Family therapy and counseling in Independence, MO

When you’re living with trauma, the effects of a brain injury, or facing difficult health or end-of-life realities, it can feel isolating and exhausting.

I help adults navigating PTSD, TBI, grief, anxiety, and end-of-life concerns feel more supported, understood, and emotionally grounded. My goal is to provide a calm space where you don’t have to carry everything alone.

I've been a provider for the Adult Brain Injury Program for many years. If you do not have insurance, please contact me for possible financial assistance for Adjustment Counseling in Missouri through this program.

Hello and congratulations for taking the first and sometimes hardest step of looking for a therapist. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of IN, KY LA, MO, NV, TX, WA and WV. I have the great privilege of working with adolescents and adults seeking assistance in improving their overall mental health and associated challenges. I’ve been in the behavioral health arena for over 40 years and have held numerous direct care and clinical leadership roles in a variety of settings. My joy comes from helping people navigate life's challenges.

As a Missouri Ozarks native, nature and the outdoors have always played a huge part in my healing journey and mental health. Growing up, I was outside any chance I got; riding bikes, riding horses, climbing trees, bird watching, rock collecting, camping, hiking, floating, boating, spelunking, exploring creeks, and enjoying campfires. Nature immersion, movement in nature, outdoor recreation, and horsemanship remain part of my daily practice; and I incorporate these into my therapeutic work wherever possible.

Welcome!

Thank you for considering me as your therapist. I am Brenda Melton, PhD, a Licensed Professional Counselor with a background in nursing. I hold several specialty certifications and have experience treating anxiety and depressive disorders, as well as working with individuals struggling with addiction, personality disorders, and the effects of trauma.

One of the most rewarding parts of therapy is experiencing those "aha" moments—when a realization, insight, or new understanding suddenly brings clarity to a complicated life experience. These moments often provide direction, open new possibilities for change, and inspire hope for healing and growth.

If you're carrying the weight of depression, anxiety, or a past you haven't been able to fully

process, you don't have to figure it out alone. With more than five years as a Licensed Clinical

Social Worker, I work with adults and seniors who are ready to make sense of what they've been

through and start moving toward the life they want to build.

I have a particular passion for working with people navigating mood disorders like bipolar disorder,

trauma and PTSD, and the kind of emotional challenges men often face but rarely talk about. I also

work with couples who want to strengthen their connection before things fall apart.

I work primarily with adults experiencing substance use, trauma, depression, and anxiety. I have a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology with 9 years of experience in private practice, inpatient substance use clinics, and community based mental health centers.