I was referred to Melinda Velez by a friend because I was retiring from many years of working as a teacher. I was happy that I was retiring, of course, but didn’t know what to expect since COVID-19 had arrived in full force. I was afraid that I would have a future of sitting in my recliner watching cable TV. Melinda was a godsend. She was not only a sounding board for when I was feeling depressed and lonely, she gave me concrete ideas and coping mechanisms to help me navigate this period of my life. And especially to look at my life in a different way. The way that I viewed my situation was not necessarily how my family and friends were viewing it and responding to me. Melinda helped me to be less isolated, even while I was quarantining and “stuck” at home. I have been talking to my friends about how much help she has given me, and my family members have seen how I have been able to use some of the coping skills that I learned from Melinda, to help my grandchildren through this strange COVID-19 time.
– Betty
Life throws us curve balls all the time. Some of these are more difficult and painful transitions than others, that was the case with me. Ending a 30 year marriage, working through the emotional turmoil and looking for a way to start anew free of toxic behavioral patterns. It felt like I was “starting from scratch”, re-establishing a career, a home and a life. Two steps forward three steps back… I could not have broken that cycle without the support of Melinda as a coach. Having someone in your corner to keep you on track and help you build a strong personal foundation for success. All done with incredible sincerity, patience, loyalty and empathy. Melinda has a unique ability to help validate your reality and push you forward.
– Patti
I met Melinda when I was in high school. She was my social worker. I at the time was struggling. Classes were hard for me and life in general. She found ways to help me by playing games and not judging me. Sadly I did drop out. She was able to get me to take my GED quickly. She even showed up for my graduation. I then went to college and she supported me the whole time. I got pregnant and I called her. She didn’t let me down. I knew I had support once again.
As time passed I have called her when I needed a friend or advice. When DCF got in my life she was once again there for me and my family. Never judging me. She always said she was a call or a text away. My own children have come to know she is there for them.
I am now 41 and my life line and support is still behind me 100%. I can cry, laugh, feel like my world is falling apart and I know she will advise me in the way to go. At my lowest and highest she has been there. When they say god brings a handful of angels into your life they aren’t lying. My angel is her. I honestly don’t think I would be who I am today if not for her.
– Aimee
I have known Melinda for almost 12 years. I have never met such an empathetic, selfless, driven human being like her.
Melinda has always been of great support all around for my family, others and I. She has empowered me to make positive changes in my life, to be more confident, to have broader outlook and clearer understanding, to do what I love, to work hard and be determined but most importantly to always be kind. Thank you, Melinda for your ongoing unconditional love and support. I would not be woman I am today without YOU.