Dr. Melody Madaris , LCPC

Dr. Melody Madaris is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with more than 14 years of experience helping people navigate trauma, substance use challenges, and mood disorders such as bipolar disorder. She brings a direct, empathetic approach developed over a long career in community mental health, where practical strategies meet a focus on building trust and connection.

Alongside clinical work, Dr. Madaris oversees a large team and multiple programs, managing more than 60 staff members as the administrator for co-occurring disorders - addressing both substance use and mental health needs. Her responsibilities include leadership of a residential treatment facility, six outpatient co-occurring programs, a 24-hour mobile crisis program, an employee assistance program, a mental health awareness initiative, and a substance abuse prevention program. This administrative background informs a systems-minded approach to care and an understanding of treatment continuity across settings.

Dr. Madaris believes that meaningful change requires more than intention - it takes focused effort, support, and practical skills to identify where change is needed and how to begin and maintain it. She works with individuals to set clear goals, develop actionable steps, and sustain progress over time, offering guidance rooted in both clinical experience and program leadership.

Therapeutic Approaches for Online Care

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) supports people in clarifying their values and taking committed action toward a meaningful life, even when difficult thoughts or feelings are present. It is often helpful for individuals coping with persistent stress, grief, or patterns of avoidance.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors, offering practical tools to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, and mood instability. CBT is action-oriented and useful for addressing specific problems with structured strategies.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) teaches skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness. It can be especially valuable for people struggling with intense emotions, impulsive behaviors, or relationship challenges.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. Dr. Madaris works with clients to assess their needs, goals, and preferences, and will tailor or combine methods to create a treatment plan that fits each person’s life and circumstances.

Online therapy offers flexible ways to engage in that collaborative work through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging. These options make it easier to schedule sessions around work, family, or other commitments and to access care from different locations, while preserving the continuity of care provided by licensed professionals and therapists.