Meet Melissa helphrey, MSW

I am a highly experienced social worker with over five years of practice supporting individuals and families across the lifespan, including adults, adolescents, children, and infants. My work is rooted in trauma-informed care, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments that foster healing and growth. I bring extensive knowledge of child dependency and the child welfare system, and I am skilled in providing immediate support through crisis intervention. With a holistic and compassionate approach, I strive to empower clients, strengthen families, and promote resilience in the face of life’s challenges.

As a therapist, my approach is collaborative and grounded in real-life experiences. I believe that healing happens when clients feel truly heard and supported, so I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can be yourself without fear or hesitation. My work is trauma-focused, meaning I honor the impact that past experiences may have on your present, while helping you build resilience and tools for growth. Together, we’ll work side by side—drawing from your strengths, lived experiences, and goals—to explore challenges and create meaningful change. My priority is to ensure you feel comfortable, empowered, and respected every step of the way.

First-Responders, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Abuse Disorders, Stress Management, Domestic Violence, Sexual Abuse, Child Abuse/Neglect, Trauma, Child Dependency, Adoptions

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy

Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work

Licensed Clinical Social Worker /  Psychotherapist 

• Adult Mental Health First Aid USA from National Council for Mental Wellbeing

• Common Mental Health Diagnoses

• Medical Neglect Training

• Conflict Resolution

• Mandel 4-day Basic Methodology Domestic Violence Informed Training

• Offender Accountability in Domestic Violence Cases Training

• Understanding Domestic Violence 101 Part 1 & 2

• High-Risk Factors for Family Violence Training

• Trauma Informed Care 101 Part 1 & 2 

• Enhancing Family Safety in Domestic Violence Cases Part 1 & 2

• Smart and Safe Interviewing Training

• Child Sexual Abuse: Understanding the Role of Medical Assessment and Intervention

• Promoting Family Connections: Sibling Placement and Planful Transitions Training

• Substance Exposed Newborn Training

• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Training

• Narcan Training

Full rate is $100 but I accept sliding fee as low as $50.00 per hour for individual therapy and $100.00 couples/families.

English 

Email me today, melissa@readytoelevate.org

A Registered Clinical Social Work Intern in Florida is an individual who has met specific educational and examination requirements and is in the process of obtaining the supervised experience needed for full licensure as a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state. 

The ultimate goal of this internship period is to prepare the individual for practice as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), ensuring they have the necessary practical experience and professional supervision to provide competent and ethical clinical services.

In summary, a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern in Florida is a professional in training. They work under supervision to meet the requirements for full licensure as an LCSW and provide clinical services while accumulating the required experience.

Melissa is registered as an intern until 2030 but anticipates being fully licensed in 2027.

Melissa is supervised by Holly Hintz, LCSW- SW19758