Melissa Yarborough, PsyD

Are you an adult or older teen struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, or relationship concerns? You don't have to do it alone, and I can help. My primary specialty areas include survivors of interpersonal violence and sexual assault, other trauma survivors, and members of the LGBTQIA community. I also greatly enjoy working with those who struggle with family-related concerns and life transitions including grief and loss, pregnancy, becoming a parent, considering marriage or divorce, and changing careers.

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As a therapist, I know how hard it can be to reach out for help and recognize the importance of creating safety and trust with my clients. You will find me to be welcoming, warm, and nonjudgmental. I apply a culturally sensitive and trauma informed perspective to my work and strive to make you feel understood and cared for while addressing your concerns.

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My Approach to Therapy

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I am a Licensed Psychologist in North Carolina specializing in therapy for older teens and adults. My approach to therapy is collaborative with an integrative framework. It is important to me that I listen to your concerns and adapt my approach to best meet your needs. I frequently incorporate interpersonal psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and aspects of positive psychology in my work.

 

I earned my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in 2012. Throughout my career, I have worked in a variety of settings and truly enjoy getting to know my clients and helping them navigate through the things that are getting in the way of living a meaningful and fulfilling life.

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EMDR Therapy and Trauma-Informed Therapy

 

I am passionate about working with survivors of interpersonal violence and sexual assault as well as other trauma survivors. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, which is a counseling modality that facilitates healing from traumatic memories and other adverse life experiences.

 

It can be difficult to find counselors who are trained in trauma-informed therapy and EMDR therapy, so please reach out. I also accept most BCBS insurance plans. I offer primarily telehealth therapy, but I also have some in-person availability.

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More About Me

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I am originally from Florida, but I’ve lived in North Carolina for over 10 years now. I completed my doctoral psychology internship at Appalachian State University’s Counseling and Psychological Services Center and worked there as a staff psychologist until 2014 when I made the move to Raleigh to work at NC State’s Counseling Center. I was the Interpersonal Violence Coordinator there seeing a high volume of clients who have experienced sexual assault, intimate partner violence, stalking or harassment. Then in 2019, I became the Assistant Director for Clinical Services at NC State’s Counseling Center and remained in that position until 2022 when I joined Elon University’s Counseling Services. After working at Elon, I decided to join the wonderful staff at Etheridge Psychology in Cary, NC.

 

I am a wife and mother to three wonderful kids and one super-playful dog. I love the beach, gardening, crafting, watching Netflix and sitting outside or going for walks when the weather is nice.