2 - Melissa Pistono

Melissa Pistono, a ​Child Psychologist and Trauma Specialist, shares her story of how she came to be with Reyn. In Melissa's own words, "​As a young girl, I witnessed a neighbor beat his son and throw him head first into a wall. As I walked home frightened and confused; I said to myself, "parents shouldn't be allowed to do that to their kids". That was the defining event for me. In college I studied child psychology, focusing on trauma psychology and domestic violence law. My career included; research on the life time effects of abuse and neglect, treatment for children that have experienced trauma, and work within local judicial systems to better protect women and children victims as they navigate the courts. In the future I hope to see more effort put into the prevention of childhood abuse and neglect. Mental health programs that help individuals become stronger, more confident, and more self loving." This journey took her to many places, law school at the University of Oregon and into judges chambers to help the children be heard. This conversation was such an honor to have, enlightening and honest just like Melissa herself.