that I have ever done. What greater gift can you give yourself than to stop hurting yourself and restore your power?! When you no longer feel you’re at the mercy of someone or something else, you have the freedom to pursue anything and everything you’ve ever wanted: the lifestyle you want, the people you want in your life, the love you want to receive. I now feel like it is possible to create the life that I desire and to receive love untarnished by past pain.
To anyone who may be considering hiring you as their coach, I say DO IT 100%!! To those who have tried traditional counseling and been left wanting: Melissa’s coaching is such a refreshing and compassionate approach to examining your emotions. Instead of rationalizing and discrediting negative emotions, she teaches how to accept those emotions in such a forgiving way. You will learn to embrace them as precious signs leading you to what you truly need in your life. To those that may not believe in or understand astrology: don’t see that as a roadblock. Melissa’s coaching is so multi-faceted and grounded in personal truth that it is effective in its own right. If you do believe in astrology then it will be just that much more powerful and insightful for you! And finally to those that may hesitate for financial reasons: even if it means making uncomfortable financial decisions to do so, know that this work is priceless. If you feel called to work with her then take a chance and talk with her. From the start I guarantee she will begin awakening your inner power to reveal how to create this opportunity for yourself. Investing your time and money in this process is one of the greatest gifts you can ever give to yourself.
I am so grateful for you and your sharing of yourself to others! Thank you, Melissa!!” Client in Greensboro, North Carolina
“When I first began working with you, I was experiencing low self-esteem, feeling adrift and without guidance. I was dissatisfied with the city, always searching for more and feeling like I never have enough – money, community, time, nature, etc. I was not mindful with what I was putting in my body; I was drinking and eating to excess. FEAR dominated my life: I felt guilt and regret a lot of the time. I lived in victim consciousness. My goal was to be more open. Going into our work together, I didn’t know exactly what I needed but I knew I needed to make a change. My idea to be more open came out in my first in-person session – my body knew, even if my mind didn’t. When I spoke of my desire to be open, I knew it was true, and it’s stayed true the whole time we’ve worked together. In every life area we worked on, I came back to the idea of being open. I’ve blossomed as a result.
Your coaching is so effective because I know you deeply care about guiding me to be the most vibrant and fulfilled version of myself and you did not let me give up on myself. I appreciated your ability to pick through my stories to get to the root of what’s bothering me. I love the advice you give on how to take action to improve and enhance my life experiences. The tools you gave me are so useful—The practices you gave me to reframe my experience and envision the life I want in the NOW has everything coming my way as a result; the tools you gave me to embody and move through grief/anger/pleasure has made me feel good in my body, which keeps my mind from spiraling out with negative thoughts. I find you such an inspiration – you live your life as a vibrant woman and just being in your presence I feel it and want to take it with me. Being with you inspires me to light up within myself. Knowing you’ve come from a place of struggle and heartbreak makes you relatable and has helped me to know I can make it to where you are through my own journey.
The most important thing I’ve learned to do throughout this journey is TRUST – in other people, in life’s plan, in myself. This is what opened me up. I am now open – I look up, I engage with people around me, I have fun and keep a playful mindset. The biggest shift happened as a result of my injury. I appreciate life and my ability to move my body in a way I never did before. I learned lessons from pain instead of thinking of myself as a victim of a terrible experience.Romance was not previously available to me. Very few romantic prospects came my way since moving to NYC because I was closed off to the possibility of meeting someone. I had to work on myself and become a light to attract men to me. It was not happening because my light had burned down, was maybe even extinguished for a time. My sensual appetite was non-existent. I did not feel good in my body and certainly did not self-pleasure or move it just to feel sexy. I feel turned on at all times now, just thinking of the possibility of sensual connection with men in my life and from how good I feel and look in my body. I now notice my tendency towards victim consciousness. I’m developing the creator within me. I danced for the first time in a group basically sober feeling sexy and in no way self-conscious and I loved every second of it. Feeling this good in my body was not possible before.
In my second session in January, one of my home play assignments was to allow for ease, play and trust – to operate in my life with curiosity. This was NOT available to me at the time, and looking back on these notes it is amazing to see because these three feelings describe exactly my approach to life right now. I feel this so much and so appreciate how far I’ve come.
Working with you met my need for space – I didn’t know I needed distance from my family but I did and now I look at our relationship in a fresh and appreciative way. I don’t pick fights anymore. I learned I’m here to discover my power in standing on my own two feet.
What I would say to anyone considering hiring you is that I can’t recommend Melissa highly enough. Working with her is the best decision you’ll make. I needed it so much and didn’t know until I started how important shifting my perspective would be for my inner and outer growth. I would never have been able to make this much progress on my own. In one of our first calls, Melissa reminded me that every successful person needs help at some point. The difference between successful/vibrant people and not is knowing when you need help and taking the step to get it. If you’re unsure, do Tim Ferris’ fear setting exercise. The only answer will be yes. Even if you’re on a budget like I was (I honestly wasn’t sure how I was going to pay for it), Life will work out for you. When you pay attention to creating the life you desire, everything you need will come. I didn’t understand that before working with Melissa but I am proof that it works!!
