Meet Victoria: A Warm Welcome to Castlebrook Counseling’s Newest Clinician

Meet Victoria: A Warm Welcome to Castlebrook Counseling’s Newest Clinician

We’re thrilled to welcome Victoria Coons-Melanson, LCSW (MA), LMSW (CT), a compassionate and trauma-informed therapist, to the Castlebrook Counseling team! Victoria brings a deeply relational and inclusive approach to therapy, with special interests in working with LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent clients, as well as individuals navigating trauma, mood disorders, intimacy and self-esteem issues.

I sat down with her for a quick Q&A to learn more about what inspires her work and how she connects with clients in meaningful and supportive ways.
 
Nicole: What first inspired you to pursue a career in mental health counseling?

Victoria: I saw a therapist when I was a kid and realized I wanted to be like her—to help others feel heard, seen, and supported. I’ve always believed that everyone deserves to have someone they can talk to. Nobody should ever feel alone.
 
Nicole: How would you describe your approach to therapy in just a few words?

Victoria: Relational, trauma-informed, strengths-based, and compassion-centered.
 
Nicole: You use a wide range of modalities, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Focused Therapy. How do you decide which approach to use with each client?

Victoria: I collaborate with each client to determine what fits best for them. I like to offer different pathways, and together we explore what feels right. The relationship we build is key and it creates a foundation of trust, and from there we can communicate openly and decide how to move forward together.
 
Nicole: You’ve shared a passion for working with queer and neurodivergent individuals. What draws you to this work, and how do you create affirming space for these communities?

Victoria: As someone who is part of both communities, I understand how important it is to have space to process these identities, especially given today’s political climate. I want to create a validating, affirming space where clients know they’re not alone and remind them of their inner strength and resilience. I also make sure to provide accommodations as needed to ensure each person feels safe and supported.
 
Nicole: What are some common misconceptions about therapy or mental health that you’d love to challenge?

Victoria: One big misconception is that therapy always has to involve “figuring something out,” or at every session you have to be searching for an answer. Therapy really is just about being present, feeling your feelings, or having a space where you can be honest and receive compassion.
 
Nicole: You seem to work with all age groups—what made you decide to serve such a variety of clients?

Victoria: In past roles, I’ve worked with a wide range of demographics—children, adolescents, adults, and parents. I’ve really enjoyed working with people across that full spectrum.
 
Nicole: Therapy can be vulnerable. How do you help clients feel safe enough to explore difficult parts of themselves?

Victoria: I emphasize self-compassion and help clients gently challenge fears of being judged, rejected, or abandoned. Everyone deserves acceptance and care, and I want people to feel that in our work together. I always let clients go at their own pace—there’s no rush in therapy.
 
Nicole: Outside of the therapy office, what brings you joy and helps you recharge?

Victoria: Spending time with my cats, doing arts and crafts, and sitting outside in nature—those things help me reset and feel grounded.
 
Nicole: What would you say to someone who is nervous or unsure about starting therapy?

Victoria: Just because something is hard doesn’t mean it isn’t worth it. Therapy can be scary, but it can also be incredibly rewarding.
 
Nicole: What are you most excited about as you join the Castlebrook team?
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Victoria: I’m especially excited to offer in-person services and connect with clients in a shared therapeutic space. I am also looking forward to building meaningful and trusting relationships with clients.


We’re so excited to have Victoria join the Castlebrook team! Her warmth, authenticity, and inclusive approach make her a wonderful addition to our community. To learn more or schedule a session with Victoria, visit https://castlebrookcounseling.com/request-appointment.html