LCSW, 8 years of experience
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Florida, with a Master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania and eight years of clinical experience. I strive to foster a shame-free therapeutic environment that is LGBTQIA+ affirming and trauma-informed. For individuals navigating eating disorders, I draw from a Health at Every Size (HAES) and All Foods Fit framework to help you challenge diet culture and heal your relationship with food and your body. No matter what brings you to therapy, my goal is to help you cultivate self-compassion, emotional resilience, and a stronger sense of confidence in yourself.
Our first session is an opportunity to begin building a safe and collaborative foundation for our work together. I want to hear your story and understand what feels most important for you right now. We’ll discuss your hopes for therapy, past experiences (if applicable), and any concerns you may have so we can tailor our approach to your needs. If this is your first time in therapy, I’ll explain the process, answer your questions, and help you feel comfortable as we begin this journey toward healing and growth.
I bring a compassionate, adaptable approach that integrates several evidence-based modalities, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), attachment-based therapy, and trauma-informed care. As a queer-identified, nonbinary therapist, I offer an informed and affirming perspective for clients exploring identity, relationships, and self-acceptance. My background includes extensive experience supporting individuals with eating disorders, trauma, and identity-related stressors. I strive to meet each client where they are, balancing validation with gentle challenge to foster lasting, meaningful change.
I work best with individuals who are ready to deepen their self-understanding and move toward a more authentic and balanced life. I especially enjoy supporting clients within the LGBTQ+ community who are navigating identity exploration, relationship challenges, or a sense of disconnection from self. I also specialize in treating eating disorders and body image concerns, drawing on experience across all levels of care, from outpatient therapy to residential treatment. I hope to help you live freely in your body and mind, strengthen your sense of self, and approach life with greater compassion and clarity.
I integrate attachment-based therapy across my work because the therapeutic relationship itself is often the foundation for growth and healing. I aim to create a secure and trusting space where clients can explore their emotional patterns, relational dynamics, and early attachment experiences. Through this lens, we identify how past relationships influence current challenges and build new, healthier ways of connecting, with yourself and with others.
I have extensive experience working within a fully adherent DBT program, providing both individual therapy and group skills training. During that time, I received advanced training and ongoing clinical supervision in the model. In my current practice, I integrate DBT principles to help clients strengthen emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness. DBT tools and structured exercises are available as needed to support your progress between sessions.
As a nonbinary, gender-fluid, queer therapist, I bring both personal and professional understanding to gender-affirming care. My approach is centered on curiosity, compassion, and respect for each client’s unique journey. I recognize that gender identity can involve both dysphoria and euphoria, and that exploration looks different for everyone. Together, we’ll create space to deepen self-understanding, strengthen authenticity, and move at a pace that feels safe and empowering for you.
I completed intensive training in Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) to support clients experiencing symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This structured, evidence-based approach helps individuals gradually reduce trauma-related distress and regain a sense of safety and control. While the work can be challenging, I’ve witnessed meaningful and lasting improvement in clients who engage in the process. I provide consistent guidance and emotional grounding to ensure the treatment feels manageable and supported every step of the way.
I am trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), an evidence-based approach designed to help individuals recover from trauma and reduce symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). CPT focuses on identifying and challenging unhelpful beliefs that can develop after traumatic experiences. Through structured sessions, I support clients in developing new, balanced ways of thinking that promote healing, self-compassion, and a renewed sense of safety and control.
4 ratings with written reviews
July 17, 2025
I had my first session with Mel today and was immediately impressed by her depth of knowledge and the thoughtful way she approached our conversation. She’s a truly exceptional listener who made me feel comfortable and understood from the start. I left the session feeling hopeful and supported, and I’m genuinely excited about the work we’ll do together.
May 22, 2025
I am new to seeing Mel but in two sessions I already feel more supported and set up for the future work we are going to do. They are so knowledgeable and create such a safe place to dig into stuff. Being a queer NB person it’s not always the easiest to find a therapist I resonate and trust. I’m very excited for future appointments.
March 21, 2025
I have not talked in month but I need Mel. She is like a friend but on a professional level.