Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Akron, OH

I believe therapy is a space to find inner peace through courage, curiosity, and compassion. The journey toward peace begins with the willingness to be vulnerable—an act that can feel both brave and frightening. Opening up to another person and turning inward to meet ourselves can stir fear and uncertainty, but it becomes gentler in a space free of judgment and shame. My goal is to create that space, where you can explore at your own pace and begin to reconnect with the parts of yourself that need care and understanding.

With 12+ years of experience supporting those impacted by trauma and other challenges , I use a body-centered, relational approach. I help clients slow down, tune into their bodies, and notice how the past shapes their present. Through curiosity, mindfulness, and compassion, I guide healing and deeper connection with self and others.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who provides trauma-informed therapy for adults, with a focus on anxiety, perfectionism, and attachment-related concerns. I earned my degree from the University of Alabama and have specialized training in evidence-based, attachment-focused approaches.

Melyse Behavioral & Wellness is a small group practice that empowers, supports and helps clients thrive through their journey. We are a small practice designed to meet the support We have a long history working with kids in the foster care system. I work with clients from various walks of life ages 12 years and older a variety of different emotional difficulties find a way to improve the quality of your relationships with family and friends. You’re taking the first step, and I congratulate you for that because it’s not an easy thing to do.

I am a mother of 3 children with autism. I have completed my undergraduate studies at Kent State, My graduate studies at Capella University where I did residency in Chicago and Atlanta. I have almost 7 years of experience in the field working in collaboration with ODJFS to help children and families. I live on a small hobby farm in Ohio and enjoy the outdoors.

I'm a warm, inquisitive and open minded soul, with a lifetime of challenging personal experiences. You are not alone and I would be honored to support you in your journey to peace, healing, and resolution.

What was your path to becoming a mental health provider?

I always had a desire to understand people and didn't realize there was a profession centered around my curiosity until college. I was also very intrigued with trying to understand my emotions growing up and because I struggled, I developed a desire to help others through their life challenges. I started providing support services to families and volunteers through a mentoring agency, which later led to interning at a psychiatric outpatient facility, to working with foster children providing therapy and to also growing my private practice here with Alma working with adults and children.

What should someone know about working with you?

I believe I am relatable and open to the sharing of myself with the understanding and expectation that you will be entrusting your vulnerabilities with me in session. I will challenge your thoughts, your patterns and your assumptions, and I give homework routinely as an extension of our time together to keep you active and engaged until we meet again.

How do you continue learning and building new skills?

I am committed to being a life-long learner. I take courses and trainings annually, listen to and learn from seasoned clinicians and try to stay afloat of new groundbreaking research related to treatments and techniques surrounding mental health.

"Success for me, is helping others create the wellness they desire."

Actively certified in psychiatry and family practice supports my approach to integrated mental health care. I bring to you over 21 years of experience as an NP. Integrating the identification of mental health disorders and physical disorders such as low testosterone, hormone imbalance, thyroid disorders and vitamin deficiency are key steps to improve overall health. Focused care on the mind and bodies interconnected factors is my passion.

Evidence-Based Practices are great Words. Real life takes adaptation, acceptance, and attunement. Most people come to therapy not out of brokenness, but because they are stuck on the Map of Life, in a cul-de-sac. Patti is able to meet online, or in person in Slavic Village and Barnesville. Partnering with LGBTQIA, Prescribers, and Recovery supports to help patients connect with care for their healthiest self.

Family dynamics can be one of the biggest challenges we face, and one of the most difficult things in our lives to manage. Relationships are hard, both with partners and with children. Do you find that your children sometimes feel like more of a burden than a joy? Are you finding your child's behaviors challenging or unmanageable? Maybe something is going on with your child that is more than "just a phase." Is parenting with your partner often stressful? Do you feel like you're not being heard and your relationship is unsatisfying? If you find that you are overwhelmed or consistently frustrated, maybe you need some support.

I have 15 years of clinical experience working with parents, children and families. I work with families to identify priorities and focus on the goals that will make everyone’s lives more enjoyable and fulfilling. I use Family Systems Therapy and Child-Parent Psychotherapy to support building positive connections between couples, parents and children.

I can help you by offering parenting support and strategies that will help make positive and lasting changes for you and your family. If you’re concerned about your relationship with your partner or your child’s behaviors, call for a free consultation. There are great opportunities for growth and change, and things CAN get better!

Anthony Velez has experience providing compassionate care across multiple psychiatric settings. He specializes in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma related disorders. Utilizing principles from acceptance and commitment therapy, he empowers patients to develop psychological flexibility, build resilience, and live more meaningful lives aligned with their values.

When we live in spaces of meeting other people’s expectations, how can we ever discover who we authentically are? My role as a therapist is to create a space where you are able to be authentically yourself. We are not simple and isolated beings. We are influenced and impacted by various different relationships and experiences throughout our lives. There is no road map on how to be. So, let’s create it together.

I am a trauma informed Independent Couple and Family Therapist, which allows me to hold space and acknowledge the multitude of different factors that influence a person or couple. I received my Master's from Appalachian State University in Marriage and Family Therapy with a certificate of Multicultural Counseling.

As a queer, neurodiverse, 2nd generation Martinican American, I understand the importance of providing culturally responsive and affirming care. I believe that therapy deserves a person - centered approach putting emphasis on the need for collaboration and consent throughout the whole experience. Transparency and honesty are priorities for me as a therapist to ensure there is an ability to create trust and understanding from the start of services.

Being neurodiverse, it is important for my clients to understand that I work with your brain rather than against it. Allowing for multiple possibilities and ways to navigate difficult experiences to ensure that what is being explored is supportive, inclusive and accessible to all of my clients without the experience of shame and challenges internalized ableism.

Clients that are most successful are willing to be challenged, self-reflect, being willing to try something new and learn to be comfortable with being uncomfortable. I feel privileged to be able to be part of your journey.