Melanie M. Nelson, PhD

I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years experience, specializing in behavioral and cognitive-behavioral approaches for children, caregivers, and families to build strong relationships and effective family communication. I am committed to providing a safe and supportive space for families of all kinds to explore and grow together to improve behavioral and emotional health for all. My personal experience as a parent enriches my approach to therapy, allowing me to connect with caregivers facing similar struggles without criticism or shaming. I offer practical and tailored strategies and tools that children, caregivers, and families can implement at home to support emotional and behavioral well-being. For young children, I specialize in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), a highly effective approach for addressing common early-childhood mental and behavioral health concerns such as aggression, difficulty following directions or rules, attention-seeking behaviors, anxiety, and trauma. As a certified PCIT International therapist and one of only 21 Global Trainers world-wide, I have expertise in connecting with children and caregivers to implement effective strategies for improving child behavior and well-being. I love the stories that caregivers tell me when they complete PCIT--how their child is more successful at school, how their child has strong self-esteem, how they are able to take their child with them to the store or a restaurant without stress, and, most importantly, how much they truly enjoy time with their child. For older children and teens with acting out behaviors and their families, I use a similar approach, called Parent Management Training or PMT. I particularly enjoy working with children and teens experiencing symptoms related to ADHD, Autism, or learning disorders. I aim to help caregivers understand neurodivergent thinking patterns and communication styles to promote stronger relationships and improved mental health outcomes. Just as every child is different, my treatment approach is tailored to each child and family based on their needs and values. I am originally from the Chicago area but now call Florida home with my spouse, two kids, two dogs, two cats, and two tortoises. In order to increase access to therapy for children and families, I offer evening appointments. In addition, I provide telehealth therapy services for clients living in most US States and territories to provide families with an effective and convenient therapy option.