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Melanie Ryerson(She/Her/Hers)

(She/Her/Hers)
Master of Arts (MA) - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Florida
Anxiety - Loss, grief, and bereavement-Perfectionism-Sexual harassment & assault- Trauma-

Many health insurance plans reimburse 50-80% of session fees with out-of-network therapists. Learn if your plan qualifies.

AboutSpecialtiesLocationsInsurance & FeesTestimonialsPublications

Professional statement

Hi, I’m Melanie (she/her).

Before becoming a therapist, I spent years in the classroom supporting teens with ADHD, autism, and other learning differences. I learned firsthand how powerful it can be to have someone on your side who “gets it” and knows how to listen. Now, I help teens and adults navigate life’s challenges with resilience, self-acceptance, and grace, even when things feel heavy or overwhelming.

I bring to my work my own story, which includes the loss of a brother to addiction and my father to cancer. These experiences have deepened my empathy and commitment to helping others find peace and purpose amid life’s hardest challenges.

Beyond one-on-one sessions, I also lead workshops for nonprofits on recovery from loss, church hurt, and sexual trauma. I’m a faith-affirming and LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, and I strive to create a safe space where you can bring your whole self—no edits, no filters, no pretending. My hope is for you to feel truly seen, understood, and supported on this journey.

I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, an Adjunct Professor at USF’s Judy Genshaft Honors College, and, like many of the strong women I work with, I know what it’s like to carry the weight of high expectations. As a high-achieving woman myself, I understand how burnout, anxiety, and grief can feel like relentless obstacles—especially when you’re giving so much to your work, relationships, and self-growth.


Message to clients

Finding yourself burned out and drained? Feeling overwhelmed? Needing more reassurance at work or in close relationships? I get it, despite giving your all and playing it by the book, you find yourself feeling behind. Maybe recent stressors have nudged you to consider seeking help. Maybe you have past grief or trauma that comes up from time to time. Together we can find encouragement and support to live a life that is balanced, confident, and full of hope.

The first step takes courage, yet the freedom on the other side is worth it. Reach out to schedule a free phone consult with me today. Just a short phone call to ask questions and vibe check. It’s time you prioritize your wellness. It’s time to prioritize you.


Work and Education

Gulf Grove Therapy, Private Practice Owner, 2023 - Present
University of South Florida, Adjunct Professor, 2024 - Present

University of Central Florida, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, 2021
University of South Florida, Secondary Education with ESE specialty, 2014

Licensure

Florida: MH23478

Languages

English

Specialties

Anxiety - Coping with excessive worry, nervousness, or stress; intense discomfort in social settings (social anxiety); sudden and intense feelings of panic (panic disorder)

Loss, grief, and bereavement - Emotionally preparing for the anticipated passing of a loved one; managing feelings and reactions to a death or loss of significance; support during the process of healing and acceptance

Perfectionism - Coping with feelings of anxiety, stress, self-criticism, and procrastination; addressing unrealistic expectations of one’s self and negatively comparing self to others

Sexual harassment & assault - Caring support along the pathway to safety, wellbeing, and healing for survivors of sexual abuse and assault

Trauma - Coping and healing after threatening or scary events, such as witnessing accidents or experiencing sexual, verbal, emotional, or physical abuse




Clientele

  • Adults (24+)
  • Teenagers (13-18)
  • Young adults (18-24)

Locations & Hours

Current weekday availability! Schedule a consult today to hear how I can help you with you trauma-related anxiety!


Insurance

  • Aetna

Out-of-pocket fees

Get reimbursed for sessions with Melanie Ryerson

Many health insurance plans reimburse 50-80% of session fees with out-of-network therapists. Learn if your health insurance plan qualifies.

  • Individual sessions:$200 (50min)

Additional session information

Out-of-network billing options

This provider can support you in getting reimbursement from your insurance company if you are seeking out-of-network reimbursement. Here are the out-of-network billing options they provide:

  • Super billing
  • Courtesy billing
Payment options
  • Credit Card
  • Debit Card
Session frequency

Frequency of sessions this provider offers to see clients once you are an established client.

  • Weekly
  • Every other week
Therapist's note

I am in-network with Aetna. For those with other PPO insurance plans, you might be able to get reimbursed for out-of-network therapy! Send me a message and I am happy to check your OON benefits.


Client testimonials

"We clicked well."
- Zencare client May 2024
"Made me feel so comfortable. Felt like I’ve known her for years."
- Zencare client August 2024

Publications

Book a Free Initial Consultation

The practice will call you for a free 10min phone call to discuss your needs and ensure a match!

This provider has no upcoming call times available.