Melissa Backus, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Melissa Backus

(She/Her/Hers)

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

Accepting clients
Updated yesterday
20 years in practice

I draw from modalities such as CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based practices, but at the heart of my work is genuine connection and collaboration.

Ever feel like your mind just won't slow down? Like you're caught in a loop of spiraling thoughts, low confidence, or feeling stuck in life's transitions? Maybe perfectionism or self-doubt makes it tough to celebrate your wins, or you struggle to express what you really need. If any of this sounds familiar, you're not alone — and you definitely don't have to go through it alone. Whether it's your first time trying therapy or you're jumping back in, my goal is to make the process approachable and meaningful. I draw from modalities such as CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based practices, but at the heart of my work is genuine connection and collaboration. I specialize in helping people navigate anxiety, life transitions and challenges with self-esteem. My approach is laid-back and conversational, creating a space where you can feel validated and understood. I offer a free initial consultation to discuss your goals and make sure we are a good match. If you're ready to start this journey, reach out — I'd love to hear from you.

Remote
Speaks English
Emergency number not available
WhiteCisgender WomanHeterosexualLGBTQIA+ ally

Practice hours (EDT)

Sun
9:00 am 6:00 pm
Mon
10:00 am 7:00 pm
Tue
10:00 am 7:00 pm
Wed
10:00 am 7:00 pm
Thu
8:00 am 7:00 pm
Fri
8:00 am 6:30 pm
Sat
9:00 am 6:00 pm

Areas of focus

Areas of expertise

  • Anxiety
  • Burnout
  • Career
  • College and School Placement
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Grief and Loss
  • Life Transitions
  • Perfectionism
  • Performance Anxiety
  • Relationship(s) with Friends/Roommates
  • Relationship(s) with Parents/Children/Family
  • Relationship(s) with Partner/Husband/Wife
  • Self-Esteem
  • Social Anxiety
  • Work/Life Balance

Age groups

  • Children (under 10)
  • Preteens (10-12)
  • Teens (13-17)
  • Young adults (18-30)
  • Adults (31-64)
  • Seniors (65 or older)

Treatment specialties

Therapeutic modalities

  • Assessment/Evaluation
  • Family Therapy
  • Individual Therapy

Treatments

  • Person-Centered Therapy
  • Positive Psychology
  • Yoga Therapy
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Relational Psychotherapy
  • Solution-Focused Therapy
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Mindfulness Training
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Remote options

  • Video

Payment options

$80 — $150per session

Insurance

In-network coverage provided for the following insurance companies

  • Aetna – Florida
  • Cigna – Florida
  • Florida Blue – Florida
  • Optimum Health Plan – Florida
  • Optum – Florida
  • Oscar – Florida
  • Oxford Health Plan – Florida
  • United Health Care – Florida
  • United Medical Resource – Florida
  • Documentation provided for patient filling
  • In-network insurance
  • Out-of-network insurance
  • Out-of-pocket
  • Sliding scale
  • I offer a free consultation

Payment methods

  • Credit Card
  • Debit Card
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Health Savings Account

Credentials

Licenses

  • LCSW

    17804, Florida

Certificates

  • Certification in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    Florida Atlantic University

Education

  • Columbia University

    MSW (Master of Social Work), 2003

  • Boston University

    BA (Bachelor of Arts), 2000

Other