Melissa McManis, LCSW
(she/her)
Preferred Name: Melissa
About Me
I'm a psychotherapist, EMDR therapist, and lifelong learner who feels incredibly grateful to do work that I truly love. Over the past 20+ years, my professional journey has taken me from working with high-risk youth, to specializing in sexuality and relationships, and now to helping people heal from trauma through EMDR. After four years of training, consultation, and growth, I am EMDR Certified—something I'm deeply proud of. I'm also neurodivergent, and that lived experience has given me an even greater passion for helping other neurodivergent adults understand themselves, embrace their unique strengths, and navigate life in ways that honor who they are. One of my dreams is to create supportive groups where neurodivergent adults can learn, connect, and feel truly understood. I'm endlessly curious and believe learning never stops. Every person I meet teaches me something, and it's a privilege to walk alongside others as they heal, grow, and create lives that feel more authentic and meaningful.
Education & Experience
2005 MSW University of MN
2010 LCSW in State of California
2021 Trained in the Somatica Method of Sex and Relationship Coaching
2022 Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing from EMDR Center of Southern CA
2026 EMDRIA Certified Therapist™EMDRIA Certified Therapist™ EMDR Professional Training
Serves clients in
- California (CA)
Professional & Volunteer Affiliations
CAMFT
Specialty Area
- ADHD/Neurodiversity
- Abuse/Neglect
- Anxiety/Panic Attacks
- Autism Spectrum
- Family Issues
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Sexual Abuse
- Sexual Dysfunction
- Somatic Issues
- Stress Management
- Suicide Risk
- Survivor's Guilt
- Traumatic Incident
Population Served
- Adults
- LGBTQ+
Language
- English
Insurance
- Cigna
Lyra EAP