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Melanie Sivley, LCSW

Melanie Sivley

(she/her)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
CEO
Not accepting clients at this time

If you’re feeling stuck in the past, overwhelmed by emotions, or weighed down by painful experiences, you’re not alone. Trauma has a way of making you feel trapped—whether it stems from childhood wounds, military service, abusive relationships, or other deeply distressing events. It can show up as anxiety, depression, difficulty trusting others, or even a sense of being disconnected from yourself. But healing is possible, and you don’t have to go through it alone.

As a licensed clinical social worker specializing in complex trauma and PTSD, I help people like you break free from the patterns that trauma creates. I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), along with mindfulness, somatic work, and cognitive approaches, to help you reprocess painful memories, regain control over your emotions, and rebuild a sense of safety within yourself. My approach is warm, direct, and nonjudgmental—because I know how hard it is to face the things you’ve been carrying for so long.

If you’ve ever felt like no one understands what you’ve been through, I want you to know that I do. Before becoming a therapist, I served in the U.S. Army, an experience that deepened my understanding of resilience, trauma, and the unique challenges faced by veterans and first responders. I’m also in recovery myself, so I know firsthand what it means to do the hard work of healing and rebuilding. You don’t have to do it alone—I’m here to walk this path with you.

Outside of my work, I’m a single parent to an amazing daughter who reminds me every day why healing matters. I understand what it’s like to juggle responsibilities while trying to take care of yourself, and I’m committed to helping you find balance, strength, and a way forward.

If you’re ready to start your healing journey, I’m here to support you. You deserve peace, freedom, and a future that isn’t controlled by your past. Let’s take that first step together.

Bodhi Counseling, EMDR Therapy
“Each of you is perfect the way you are ... and you can use a little improvement.”
— Shunryu Suzuki
Bodhi Counseling, Mindfulness Therapy

​I received my Masters of Social Work from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  I worked in a variety of community mental health settings before settling into private practice, including working in inpatient treatment at the Pavilion, with youth in crisis, and with all ages in community mental health agencies. Working with such diverse populations allowed me to really understand what areas of counseling I excel in.​

 

I am also an active student of Zen Buddhism. Daily mediation time along with sustained periods of mediation at our local Zen Center has a deep impact on my work with clients, helping me to be fully present while in session. Buddhism is the foundation for many coping skills--from mindfulness to being present in the body to deep breathing exercises. Zazen (Zen meditation) is the ultimate grounding exercise.

Bodhi Counseling,  ADHD Assessments
Bodhi Counseling,  Anxiety Counseling
Bodhi Counseling, Depression Therapy

Accepted Insurances:  HAMP, BCBS, Aetna, U of I Student Insurance, Private Pay

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