When I look back at my initial core values vision from the beginning of our journey I am blown away by all that has come to pass that I specifically asked for. While I am still working on owning myself as a creative person, I know this: I create the life I want.
Thank you for everything!” Client in Brooklyn, NY
“My favorite part about working with you is that you are so honest. Like, no sugar-coating, no tiptoeing around the difficult parts honest. That was really difficult to deal with at first, but it helped me in so many ways – mostly in that I now strive in my daily life to be honest with people. To be AUTHENTICALLY me. Even when it is uncomfortable. But you are also so gentle and compassionate. You made a space for my feelings, my fears, my doubts, and you have celebrated along with me as I made discoveries along my journey.
Holy moly, there were so many changes that occurred during our months of work together! When you and I started working together, I was crying all of the time and suffering from insomnia, while working full time and taking care of an infant (basically alone). I hadn’t spoken to anyone besides a couples’ therapist about what had happened. I received a lot of bad advice. I felt extremely isolated and alone. I was immobilized by the fear of change, fear of judgement, fear of the unknown. Through our work together, I have learned to let people in and to speak my truth – and to let go of people and things that are no longer serving me. I have increased confidence. I trust myself and my gut again (which is HUGE!). I feel worthy of love. I know that I am capable of making the life I want, because I have! Because of our work together, I was able to leave a toxic relationship. The physical space I made for myself and a lot of reading helped me see the patterns I was stuck in and how they were negatively impacting my life. I was able to start speaking up for myself, to start setting boundaries, to take control of my life. I was able to move into my own place, an apartment that I could not have even imagined would be so perfect, and to create the home I was so very much longing for. I feel like a new person. I feel expanded. I feel awake and grounded. I feel solid. While I still experience daily challenges of an unhealthy coparenting relationship, I feel STRONG. I feel capable of anything. Because I know I have my own back. I won’t let myself down.
To anyone who is thinking about hiring Melissa I would say – DO IT. If you are struggling or feeling lost. Melissa is like a therapist, coach, mentor, cheerleader, and best friend all rolled into one. When I first started working with Melissa I was so concerned about what felt like a huge obligation of time and money – what if I had to reschedule at the last minute because I couldn’t find someone to watch my child? In all of our meetings I only had to reschedule one because I was sick and physically unable to talk. I have never regretted my decision to work with Melissa. And I would do it again in a heartbeat.
My dearest Melissa, THANK YOU. You have helped me change in the most wonderful and beautiful ways.” S.I.
“My favorite part of working with Melissa was how insightful I felt she was. From the first time we talked I just felt like she understood where I was coming from. I also felt like I could be very honest with her and she wouldn’t judge, just listen. I think being able to use astrology along with the coaching really helped to reinforce what she was telling me. It made me feel like the coaching was tailored for me and she wasn’t just saying things that she would say to all of her clients. It was definitely one of the things that made me hire her as my coach.
When we met, I was at a point in my life when I felt utterly lost. I had just come home from traveling and I felt trapped in my life here. I hated my job but I didn’t know what to do to fix that situation. I was sick of being single and meeting guys but not having it amount to anything. I was angry with my parents for their life choices and drama. I had all these things I needed to fix and no idea where to start. I was looking for someone to point me in the right direction and help me get back on track. I was looking for answers on what the next step to take in my life was. I was in need of someone to boost my confidence in myself again.
Through working with Melissa, I have become so much more self-confident and self-aware. I am more in tune with my body and my mind, which has helped me to make some big decisions these past four months. I feel like I have a sense of purpose and direction. She helped me to reignite my inner fire and I feel it glowing strong! My anxiety that I had about the future and my life are gone. She helped me to see that I can trust in the universe to unfold the way it should.
All of this confidence and awareness has helped me to move forward in my life. I know what I want and the most important part is that I am finally able to allow myself to have it without feeling guilty. I have learned to let go of lists and planning every detail. I need to listen to myself and let my feminine energy flow in order to feel freedom in everyday life. I have learned to be honest about what I want and to express that to people without feeling guilty about it. I have learned to stop thinking I am protecting others by not being honest. This was a huge step for me in regards to relationships.
For anyone considering hiring Melissa, I would say this: ‘If you want to find joy in your life and learn to listen to your inner yes, you need to hire Melissa! She helped give my life direction again when I was feeling more lost than I have ever been. I can’t thank her enough for helping me to reignite my inner fire and passion. Life is beautiful again.” Caitlin, San Francisco, CA
“A year ago I was experiencing a pain I didn’t really understand. I knew I wasn’t doing alright inside and really struggled to put into context or verbalize what was wrong. I talked about this wall that I knew was there and I knew was stopping me from moving forward. I was hoping talking with you would help me identify what the wall was and how to get through this period of my life.
