Melanie Elks

Melanie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 30 years of experience providing individual therapy to teens, adults, and seniors via telehealth. She earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work from East Carolina University.

Melanie is certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ASD Certified, and she is a Mindfulness/Meditation–Trained Practitioner as well as a Clinically Certified Anxiety Treatment Professional. She specializes in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and trauma, and integrates a wide range of holistic approaches to support healing of the mind, body, and spirit. Melanie believes that a strong, nurturing therapeutic relationship is the foundation for meaningful healing, growth, and lasting change.

Autism Spectrum– (ASD) Related Focus
In her clinical work, Melanie frequently encounters adults on the Autism Spectrum who are undiagnosed and often present with anxiety, social anxiety, and/or relationship challenges. She supports these individuals through psychoeducation, skill development, and therapeutic strategies that honor neurodiversity while addressing emotional and relational concerns

Melanie has experience working with children as young as four; however, due to the limitations of telehealth with very young children, her current focus is best suited for children ages 10 and older. This includes youth experiencing social communication challenges, repetitive behaviors, sensory sensitivities, executive functioning difficulties, and those identified within Special Education services.

In addition to working directly with children and adolescents, Melanie provides education, skill-building, and supportive guidance to parents and caregivers of children on the autism spectrum, helping families better understand their child’s needs and strengthen supportive strategies at home.

Outside of her professional work, Melanie enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren, camping with her family and four dogs, reading, and cheering on her favorite teams—the UNC Tar Heels and the New York Giants.