Hi! I am Melissa Foster, the founder and owner of Fostering Fortitude Ohio.

Welcome to my Practice!

I specialize in working with high-risk, high-stakes professionals who struggle with perfectionism and the myriad challenges that come with it. My practice is dedicated to providing a warm, laid-back (but respectful), and non-judgmental environment where we can address these unique issues together. Whether you're dealing with setting boundaries, suffering from vicarious trauma, marital struggles, strained relationships with your children due to long work hours, or even the complexities of dating while being married to your job, I am here to help.

My approach is rooted in a Trauma and Polyvagal theory approach, which focuses on the impact of chronic stress and trauma on the nervous system. This often leads to fight, flight, freeze, and fawn responses, forming the basis for anxiety, depression, and dissociation. I see our sessions being collaborative, identifying past traumas or events, helping you regulate your nervous system, reestablishing safety within yourself and your environment, setting goals and boundaries, challenging thoughts, and empowering you to find your voice and truth. I am an EMDRIA Consultant therapist and utilize this approach with clients who are seeking relief from trauma-related symptoms, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges that stem from distressing life experiences.

Given the physical impacts that trauma and anxiety can have on our bodies, I incorporate grounding tools and mindfulness techniques such as breath work, yoga, and meditation to bring awareness to the dysregulated body and help you out of a chronic fight/flight/freeze response.

Fun facts about me: My friends describe me as enthusiastic and passionate, I am a retired D1 athlete, a mom of two young kids and the spouse of a first responder. In my free time, you will find me hanging out with my family, running with my local run club, and playing with my awesome GoldenDoodle, Rosie.

I provide a ton of services to clients and the community at large. Subscribe to my monthly email blast to get the details!

- Melissa