What I enjoyed so much about your coaching is that it was personalized to my own story. As an Astrologer you could tell me what was going on in the stars the moment I first opened my eyes. I learned about my path and this wall I couldn’t understand was the imbalance of who I had always been and the pull for I am to become. Feeling like I had to be the good girl and ignore my needs was how I learned to cope in the world. Yet it was not all I am or the only story of myself. You helped me see that there was a beautiful, inspirational, amazing woman in me who needs to be heard. To be honest some days it was a real struggle to get her out. I cried so many tears on the phone and had all the negative feelings in the book. As a coach you were totally there for me, telling me the truth and offering nonjudgmental compassion and support when I needed it. For that I am forever grateful.
I feel like I get it now. For me, the answer to my happiness lies in growth. In living more independent, courageous, self-nurturing ways. Taking care of myself. I learned powerful tools, like the ego needs for safety, control and approval. How those can ring loudest in our ears when we are closest to taking the next step. Psychology like victim-villain-hero vs creator-challenger-coach. North and south nodes [in Astrology].
I think everyone could benefit from talking to you. Your intentions are so pure and you truly care about each of your clients. I truly have learned so much over the past year. I may be ending my sessions with you but that is an important part of my journey- to fly and sore with the knowledge I have learned. I am excited to fly and continue to learn, grow and honor the queen inside me. Thank you again so so much for everything!” – Client in Madison, WI
“I started seeing Melissa when I wanted to find a fulfilling, heart-centered career that resonated with me. While I was already in the helping professions, I felt like I was contorting myself to be someone else. The field was ripe with exciting options, but I was so overwhelmed and intimidated about making “the right choice” I didn’t know in which direction to go. Melissa helped me feel comfortable with and embrace the uncertainty, discover my inherent gifts, and move through those tendencies and thought patterns that were getting in my way. I also found myself compelled to work on seemingly unrelated issues–relationships–and found that our work was more than realizing certain goals, it was about learning how to tune in to myself so I could live with more balance, peace, and awareness so I could honor myself no matter what issues I was confronted with. I completed our coaching series feeling more confident, open, and hopeful for what my life was to bring. It has now been a few years since my first meeting with Melissa and can say that I have given myself the freedom to explore, and get messy… this was something that I never allowed myself to do before. In the process my career path has steadily revealed itself to me, and I am now full-heartedly pursuing work that is nurturing and enhances my spiritual development (and other’s as well).
I must say, as I have gone further down the road of healing and self-growth I have met other life coaches in gatherings and eagerly ask them about their work, because my sessions with Melissa were so transformative. I can tell you that after all those meetings I was so thankful that I got to work with MELISSA with her genuine nature, honesty, intuitiveness, listening-abilities, and lovingness. She got me, and got the whole enchilada that is me–not just the surface, operating personality, the intellectual, or social side. The spiritual/Astrological piece of our work was huge! It resonated with me and helped uncover those bits that were latent inside that I didn’t realize were there. I know I would not have gotten the substance out of our sessions that I did if that piece was missing.
I know that my work with Melissa helped me to have the self-reliance, courage, and compassion to live authentically, and highly recommend her to anyone that is looking for a heart-centered coach who looks at all aspects of who you are.“ Sarah, B.
Awakening to Love Program
“When I first signed up for Awakening to Love I wanted to ensure that I had support and guidance for this next chapter of my life. I was open to learning more about “real” love per say. I have to say that it was purely intuitive. I felt divinely led. I was afraid at first, afraid to let you know me I thought. Now I realise, I was more afraid to let me know me. I had no idea that I had all these unmet needs, victim strategies, hero strategies. Not to the degree that I saw these in me the last couple of months. Situations, synchronized situations, presented themselves so that I could begin this journey of acknowledging the roles I play in my love experience with self and others.
I watched the same things show up for group members… Situations showed up for them to practice their new found strategies.
Melissa helped me get in touch with a belief I have regarding my sense of “enoughness”. She brought me right there to when I was 6 or 7. Where I created the victim/hero strategy. Be nice and kind always. Then I might be loved. This I know will be life changing for me because seeing when I created this perception is incredibly helpful in seeing that I now have the power to change that thought. I’ve always been enough. In fact, I am seeing I have so much to offer. Now I’m learning to offer myself to myself. What I most appreciated from this journey is having the group and Melissa hold space for me. Knowing I was being heard, held up, and loved.
