Melissa Shelton
(She/Her/They)
Sylva is home! I grew up on Cedar Cliff Lake and I love this little town (and all it’s quirks)! I’m happy to give back to the community that has helped me grow!
Let’s get personal (I believe a huge part of therapy is knowing your therapist and relating)! I am married with children, and a lively crew of pets! I enjoy herbalism, nature, board games, TTRPGs, MTG (Commander) and playing video games (Nintendo Nerd, here!). I offer TTRPG (D&D) groups as part of my therapeutic groups!
I’m my best self when I’m exploring trails and waterfalls, taking road trips, joining local community events, or creating art (photography, crafts, gardening, and baking). My own mental health journey — learning to reconnect mind and body — inspires the work I do. I value shared experience, authenticity, and education as a way to truly connect with clients.
I earned my Master of Social Work from WCU in 2020 and have since supported children, adolescents, and their caregivers through life’s transitions. Transitions often bring anxiety, grief, and identity shifts for so many, reminding us how challenging rediscovery can be during times of change — whether navigating loss, shifts in family roles, school transitions, career changes, or new beginnings.
I love witnessing growth — seeing people discover their strengths, reconnect with self-love, and strengthen relationships. I am LGBTQIA-affirming, poly/kink-friendly, and currently training in sex therapy (seeking AASECT certification) to better support all aspects of sexual wellness and intimacy.
Wherever you are in your story, I’m here to help you navigate the transition and move forward with confidence.
Hi there! I’m happy to know you’re reading this. It means you’ve taken an important step in putting yourself first. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of what comes next, you don’t have to navigate it all alone. Life can take unexpected turns, and reaching out for support can be a meaningful first step toward feeling more grounded and connected to yourself. Whether you’re coping with anxiety or depression, healing from past experiences, adjusting to a major life transition, or navigating difficult relationships and boundaries, therapy can offer a safe space to pause, reflect, and begin moving forward.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I see therapy as a collaborative relationship built on trust, compassion, and genuine human connection. I want you to feel comfortable bringing your whole self into our work together, without judgment or pressure to have all the answers. I’ll meet you where you are, listen closely to your experiences, and support you in understanding yourself with greater kindness and clarity.
Together, we can explore the patterns, beliefs, and experiences that may be affecting your life today. I believe you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to walk alongside you as you discover what you need and what matters most, I love cheering for my clients!
I work with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem challenges, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. I also support clients who want to feel more confident in themselves, strengthen their relationships, and better understand how past experiences shape their thoughts, feelings, and choices.
Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy reading, gardening, and spending time outdoors hiking. I also raise 10 ducks and care for a wild dog (that I love to train) both of which bring plenty of joy, activity, and connection to my everyday life. My passions are centered around nature, curiosity, and the simple routines that help create a sense of grounding and balance.
My hope is that therapy helps you move beyond simply getting through the day and toward a life that feels more authentic, balanced, and fulfilling. You don’t need to have everything figured out before beginning. Wherever you are right now, we can start there—together.