Hi and welcome! I am trained as a psychotherapist and received my Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from St. Thomas University in Miami, Florida. I have over fifteen years of clinical experience and I specialize in trauma, family systems, addiction and LGBTQ+ issues. I am an EMDR practitioner and a Florida Board Approved Supervisor for mental health counselors and marriage and family therapists seeking licensure.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
In our first session, we will get to know each other and work together to identify your goals for treatment.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
I have been working in the mental health field in multiple capacities. I have extensive experience in treating complex trauma and PTSD. I have worked with first responders, veterans, survivors of sexual, emotional and physical abuse, human trafficking, natural disasters.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I enjoy working with people of all walks of life and help to address a wide range of issues. I specialize in trauma, PTSD, addiction, severe mental illnesses and LGBTQ+ issues. I also enjoy working with couples, families and cultural minorities.
Psychodynamic
I use this theory to help clients uncover unconscious material, explore past experiences, and understand current behaviors. My role is to facilitate self-awareness and emotional insight. The ultimate goal is to help clients achieve greater self-understanding, heal from past trauma, and build healthier relationships.
EMDR
I am an EMDR practitioner since 2014. EMDR is an evidence-based therapy that helps clients process traumatic memories and reduce the emotional charge they carry. The therapist guides the client through the process of identifying troubling memories, using bilateral stimulation to help "reprocess" them, and replacing negative beliefs with healthier, adaptive ones. The goal is to help the client integrate their traumatic experiences in a way that allows for emotional healing and improved mental well-being.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Through cognitive restructuring and behavioral interventions, this approach helps the client to reduce emotional distress, improve their coping abilities, and develop healthier thinking patterns. The key is empowering the client to take an active role in their own healing process by practicing skills and applying them in real-world situations.
11 ratings with written reviews
January 13, 2026
i'm very excited about working with you and feel very optimistic about our upcoming sessions!
December 2, 2025
She is able to hear and listen to what issues there are and point out connections in the traumas or impactful events in ones' life to then see what solutions would be beneficial.
November 11, 2025
I’ve tried many therapist and always felt like the conversation went dead after feeling like I had to lead the sessions. Melina made me feel comfortable and like she was genuinely interested in learning about me and addressing my concerns. She remained engaged, questioned me, quoted things back and challenged me to dig deeper. I look forward to speaking with her again.