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Melissa Fernald, LCSW

Calm, practical LCSW guiding change
  • Strength-based approach
  • Solution-focused care
  • Experienced with addiction

About Melissa Fernald

Melissa Fernald is an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) with 25 years of experience working in mental health and addiction services. She has supported individuals and families across hospitals, community programs, and private practice settings, and those experiences inform a practical approach to therapy that emphasizes real-world results.

Melissa believes therapy does not need to be a long, painful process. Instead, she offers a focused, empowering environment where people receive practical support for the challenges they are facing now. Her work is strength-based and solution-focused, helping clients build on what is already working while developing new skills to move forward.

Clients can expect a calm, nonjudgmental, and down-to-earth therapist who values honesty, humor, and authenticity in the room. Melissa is passionate about this work and committed to creating a space where people feel heard, understood, and supported. She enjoys helping people get unstuck, gain clarity, and create meaningful change so they leave each session feeling a little lighter, more capable, and more hopeful.

Areas of Expertise

Primary Focus

Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD

Also Specializes In

AddictionsRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesEating disordersParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue

Additional Focus Areas

AbandonmentBlended family issuesCaregiver issues and stressCo-morbidityCodependencyCommunication problemsControl issuesDivorce and separationDomestic violenceDrug and alcohol addictionFamily problemsFirst responder issuesGuilt and shameImpulsivityLife purposeMidlife crisisMood disordersObsessions, compulsions, and OCDPanic disorder and panic attacksPostpartum depressionPost-traumatic stressPregnancy and childbirthProcess addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Self-harmSexual assault and abuseSmoking / vaping cessationSocial anxiety and phobiaWomen's issuesWorkplace issuesYoung adult issues

Therapeutic Approach

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Attachment-Based Therapy Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) Existential Therapy Mindfulness Therapy Motivational Interviewing Narrative Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy Trauma-Focused Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

How much experience does Melissa Fernald have?

She has 25 years of experience in the field of mental health and addiction.

Is Melissa Fernald a licensed therapist?

Yes. She holds the LCSW credential, which stands for Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Her license details are ME LCSW LC18215 and NH LCSW 5092.

In which languages does Melissa Fernald provide therapy?

She provides therapy in English.

Where is Melissa Fernald located?

She is located in Maine.

How can I work with Melissa Fernald as my therapist?

You can work with Melissa Fernald through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Melissa Fernald work with international clients?

She does not currently work with international clients.

How much does therapy with Melissa Fernald cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and her availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, just click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire to help match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.

Could Remote Therapy Fit Your Needs?

Many people wonder whether remote therapy can make a meaningful difference. For a range of common concerns such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions, online therapy can be an accessible and effective option that offers many of the same benefits as in-person sessions.

One major advantage is flexibility. People can connect with a therapist in the way that feels most comfortable to them - through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or in-app messaging. That flexibility often makes it easier to fit therapy into a busy life and to maintain consistency over time.

Licensed professionals and therapists provide care remotely, and it is possible to change therapists if someone is seeking a different fit. For many, online therapy is a practical pathway to consistent support, skill building, and progress toward personal goals.

Ready to start therapy with Melissa Fernald?

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