Melanie McKinney, LMSW

Therapist | Trauma-Informed Care Specialist

My name is Melanie McKinney. I’m a Licensed Master Social Worker and U.S. Air Force veteran with a deep passion for supporting individuals and families as they navigate trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, and emotional stress.


Before becoming a therapist, I served for 20 years in the U.S. Air Force, where I had the honor of working with people from many different backgrounds and life experiences. That time shaped how I understand resilience, adaptability, connection, and the real challenges military members, veterans, and families often carry.



My transition into social work came from a desire to create safe, empowering spaces where people can feel supported while working through difficult seasons. I believe healing happens when clients feel truly seen, respected, and equipped with tools that help them move forward with more clarity and confidence.

SCHEDULE WITH MELANIE

Melanie's Therapy Style

My therapy style is warm, practical, and collaborative. I focus on creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, supported, and understood.


I tailor each session to the client’s needs instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach. Some clients need space to process pain, some need help making sense of emotions, and some need practical tools they can use in everyday life. My goal is to meet clients where they are while helping them build toward meaningful growth.


I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems-informed work, and emotion regulation strategies.


The Bigger Vision



To me, therapy is about helping clients build on the strengths they already have. Even when life feels overwhelming, I believe people have the capacity to grow, adapt, and move toward a more balanced life.


In our work together, we may focus on building coping skills, improving communication, understanding emotional patterns, strengthening relationships, and finding practical ways to navigate challenges with more confidence.


My hope is that clients leave sessions feeling supported, clearer about their next steps, and more connected to their own strength and resilience. For more information or to schedule a session, reach put to Melanie at melanie@liveconsciouslypllc.com.com or (254)-320-5330.

Experience & Education

TRAUMA PROFESSIONAL

Who I Support

  • I work with children, adolescents, adults, families, military families, and veterans.



  • I support clients navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, family stress, emotional regulation, and child behavioral concerns.


Because of my military background, I have a special understanding of the unique stressors that can come with service, transition, family separation, identity shifts, and the adjustment between military and civilian life. I also enjoy working with families and young people who need support building communication, coping skills, and emotional balance.

Education & Training

Licensed Master Social Worker, (LMSW)


  • Master’s Degree in Social Work — University of Southern California, 2016


  • Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services Counseling



Outside of my work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, traveling, and exploring art and culture. These activities help me maintain balance and serve as a reminder of the importance of self-care, a value I encourage in all my clients.