Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Topeka, KS covered by Aetna

I earned the MSW from the University of Kansas in 2014. I have since engaged in a range of direct human and mental health service work; including in-home therapy with youth and their families connected to state child protective services; crisis therapy and case management in a short-term crisis stabilization facility; outpatient community mental health therapy including work with individuals, families or couples, and groups.

I'm Melinda Powers, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW) and owner of Parlami LLC, a private psychotherapy practice in Lawrence, Kansas. I hold an MSW from Arizona State University and am licensed in Kansas, Missouri, and Nevada.

My clinical approach is trauma-informed and integrative. I'm trained in EMDR and clinical hypnotherapy and I hold ADHD Clinical Services Provider credentials. I work with individuals, couples, and families ages 15 and up, with particular specialties in trauma recovery, ADHD, and conscious uncoupling for couples navigating separation or divorce.

I believe healing happens through genuine connection, not just technique. Whether you're working through past trauma, navigating attention or focus challenges, or facing the end of a significant relationship, I bring both compassion and directness to our work together. I'll meet you where you are, but I won't let you stay stuck there if real change is possible.

Parlami means "talk to me" in Italian, and that's exactly the invitation I extend to every client: a space to be honest, be heard, and do the real work of moving forward.

I work with men, women, couples, and families who feel stuck in their relationships—especially when communication breaks down or emotions run high. Many of my clients are successful at work but find home life more challenging. I’ve worked in leadership roles managing teams and high-pressure decisions, so I understand that world. I bring a mix of counseling, pastoral, and leadership experience, and I create a space that is honest, practical, and non-judgmental.

I work with busy adults and high functioning professional women experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, burnout, mood concerns, and menopause related mood changes. As a dual-certified nurse practitioner in both adult-gerontology and psychiatric mental health allows me to take a comprehensive, whole-person approach. My goal is to provide personalized care that feels thoughtful, supportive, and not rushed.

Life can change in an instant. Whether you're coping with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or the impact of substance use, it's easy to feel like you've lost your footing or aren't quite yourself anymore. You may be carrying emotional pain that feels difficult to put into words while wondering if life will ever feel manageable again. You deserve support that helps you heal, regain confidence, and move forward one step at a time. I specialize in helping clients navigate substance use and addiction, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and trauma so they can build healthier coping skills, strengthen important relationships, and create lasting emotional wellness. I work with adults and seniors because I believe healing begins when you feel accepted, understood, and supported without judgment.

I've spent 20+ years working with people who are smart, self-aware, and still stuck — and there's a reason for that. Insight alone doesn't change deeply worn patterns. What does change them is combining the right clinical approach with someone who actually understands what you're carrying. I work with adults, teens, and children across Kansas via telehealth, and I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and ADHD — as well as LGBTQIA+ affirming care, substance use, and maternal mental health.

My style is direct and warm. I'm not a head-nodding, "how does that make you feel?" therapist. I'll ask hard questions when they're needed, and I'll be in your corner every step of the way.

I provide personalized and focused men's health that includes the psychological, biological, and spiritual domains of health and wellness. I am a dual board certified nurse practitioner in family medicine and psychiatry, so I understand and can treat the whole person. My doctoral studies focused on integrative medicine with an emphasis on men's health. I also have degrees in pastoral counseling and biblical exposition, so I am able to offer faith-forward mental health care for those who desire an integrated Christian experience.

I'm passionate about helping women navigate the unique challenges they face. I understand the pressures of balancing multiple roles, the impact of societal expectations, and the importance of self-care. I strive to create a non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly. During our initial sessions, I'll listen to and understand your story. I want to know what brings you here, your hopes, and your concerns. I'll explore your history, current challenges, and strengths. This comprehensive understanding helps me tailor my approach to your specific needs. Together, we'll establish realistic and achievable goals.

I specialize in supporting women navigating complex experiences that often go misunderstood. This includes women who have experienced harm within spiritual or religious communities—whether that's spiritual abuse, religious trauma, or the complicated grief of leaving a faith tradition. I also work with women managing anxiety, depression, and interpersonal trauma.

If you've felt silenced, questioned your own reality, or struggled to trust yourself after difficult experiences, you're not alone. My practice is a place where your story matters, your feelings are valid, and healing is possible.