Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Saint Paul, MN

I am Melissa, I am a licensed independent clinical social worker. I have 10+ years of experience in a variety of mental health positions including casemanagement, ARMHS, county social work, substance use treatment settings, and hospital settings. I have a masters in social work from The University of New England. I work with a variety of diagnosis including anxiety, depression, PTSD, adjustment disorder and personality disorders. Also, phase of life concerns from adjusting to an addition to the family to retirement. I work primarily from a solution focused prospective. Working to change how experiences affect today's behaviors.

A former client called me "endlessly chill." I am known to wear more sweatshirts than more "professional" attire. I don't want to give off any energy that I am better than anyone who sits across from me. I am known to swear in sessions (but I do filter this per client).

I'm a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with over 10+ of experience in the mental health field, and 3 years as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I founded Isimi Health & Wellness to provide thoughtful, evidence-based psychiatric care rooted in compassion, cultural humility, and a deep respect for the mind-body connection. My clinical background spans across PHP/IOP settings, Outpatient psychiatry, TMS, and telepsychiatry. I’ve worked with diverse populations experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and life transitions. Whether you're seeking support for mood instability, clarity around your medication options, or a space to reset and realign, I’m honored to walk alongside you on your wellness journey.

I am a warm, compassionate, nonjudgmental clinician who cares about those who show up for therapy. I am inquisitive, curious and direct in challenging thoughts and behavior that get in the way of living a happy, fulfilling life. I encourage individuals, couples and families to lean into/draw strength from their spiritual and/or religious beliefs. I enjoy and encourage utilizing the gift of humor to enrich one’s life.

I enjoy working with college students. I am also an AAMFT Approved Supervisor for college students seeking supervision. (I would not be able to provide therapy and AAMFT Supervision to a client - as that would be a "dual" relationship).

I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care for children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in the evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management of ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, trauma-related conditions. My goal is to create a supportive, judgment-free environment where you feel heard, understood, and empowered throughout your mental health journey.

I believe that every person's story is unique, so I take the time to understand your concerns, symptoms, lifestyle, and treatment goals before developing an individualized care plan. I incorporate medication management with supportive counseling and evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques and Motivational Interviewing, to help you build practical coping skills and achieve lasting improvement.

Whether you're struggling with difficulty focusing, persistent worry, overwhelming stress, low mood, emotional challenges, or life transitions, I work collaboratively with you to help you regain balance and improve your overall well-being. My focus is on delivering personalized, compassionate care that supports meaningful, long-term success in both your mental health and daily life.

I am very appreciative of your time to review my profile, and excited to hear from you if this brief information creates an interest to learn more about me, and/or to begin the steps of working together. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys the diversity of working with individuals 18+, couples, and families. My work usually serves and offers support to those that are struggling with communication issues, stress/anxiety, trauma, and complex life issues. I seek to support those in need of culturally responsive and culturally sensitive services.