Melissa von der Heide, MA, LMFT

01/21/2026

While studying at Elon, I had one psychology professor that had a huge impact on me, Maureen Vandermaas-Peeler. In developmental psychology and in undergrad research we focused on and talked a great deal about the importance of play. In sessions, I have built Legos, played laser tag, played card and board games and have spent sessions coloring.

It brings me so much joy to see approximately 6 snowmen on my drive from home to the office. Jersey has not had big storms the last few years. This past weekend while they were small storms it was enough for some big snowmen. Here is my favorite from my drive (I was stopped on the side of the road to get this picture)

01/21/2026

12/30/2025

The year contained many personal ups and downs. That's just part of life. Something that isn't coming into 2026 is people who don't make my life better. Good vibes and good for the soul only

12/22/2025

If you have to work the week of a holiday make sure you take a break to have some fun. My work break included pizza, Legos, crafts and book reading with one of my favorite little friends

(not a client. Just quality time with my friend's child)

12/11/2025

The end of the year is always crazy. Even the elves are dropping by for a quick mental health check in

12/04/2025

Kiddos can't always talk about their feelings but they can sure draw or in this case rate how big their feelings are inside of them. It amazes me every time when they acknowledge how big the big feelings are

11/18/2025

Here in NJ, 1 in 13 children will lose a parent or sibling before turning 18. Nationally it is 1 in 12 children. Children's grief often gets overlooked because "kids are resilient". The loss of a family member impacts a child for a lifetime, especially when it comes to a parent or sibling.

I hope you are able to join us this Thursday as a time of remembering and connecting with others. This event is open to all ages

11/08/2025

A population that is very near and dear to my heart. Please share and stop by if you can

10/12/2025

Sometimes as therapists our clients help us out when we are having a hard time. This morning I was messing up names like crazy. My client said I think you need to fidget to help unscramble your brain. I did and it helped

07/13/2025

Going off for your first year of college can be overwhelming. Come and bring friends that are also entering the post high school world