Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Bustamante.
Hi Melissa, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I grew up in Topeka, KS being raised by my adoptive mother. She was a single woman that loved children and became a foster mother. I went to her household when I was 2 years old due to my biological parents not meeting my physical needs due to their mental health issues and drug use. My adoptive mother raised me on her own and continued to do foster care – even after she adopted me when I was 8 years old. She did not adopt any other children but did have a child that is now my sister. I believe that God has been with me throughout my experiences and that I was never alone. Through my experiences of growing up – I believe that family was very important and wanted to help families that were not getting along for my career when I grew up. I became a mental health therapist in 2012 and started work in the community mental health system. There I began my journey of helping individuals and families that struggled with relationships. In 2021, I started my own business helping people with their mental health struggles in my private practice. I continue to see families and individuals – helping them to process life events so they can best connect to others. I have found the love of my life in 2024 and now am engaged to him and live with him in Lee’s Summit.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As a kid, my adoptive mother provided me with loving, fun experiences and things were good. When I was a teenager, I tested the boundaries of my mom by sneaking out and lying. My mom continued to love me through trying to teach me that I had to follow the rules. As I matured and moved out of the house, my relationship with my mom became stronger and stronger. She continues to teach me how important family is.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Cultivate Hope KC?
I am a single-owner business of a private practice for mental health therapy. I am a registered play therapist that provides unique experiences for clients that come to see me – such as – sand tray therapy, Theraplay informed therapy, EMDR and creative expressions for emotions. I have a passion for learning and am working to read and learn new things for my clients on a regular basis.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Flexibility and adaptability. Being able to be in different environments and be successful because I could adapt. I use that flexibility and adaptability with clients – understanding what they need and changing my approach to meet them where they are at.
Pricing:
- $125 an hour for counseling
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cultivatehopekc.org/