I would recommend this to any one of my friends and family that needed to explore self care, love, relationships. I would say Melissa and this group are Divinely inspired and led and will always meet us gently and lovingly, where we are at. Melissa and this group have sprung me into another level of hope, joy, knowing, empathy. So much to learn. My feelings list, list of needs, I will carry with me.
I’m proud of myself and proud of this group for showing up, and allowing their vulnerability. I’m teary writing this letter. My heart is healing… I’m Awakening to Love.” Awakening to Love Sister in Sudbury, Ontario
“When we began this journey, I was sharing the twin bed in the guest room with my dog, enduring the most stressful period in my 50 years. In May, my dear brother’s brain cancer diagnosis and death woke me up. My marriage wasn’t working and hadn’t for some time. Maybe never. I told my husband I was done. He spent the summer trying to convince me otherwise. He was suddenly the perfect husband. Everything I had ever asked for, he was now doing. I was torn. Why would I leave when he was doing everything? My heart knew I didn’t love him anymore. Late October I was finally able to say I was done in a way he was able to hear. Early November he moved out. There have been ups and downs since then, but overall we are doing well with the transition. Now I enjoy my queen-sized bed in the master bedroom. I’m planning a girls’ weekend in Idaho. I’m learning what I like, want, feel after 18 years of prioritizing what someone else likes, wants and feels. This program appeared at the perfect time (of course) for me to Awaken to my love for myself. The exercises on 12/13 & 12/20 were especially impactful for me. I saw how my caretaking is a cover up. I saw what I really want in a relationship: To be authentic, vulnerable, sometimes weak and helpless and still be loved. To be taken care of. To be angry or sad and know it’s ok. I heard from my Inner Magical Child. For the first time I heard her. She had lots to say: She likes to eat fruit and warm food She likes to wear bright colors and soft fabrics She likes happy, loving, generous, honest God people She likes to feel tender, enchanted, thrilled, moved, fulfilled and vibrant Home, family and Tribe make her feel safe She wants her surroundings to be neat, pretty, soft, earthy and natural She wants me to “BE HERE” One of the most valuable tools for me is to ask myself “why” I want to numb. Very helpful. If I’m just tired and need to rest my brain, then I allow myself to numb guilt-free. If there’s something else going on, I have a choice. Also helpful to check in with my feelings a few times a day. (I put reminders on my phone calendar) It was a stretch to participate in this program at this time. I didn’t always give 100%. I am forgiving myself for not being perfect and acknowledging myself for taking some hugs strides. Thank you all for sharing the journey.” Awakening to Love Sister in Wisconsin
“When I started this journey, I was mentally exhausted. I felt defeated, and unclear as to where I was going. I craved clarity, peace of mind and acceptance. Along this path, I discovered that the root of many of the things I was experiencing was rooted in my childhood. My reactions, my thought processes, playing the victim, afraid of rejection, defensive walls built when I needed them to be, and a general feeling of being unsafe. Feeling anxious when I felt partners pull away in the past and chasing them all the more was eye opening to me….What is possible to me as I sit here today is the ability to be strong in myself, yet nurturing to ME. Saying yes to me. Valuing me, recognizing the positive in me, and knowing that I am a radiant queen, I do not go to the villagers house and beg to eat with them……..which can be used in all areas of my life. I feel like I would like more time now that this is the foundation and now I want to build my house on this. I have appreciated the comradery, the shared sisterhood, and the freedom to be vulnerable without judgement.” Awakening to Love Sister in Madison, WI
“When I signed up for this program,…I realized that I had a great longing to experience intimacy in my relationship and had been so afraid to tackle my fears that were in the way. Throughout this program I have gained courage to really dive into my “bad” feelings. I have grown in my ability to discern my true feelings and what needs they are pointing to. I have started to break down the walls I had built that were keeping me from intimacy. I think there are still a few more to go – like the layers of an onion – but I am peeling them away one by one. Now at the end of this program I’m discovering the beauty in letting your guard down. I’ve seen just how tender and precious we all are at heart when we let ourselves become vulnerable, but ironically we can’t see that until we step into our STRENGTH and realize that we deserve to ask for and have what we desire. I have loved seeing everyone’s journeys and our victories, both big and small. Going forward I will without a doubt maintain the journaling practice that I’ve started to continue discerning my feelings and needs. I’ve gained confidence in myself and will continue to practice self care and compassion. I would recommend (and already have recommended!) this program to anyone who desires peace and fulfillment in and out of their relationships. Melissa packed so many goodies into a relatively short period of time, and the group was such a safe and supportive space to work through how to apply what we’ve learned in our own real life situations. I want to celebrate the COURAGE of all us to go on this journey together. This work can make you feel so vulnerable, but we have stepped into that space and brought some of our most painful and personal experiences to light. Thank you all for always being so supportive and non-judgmental no matter what any of us brought to the table. I love you ladies and wish you the absolute best as you continue on your journeys.” Awakening to Love Sister in North Carolina