LICENSED SOCIAL WORK ASSOCIATE INDEPENDENT CLINICAL
Pronouns: She/Her
Melissa became a therapist because she knows what it feels like to carry trauma, grief, and the longing to be seen. Her own healing journey began in childhood and led her to pursue therapy as a way to not only understand herself, but to help others reclaim their voice. With a Master of Social Work from the University of Washington Tacoma and over two decades of lived and professional experience in the Federal Way community, she brings both clinical training and deep personal insight into this work. Her approach is grounded in authenticity, cultural humility, and a passion for walking alongside people through their most tender and transformative seasons.
She works with adults, adolescents, and families navigating anxiety, trauma, grief, identity, and life transitions. Melissa is especially passionate about supporting women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, educators, and people carrying the weight of complex relational dynamics or generational trauma. Her practice often draws those who are seeking to break cycles, processing emotional pain, or finding their way back to a sense of worth. She has specialized training in trauma-informed care, mindfulness, and somatic approaches, and integrates these with attachment-focused, person-centered therapy to meet each client where they are.
Her sessions are collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in safety. Melissa works from a strengths-based and holistic lens, helping clients uncover patterns, reconnect with their inner wisdom, and make empowered choices. Clients often come to her feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unseen.
Her goal is for clients to leave feeling more grounded, validated, and capable of moving forward. She believes healing happens in relationships, and she honors the courage it takes to show up fully. Whether processing past wounds or exploring future goals, she creates a space where all parts of you are welcome.
Melissa Pederson is an associate independent clinical social worker in Washington State (NPI number: 1194609511) supervised by Trisha Leonard, LICSW (LW61014335; NPI number: 1174841571).
