About Me

Meet Melissa

I believe healing happens when insight, compassion, and the nervous system work together. Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, capable, and deeply self-aware, yet still find themselves overwhelmed by anxiety, emotional reactivity, or patterns they can’t seem to shift on their own. My role is to help you slow things down, understand what’s happening beneath the surface, and build a steadier, more grounded relationship with yourself.

I received my graduate training at the University of Southern California, where I was honored to be a Dean’s Fellow, and completed my undergraduate studies at New York University. My clinical experience spans schools, medical and healthcare settings, and private practice, allowing me to work with clients across a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and life stages.

Because of this breadth, I bring both depth and perspective to the therapy room. I’ve supported children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and identity-related stress, and I approach each person with curiosity rather than assumptions.

Melissa Ellis

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

My style is warm, attuned, and collaborative. I integrate evidence-based approaches with a mind-body lens, helping clients not only understand their experiences intellectually, but also feel safer and more regulated in their bodies. Therapy with me is not about “fixing” you, it’s about helping you reconnect with your own inner stability, resilience, and clarity.

I work best with clients who are ready for meaningful inner work and are open to exploring both emotional patterns and practical tools for change.

Healing with Heart. Grounded in Compassion.

I’m dedicated to helping adults navigate anxiety, trauma, and major life transitions. My work blends practical therapeutic tools with deep empathy, and, when clients wish, a connection to Jewish values and spirituality.

I believe healing isn’t about erasing your past; it’s about discovering strength, balance, and clarity in your present.

Frequently Asked Questions

Clear answers about therapy, EMDR, scheduling, and what to expect so you can feel confident taking the next step.

What is therapy with you like?

Therapy with me is collaborative, grounded, and deeply attuned to your nervous system. Sessions may include talking, noticing body sensations, working with memories, learning practical tools, and gently exploring patterns that show up in your relationships and inner world. We move at your pace; nothing is forced.

I work primarily with:
 
  • Anxiety and chronic worry
  • Trauma and complex / developmental trauma
  • Intergenerational and cultural trauma
  • Identity-related stress
  • Emotional regulation and overwhelm
  • Perfectionism, people-pleasing, and burnout

 

If you’re unsure whether we’re a good fit, you’re welcome to reach out and ask.

I integrate several evidence-based and depth-oriented approaches, including:

  • EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
  • CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)
  • Psychodynamic therapy
  • Somatic and nervous-system-based tools


Rather than sticking to one rigid method, I tailor therapy to what your system needs.

Not at all. While my work is informed by cultural and intergenerational context when relevant, therapy is always centered on you. Cultural or spiritual themes are only included if they feel supportive and meaningful to you.

EMDR is not hypnosis and you remain fully in control the entire time. Many people describe it as surprisingly gentle. We always begin with preparation and regulation skills so you feel resourced before working with difficult material.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some clients come for short-term support around a specific issue, while others choose longer-term work. We regularly check in about goals and pacing.

Yes. I offer secure telehealth sessions, which many clients find just as effective as in-person therapy.

You can reach out through the contact form on my website. From there, we’ll discuss next steps and determine whether working together feels like a good fit.