Meet Mel- Michigan Licensed Psychotherapist
Mel Youngblood, MA LPC
Hey, choosing a therapist is like going on a date. You should do your homework before you invest time, money or energy. That’s why I offer a free meeting to see if we’re a good fit and if you vibe with me.
I’m Mel, I have been working in the mental health field since 1998. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and relationship problems. I provide therapy to teens and adults and I have seen it all. I have worked just about everywhere-schools, jails, psych wards, State government, community mental health, drug rehabs, the VA and I have been in private practice since 2008.
I know firsthand how challenging it can be to experience trauma — I am a trauma survivor myself. I have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault and narcissistic abuse. My personal experiences, combined with professional training and experience, guide me in offering empathy, understanding, and safety in every session. You are not alone, and therapy can be a place to feel truly seen, heard, and supported.
My Approach
I take a trauma-informed, person-centered approach to therapy. This means that everything I do is grounded in respect, collaboration, and safety. I meet you where you are, moving at your pace and honoring your unique experiences and identity. That being said, I don’t take notes, I don’t continuously nod, I often have dogs barking in the background and I dress casually. I can be direct and even funny at times and I will often share simple details about my life with you (expect dog updates or travel shenanigans) since we are building a relationship together. My approach is not sterile, clinical or just affirming. You want change and that takes work. My ideal client is suffering and motivated even though change can be uncomfortable and unfamiliar but you will always be supported and encouraged. Most of our problems occur in relationship and relationship is also what restores our trust and allows us to experience ourselves again-authentic and messy and hilarious.
My work draws on evidence-based practices that help you:
Understand the impact of trauma on your mind and body
Reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms
Build emotional regulation skills
Restore trust in yourself and others
Reconnect with a sense of safety and resilience
Who I Work With
I provide therapy for adults across Michigan who are seeking support for:
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety disorders, panic, and chronic stress
Depression or persistent low mood
Life transitions, burnout, or emotional overwhelm
Relationship problems
If you’ve felt unsafe, unheard, or unsure where to start, therapy with me offers a gentle, compassionate, and confidential space to explore your experiences and begin healing. I understand how vulnerable you may feel but I know you are safe and will not be judged or shamed. You are not too much.
Why I Do This Work
Having lived through my own trauma, I understand the courage it takes to reach out for help. I want to create the kind of therapy space I wish I had — one where clients feel safe, respected, and empowered.
Therapy is not about “fixing” you. It’s about helping you reclaim a sense of safety, connection, and hope in your life. Let me lead the path and let’s walk it together.
How to Get Started
I offer a free 15-minute consultation to help you determine if working together is a good fit. You deserve care that is safe, understanding, and tailored to you.
When I’m not trying to help others as a professional Swearapist, I am usually at the beach with my two dogs, doing yoga so I can chill out, throwing lead downrange, or hiking in some remote forest searching for wildflowers. Yeah, I am different. So are you. These are good things. Come as you are. Let’s be weird together and heal some bad shit.
Email @ Melissa@TherapeiaCounseling.com with your questions