

Hello! I’m Carmen, I’ve been a therapist for over the past ten years. I have a masters degree in Social Work with a concentration in trauma and mental health. I also hold my license in clinical social work.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience working in hospitals, inpatient psychiatric facilities and in private practice. I seek to provide a warm, collaborative, and problem-solving approach to therapy, working with individuals across the lifespan. With specialized training in geriatric psychology, I support individuals facing complex medical issues, chronic illness, and end-of-life concerns. As my practice has grown, I have also come to enjoy working with adults of all ages as they navigate life transitions, build self-esteem, and develop healthier relationships. I am committed to creating an engaging therapeutic environment that fosters resilience, clarity, and meaningful growth.
You may be feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, especially if you’ve experienced trauma, toxic relationships, or emotional pain that keeps resurfacing. It can feel overwhelming trying to move forward while still carrying the weight of the past. You don’t have to do this alone. I provide a supportive space where you can begin to understand your story, break free from old patterns, and move toward a more peaceful, meaningful, and purpose-driven life.
As a Stanford-trained psychiatrist, I work closely with Dr. Sethi at Metabolic Psychiatry Labs (MPL) to manage serious mental illness conditions including bipolar, depression, binge eating disorder, and psychosis. I am trained in multiple types of psychotherapy, including CBT, psychodynamic, DBT, ACT, and Internal Family Systems. I believe in treating the root cause of mental illness.
~Meliorism- the belief that the world gets better; the belief that humans can improve the world. --This is not only the name of my practice, Meliorism Counseling LLC, but it's a core value I truly believe in. Using a focus on relationships, I work with individuals, couples, and families to obtain a sense of overall well-being and balance. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor in the State of Florida I have had the privilege to work in the dependency system, child advocacy setting, not-for-profit sector and private agencies. Services are available in office or through teletherapy.
I’m a board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and former Navy Corpsman with over 20 years of medical experience. My background spans oncology, ICU, and community mental health, which allows me to care for clients across the lifespan—from children to older adults—with a well-rounded, compassionate perspective.
I take a holistic, patient-centered approach, focusing on truly understanding your unique needs and goals. In addition to treating conditions like anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, and mood disorders, I offer advanced treatment options such as Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), hormone therapy, and ketamine infusion therapy for those who haven’t found relief with traditional approaches.
I know that seeking therapy can feel overwhelming — especially if you’re carrying a lot on your own. I believe deeply in the strength, warmth, and resilience that come from our cultura, and I bring that understanding into every session.
I work with clients who want support navigating anxiety, trauma, stress, and life transitions, particularly when cultural identity and family dynamics play an important role. My goal is to create a space where you feel seen, respected, and understood, while also using research-backed tools that truly help you move forward.
Welcome to my page! My name is Melissa Benzaquen. I was born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela. I am here to provide you with emotional support and the tools you need to cope with anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
You are not alone! Uncertain moments, occasional loneliness, difficulty making friends, searching for a life partner, and other life circumstances can be painful and challenging. It would be an honor to help you to build optimism and find purpose in your life.
Today, I will provide you with a warm and safe place where you feel comfortable in this transformative journey, and the goal is to achieve happiness and peace.
Great to meet you!
I'm a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in the mental health psychiatric field ranging from child and adult outpatient care to substance abuse treatment. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Ohio University and Master of Science in Psychiatry from St, Thomas University in Miami, FL.


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