Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Topeka, KS

My name is Marcelo Benalcazar. I am a father of four and a first generation son of two immigrants. I grew up in Topeka as a biracial/bicultural child and know all too well the feelings that come from being "different" than everyone else. In my free time I play video games (I have multiple systems and enjoy multiple genres), watch movies, read graphic novels, and LOVE all forms of music. Educationally I received my Associates Degree in Addictions Counseling from Kansas City Kansas Community College and my Bachelors and Masters from the University of Kansas where I graduated Cum Laude as an Integrated Behavioral Health Scholar. I am currently a dual licensed therapist with an LSCSW and an LMAC.

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 am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over eight years of nursing experiencing, including more than six years in the intensive care. My experience caring for patients during some of the most difficult moments of their lives, along with my own journey with therapy and mental health treatment, inspired me to pursue a career in psychiatry.

I work with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, stress, and life transitions. I also enjoy helping children with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. My goal is to create a compassionate, judgment-free space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes.

My therapy space is warm, inviting, and open which mirrors what you will experience working with me. My approach comes from a curious and compassion space to effectively help make change happen. I am a clinically licensed marriage and family therapist. I have over 5 years experience working with individuals, couples, and families.

I work with adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, relationship stress, trauma, substance use, and the pressure of trying to keep everything inside. Many of the people I work with are tired of bottling things up, reacting in ways they regret, or feeling like life has gotten off track. Some of my clients are trying to rebuild after rock bottom, others are learning that sobriety is just the start and want help creating healthier patterns, stronger relationships, and more stability in daily life. If you are ready for a new pattern, start with me.

I believe in meeting my clients where they're at. They are the expert in their own story. I'm just here to listen, help process, maybe challenge, and encourage them in their journey. I went to Newman University for my Master's Degree and went on to get my Clinical License. I have worked with varying populations including teens, adults, geriatrics, the prison population, couples counseling, and Christian Counseling. I enjoy working with people who have been through trauma or grief or have experienced anxiety or depression.

For 30 years, I've worked inside schools alongside children and adolescents — as a social worker, an advocate, and someone who genuinely understands how young people think, struggle, and grow. I know what anxiety looks like in a middle schooler. I know how ADHD shows up in a classroom. And I know that the kids and families who need support deserve to get it without spending years trying to find relief.

I'm a Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker — a credential I earned in November 2025, after raising two kids of my own while completing every requirement along the way. It took longer than I planned. I wouldn't change it. That experience shapes how I show up for every client.

I hold a Master's in Social Work from the University of Kansas and work as both a school social worker and a therapist, giving me a perspective on young people and families that's grounded in their real, daily lives.

Hello, and welcome, my name is Caroline I know that choosing to seek mental-health support takes strength, and I want you to know that you will not face this journey alone. If you've ever felt like seeking Psychiatric care means meeting a busy, rushed provider who treats you like a diagnosis, I get it. Our world has a way of speeding up healthcare to the point where it's impersonal. I started my own practice to change that. I have experience with all levels of care from severe hospitalizations to routine medication refills. I am particularly passionate about anxiety and in helping my clients who tell me their "brains just won't turn off"...learn how to slow down.