

I support clients in advocating for themselves and overcoming obstacles that prevent healing. I desire to relieve pain and instill hope while concentrating on achievable objectives. I work with individuals, couples, and families.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a master’s-level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP) practicing in Florida. My experience working in residential treatment settings for mental health and substance use has shaped my commitment to compassionate, client-centered care. Through years of clinical practice, I’ve developed a deeper understanding of how thoughts, emotions, and life experiences impact daily functioning and overall well-being.
I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, respected, and understood. Like many people, I have faced personal challenges that have deepened my understanding of mental health and strengthened my empathy for those I work with. I earned my master’s degree in social work from the University of Maine and have worked in home-based family programs, residential treatment settings, and a methadone clinic providing medication-assisted treatment. Throughout my career, I’ve supported adults with dual diagnoses, trauma, mood disorders, serious mental illness, and substance use concerns, as well as older adults navigating life transitions.
I am a warm, energetic, and down-to-earth therapist who values creating a space where clients feel both supported and empowered. My background includes working with individuals and couples navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. In addition to traditional therapy, I am certified in yoga, energy work, and Florida family court mediation, allowing me to offer a more holistic perspective. I am especially passionate about helping couples restore balance and connection, as well as guiding individuals through meaningful life changes. My goal is to meet you where you are while helping you move toward where you want to be.
Hello and welcome! As a practitioner I pride myself on being understanding, empathetic, and open minded. I strive to make a safe and welcoming space for you to be you and provide support in helping you grow into the person you want to become. I will meet you where you're at and we will take the journey together, at your pace.
I have over two decades of Social Work experience. I have worked in high school settings for over 20 years with a variety of students to include: LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, ADHD, and teen parenting. Prior to working in the school setting, I worked with homeless families as well as domestic violence victims.
Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Melanie D’Souza, LMHC with six years of experience helping adults work through depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction. I am also trained in EMDR, an evidenced-based approach that can help process and heal from past experiences that continue to affect the present.
I try to keep therapy real, practical, and focused on what actually helps. You don’t need to show up with the perfect words or a clear explanation of what’s going on—that’s something we’ll figure out together.
I’m someone who listens carefully but also isn’t afraid to be direct when it’s helpful. My goal is to create a space where you can be honest, think things through, and leave sessions with a little more clarity than you came in with.
Most of all, I believe therapy works best when it feels like a genuine conversation. My role is to help you make sense of things and support you as you move toward the changes you want in your life.


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