Melissa Marquez,
- ASW
Mental Health Therapist
Born and raised across the prairies of Northern Canada, Melissa moved to California in 2022
and earned her Master of Social Work from San Diego State University in 2026. Prior to
becoming a social worker, Melissa worked as a music therapist in Canada and later lived and
worked abroad teaching English as a foreign language. Her experiences across cultures
deepened her understanding of how culture and environment shape our lives and sparked her
interest in social justice and family systems.
Melissa is passionate about supporting youth as they navigate adolescence and prepare for
adulthood. Her own experiences with change and a nontraditional path inform how she works
alongside young people, supporting them as they recognize their strengths and capacity for
growth. Her practice is strengths-based, creative, and grounded in mindfulness.
Outside of work, Melissa can usually be found at a museum with her sons, relaxing with her cat,
or outdoors enjoying sunny SoCal life.