Melissa Dionne, MSW

LCSW and Principal Owner

I earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Psychology (Psi Chi honor society) and minor in Marketing from Old Dominion University (1991). I obtained a Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Norfolk State University in 1995.

Throughout my career I have been extensively trained in Child Centered Play Therapy; training programs to include Garry Landreth and Eliana Gil, additionally, I completed a graduate certification in Counseling for Child Centered Play Therapy from the University of North Carolina, Charlotte in June 2016. Clinical focus has been to treat survivors of trauma (sexual abuse and physical abuse), families going through divorce and children and teens dealing with the every day stresses of life. I’ve been licensed as a Clinical Social Worker in 3 states, VA, NC and currently in FL.

I earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Psychology (Psi Chi honor society) and minor in Marketing from Old Dominion University (1991). I obtained a Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Norfolk State University in 1995.

Throughout my career I have been extensively trained in Child Centered Play Therapy; training programs to include Garry Landreth and Eliana Gil, additionally, I completed a graduate certification in Counseling for Child Centered Play Therapy from the University of North Carolina, Charlotte in June 2016. Clinical focus has been to treat survivors of trauma (sexual abuse and physical abuse), families going through divorce and children and teens dealing with the every day stresses of life. I’ve been licensed as a Clinical Social Worker in 3 states, VA, NC and currently in FL.

My professional growth is centered on research, evidence based therapies and interventions: Gottman Couples Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.

In addition to my private practice; I am certified as a guardian ad litem for the 7^thDistrict courts. I have completed the FL Supreme Court Mediation Training Program and the Parenting Coordinator Program.

I have teenage girls, 2 dogs and reside in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. I enjoy traveling, yoga, tennis, great food and spending time with family and friends.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I’ve completed specialized trainings in:

Child Centered Play Therapy (CCPT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Group Therapy, psycho-educational for victims of sexual abuse and social skills groups for children/adolescents
DBT skills, Level 1 certified
Family Therapy, System Approach
Marital Therapy, Active Listening Approach and Gottman Level 1 and 2
Filial Therapy
Crisis and Conflict Resolultion
Trained in Sexual and Physical Abuse Indicators and Treatment
FL Supreme Court Mediation training and Parenting Coordinator Program
Infidelity
Divorce
Certified to provide Clinical Supervision, MSW students

Certifications

Susan Birch

Divorce Coach

I am a compassionate and experienced Divorce Coach dedicated to helping individuals navigate the challenging process of divorce with grace, resilience, and confidence. I bring a unique blend of expertise and empathy to support my clients through this significant life transition.

With four years’ experience as the in-house Client Liaison/Divorce Coach of one of North Florida’s top family law practices, I've assisted countless individuals in achieving a positive and empowered divorce experience. My expertise is founded on an approach of conscious uncoupling. It is my goal to help you move forward and assist you in becoming the best version of yourself.

I believe in a holistic approach to divorce coaching, focusing on emotional, practical, and legal aspects. I'm committed to helping clients gain a sense of control, clarity, and confidence as they navigate the challenging path to divorce. My approach is empathetic, client-centered, and always tailored to individual needs.

Let's work together to turn this challenging chapter in your life into an opportunity for growth and a brighter future. I look forward to helping you through your divorce journey.

Rebecca Downey

Counseling and Play Therapy Intern

I have a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from George Mason University. I’m a graduate student at Jacksonville University, working on a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a graduate certificate in Play Therapy. I will complete EMDR training in early September 2023. I work with adults, adolescents, and children.

I use a blend of theoretical orientations to include Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Adlerian, Motivational Interviewing, and Relational Cultural Theory. For clients under 12, we will meet in the playroom with a child-centered approach.

I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. I bring my warm, caring personality, training, and an open mind, and together we will create a plan tailored to you. Together we will unpack it, explore it, learn skills to increase your peace and stability, while considering the story you tell yourself about what has happened.

I’m the mom of a teenage daughter, tween son, and two rescue pups. I enjoy curling up with a good book, all things baking, and can often be found at the beach.

Special Areas of Interest

Lyme Disease and Co-infections
PANDAS/PANS

Professional Affiliations

American Mental Health Counselors Association
American Counseling Association
Association for Play Therapy
Chi Sigma Iota
Florida Mental Health Counselors Association

Angela Zaher

Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI

have a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from the University of North Florida. I received my Masters of Science in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling in 2023, also at the University of North Florida.

Through an integrative lens, I utilize Cognitive-Behavioral, Person-Centered, and Background focused theoretical approaches. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to best reach their goals and needs. I am looking forward to working together and finding goals that best meet your needs.

In my free time I enjoy watching my favorite T.V. shows, being in nature, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

Jen Stemack

Office Manager

Jen has made Atlantic Beach her home for over the last 20 years. After graduating from the University of North Florida in 2001, she has managed several local businesses and served as the recreational assistant at the City of Atlantic Beach Recreation and Special Events. She is a proud mom of her son Teagan who is a junior at Fletcher High School. Jen is an avid pickle ball player and is passionate about sharing the fastest growing sport with her family, friends and the community. In her spare time, Jen enjoys cooking, traveling, music and photography. She is loyal and genuinely enjoys helping those with whom she is around. Fittingly she has found the perfect home at JAX BCH Counseling, and is excited to enrich the lives of others in a positive healthy environment.

Amanda Swaney

Office Manager

I have always considered Jacksonville my home despite the opportunity to live in many interesting and exotic places around the world. I have extensive managerial and customer service experience. I believe in treating others warm and kindly, along with empathy and understanding. In my free time I enjoy reading, going to the gym and spending time with my family.

“Change happens when the pain of staying the same is greater than the pain of change.”

- Tony Robbins, Author, and Life Coach

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