Meet Our Care Team

I work with individuals and couples with impulsive behaviors, chaotic relationships and perfectionists.

I've seen how early intervention changes everything- and how the body remembers what the mind needs to let go of. Together we'll navigate your experiences, using evidence-based tools and the power of the mind-body connection, so your emotions and experiences no longer direct your life-you do. 

Children (8+), teens, adults, and older adults experiencing: 

• Life shifts: loss, trauma, identity exploration, life changes
• Emotional overwhelm: anxiety, depression, impulsivity, self-harm
• Self-sabotaging patterns: avoidance, apathy, unhealthy boundaries
• Substance use, body image issues, relationship challenges

You will find a compassionate guide who respects your strengths, and helps you integrate new coping tools- mindfully, gently, and powerfully. 

• Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from Boston College.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
• Motivational Interviewing (MI)
• Trauma-Informed Care
• Trauma-Sensitive Yoga

Proud NC mom of two, and learner at heart. Connect with me over research on trauma-informed yoga or stop me for a quick chat if you see me in the neighborhood- I love meeting local families! You are most likely to find me running, playing with my daughters, talking about travel with my husband, or in a bookstore finding my next fun read. 

I work with individual and family clients with big emotions and behaviors.

I’m dedicated to doing what works—right now—for you and your family. If you’ve tried therapy before and are still seeking change, you’re not alone. I partner with clients to create bold, evidence-based strategies that lead to real growth. My mission? Highly effective care that makes your life richer and more meaningful

Children (6+), teens, adults, and families dealing with:

• High-conflict dynamics, self-injury, school/work avoidance
• Impulse control issues: lying, rule-breaking, employment struggles
• Neurodevelopmental challenges: ADHD, Autism
• Mood disorders: depression, anxiety, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation, Borderline Personality traits

We’ll collaborate to reduce barriers, expand skills, and empower both you and your family toward independence, resilience, and harmony.

• DBT, including DBT-C for children and Radically Open DBT
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Family Systems Therapy
• Parent-Child Interaction Therapy

I have my PhD from UNC-Chapel Hill.

I'm just "real"- a wife, mom of twins, marathon dream-chaser, board-game lover, and coffee shop explorer. Beyond the therapy room, I'm deeply committed to bringing evidence-based practices to parents, schools and communities-so mental health support is accessible, practical, and rooted in real science.  I serve as a voluntary board member for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Triangle, where I advocate for mentoring and mental health access for youth across our region. Spot me with my therapy dog around Raleigh? Don't hesitate to wave and say hi!

Business Development & Marketing Director at RDU Therapy

As the first point of contact for many, I help families and individuals feel seen and supported even before their first session. I build local relationships with schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations to ensure RDU Therapy’s evidence-based services are not just accessible, but integrated into how our region cares for mental wellness.

• You may hear from me when you reach out—we’re working to make those initial steps as warm, welcoming, and helpful as possible.
• I coordinate with clinicians to ensure clients get connected to the right provider and community resources.
• I share RDU Therapy’s mission and values broadly, working side-by-side with community partners to lift mental health standards across our region.

I’m a proud North Carolina native, happily married with two wonderful kids and a sweet dog who keeps us smiling. I genuinely enjoy meeting new people and finding ways to make them feel comfortable, cared for, and at home. Whether I’m spending time with my family around Raleigh or welcoming someone to RDU Therapy, I believe in treating folks with warmth, respect, and a whole lot of heart. It’s important to me that everyone I meet feels seen, supported, and part of something meaningful.

Therapy Dog & Professional Snuggler

Often found napping in Dr. Mel's Office

I’m Doc—a tricolored Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a calm heart, big ears, and an even bigger love for people. My job is to help clients feel at ease, whether they’re nervous about starting therapy or just need a little extra comfort. I specialize in quiet companionship, gentle curiosity, and perfectly timed tail wags. You can usually find me curled up near Dr. Mel or offering soft support to those who need it most.

• Staying calm through chaos and conflict
• Tolerating noisy kiddos with grace (and a little nap afterward)
• Approaching big emotions with patience and kindness
•  Breaking the ice with first-time clients
• Providing hugs, paw taps, and soft encouragement
• Creating a cozy, welcoming energy in the room

I was trained locally by a skilled dog trainer who helped me learn how to support clients of all ages with confidence and calm.

When I’m off duty, you’ll find me living the good life: cruising in the car, running around imagining I can catch a squirrel, or snuggled up at home. I never turn down a belly rub or a new friend—and I believe everyone deserves a gentle welcome and a warm place to land.