Melissa A. Stephen, LLMSW, MFA, E-RYT is a clinician, educator, and researcher with a dynamic background in integrated health, trauma-informed care, and the arts. She earned her Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan, specializing in Interpersonal Practice in Integrated Health, Mental Health, and Substance Abuse, and holds an MFA in Studio Arts from Purdue University. Melissa is an EMDR trained practitioner, a certified yoga instructor (E-RYT 200), and an experienced animal-assisted therapy provider, integrating evidence-based psychotherapy with somatic, creative, and human-animal bond modalities. Clinically, she supports individuals navigating trauma, neurodiversity, chronic pain and illness, traumatic brain injuries, food addiction patterns and related disorders at a private practice in Ann Arbor.
Identifying as a person with disabilities and neurodiversity, Melissa’s personal experiences with systemic adversity and stigma shape her trauma-informed, strengths-based clinical approach. She is committed to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility through her practice, research, and advocacy. Her professional journey spans leadership roles in education, nonprofit organizing, and yoga studio ownership. Personally, Melissa aspires to visit all 50 states by her 50th birthday and challenges herself to read as many books annually as her chronological age–an ever-evolving pursuit of growth, curiosity, and connection.