Find a therapist in Florida — covered by insurance

I have worked with diverse populations in a variety of settings, including inpatient psychiatric stabilization, homeless prevention, and integrated healthcare. These experiences have allowed me to develop an eclectic skill-set with a person-centered approach. I love being a social worker and having the privilege of helping others heal and grow.

I have over two decades of Social Work experience. I have worked in high school settings for over 20 years with a variety of students to include: LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, ADHD, and teen parenting. Prior to working in the school setting, I worked with homeless families as well as domestic violence victims.

I have a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Jacksonville University. I’ve been at Wekiva Springs Center since 2022, and have experience with patients all over the spectrum from mood disorders, to substance abuse disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and psychotic disorders.

Generous, Dependable, Supportive, Kindhearted, Insightful, assertive, courageous, bold, compassionate

I believe that trauma and challenging life transitions look different for everyone. It can come from a single overwhelming event, a series of painful experiences, or the quiet accumulation of stress, loss, or unmet needs over time. In my practice, I take a broad and compassionate view of trauma—one that honors your unique story and the ways you’ve learned to cope and survive. Whether you’re healing from past experiences, navigating a difficult life transition, or simply feeling stuck, therapy offers a space to begin making sense of what’s happened and reconnecting with yourself in new ways.

In today’s world, it can be difficult to find the time and energy to slow down and make sense of what has brought you here.

We live with constant demands and expectations that our minds and bodies were never designed to sustain at such a rapid pace. Maybe you find yourself reacting from a place of overwhelm, becoming defensive without intending to, or pushing through exhaustion just to check the next box on an ever-growing list. Perhaps struggles from your past continue to show up in your present, leaving you wondering, “Why am I still dealing with this?” or “Shouldn’t I be over this by now?” If so, I want you to know that it doesn’t have to stay this way, and you don’t have to navigate it alone.

I am a therapist, but I am also a person who has experienced hardship, loss, and self-criticism. I understand what it feels like to be stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected. I partner with adults who are ready to heal from past wounds, deepen their self-understanding, and reconnect with themselves in meaningful ways.

Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, nightmares, emotional reactivity, or feelings of disconnection and withdrawal. Together, we work to understand your nervous system, build practical regulation skills, and gently process painful or unresolved experiences. My approach is trauma-informed, somatic, and parts-based (IFS), integrating EMDR and traditional talk therapy to meet your unique needs.

Choosing to begin therapy takes courage, often more than people realize. While healing can be challenging, it is also deeply rewarding. Sometimes caring for yourself means doing difficult work now so that life feels more manageable later. I would be honored to walk alongside you on that journey.

Hi,

I’m Melissa, Licensed Therapist and Your Favorite Relationship Expert.

My own personal life encouraged me to focus on helping clients experience successful relationships.

I have over 15 years experience including training with culturally diverse individuals and couples to improve their relationships.

I have worked in college counseling and community mental health agencies where relationship issues are a top concern. I also have specialized training on unhealthy and toxic relationships.