Family therapy and counseling in Akron, OH

HI, I'm Melissa Welch, and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S) in the State of Ohio.

How come these "tell us about yourself" questions seem so awkward? I'm much better in real life. After all, it is an energy exchange, right? Let's connect and see if we vibe!

Welcome. I’m a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) with a Master of Social Work and a degree in psychology from The Ohio State University. With over five years of experience in mental and behavioral health—including four years of providing therapy—I offer a safe, inclusive space for healing and growth. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or identity-related challenges, I’m here to help you feel seen, supported, and empowered in your journey.

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Ohio and a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC). I specialize in supporting adults navigating trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions.

In addition to my clinical training, I’ve completed extensive continuing education in trauma-informed care, addiction treatment, grief work, and other evidence-based practices. I also incorporate EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help clients process and heal from distressing, painful, or overwhelming experiences in a safe and supported way.

My goal is to provide a space where clients feel genuinely seen, understood, and supported as they move through both healing and change

Feeling comfortable in our shoes is essential to a creative and self-fulfilling journey and

life. The struggle to reach out for support can be an obstacle that leads to isolation,

loneliness, anxiety, and depression and is often the first and most challenging step to

take. I congratulate you on your courage and willingness to imagine and hope for

changes that will help you be more comfortable in the shoes that you wear!

I have worked as a mental health practitioner for over 40 years and have encountered

many of the challenges that people face in their daily lives. Along the way, I have

discovered my own creative needs and now walk as a transgender therapist willing to

join you as a partner on a path to self-discovery. Giving voice to our hopes, dreams,

and desires is often an essential part of that journey, and I would be glad to join you as

a partner in your self-discovery and growth.

As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I look at the web of relationships and environment that shape who you are. I draw on strengths that you may have overlooked (and help you develop new ones) to get you where you want to go.

I have a seasoned background in both faith-based and nondenominational family dynamics. I have had the honor of helping couples and individuals build healthy parameters for their future. If you are at a crossroads -- whether it is a new phase of life (e.g., marriage, job, separation) or you are simply looking for a fresh approach to life -- I can help.

I view each person as uniquely valuable, interesting, and powerful. Because I am so convinced of your potential, I am committed to spending the quality time you need to recognize these traits in yourself and make a real impact in your relationships. Wherever life finds you at this moment, there is a bright path ahead! Let’s discover it together.

Hello and welcome! I'm a clinical psychologist specializing in trauma and related challenges. I understand how life's difficulties can feel overwhelming sometimes, and I enjoy working with people to help them get back to feeling like themselves again. I graduated with my doctorate in 2011 and am licensed in New York and Ohio. I also hold Diplomate status with the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress.