IT’S So Nice to meet yoU

Dr. Melinda Perales

PsyD, LMFT, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT, RACS

~ I am the Sun and the Moon ~

Hello! I'm Melinda, and my pronouns are she/her/ella…

I bring both academic training and lived clinical experience to my work as a therapist. I earned my Doctor of Psychology, PsyD, from Meridian University, which deepened my understanding of human behavior and allows me to bring specialized, research-informed care into the therapy room. I practice psychotherapy under my license as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California and hold advanced certifications as a Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT), and Rainbow Advocate Clinical Specialist (RACS).

I am passionate about making quality, affordable mental healthcare accessible to all, with a focus on inclusive and affirming care for marginalized communities. In addition to my private practice, I also volunteer as a clinician at the Axis Mundi Center for Mental Health, a nonprofit organization.

My ethnic heritage and personality…

I am a mixed-Indigenous cisgender woman on a journey to reconnect with my Mesoamerican heritage. I am also a first-generation Mexican-American, influenced by my father, who immigrated to the United States from Torreón, Mexico, at the age of eight with my grandparents. They settled in the Mission District of San Francisco, CA. My great-grandmother, on my father's side, descends from the Huichol Indigenous tribe of Mexico. On my mother's side, my Mexican American roots originate from Hatch, New Mexico, tracing back four generations to around 1900, when New Mexico was still part of Mexico. My maternal great-grandmother was full-blooded Mescalero Apache.

My personality style is a ‘Type 7 - The Enthusiast’ on the Enneagram chart (Yessss!!!). I’m also aligned with the ENFP personality type in the Myers-Briggs framework. My astrological chart includes a Capricorn Sun, Cancer Moon, and Scorpio Rising. I hope these traits, along with the classic characteristics of being a 'Gen X' latchkey kid from the 1970s and 1980s, give you a playful glimpse of who I am before we meet!

Personal Journey…

Like many, my journey began without a clear understanding of self-awareness, held back by deeply ingrained beliefs that kept me stuck in pain. I empathize with the profound disconnection that can exist between the self and others when first embarking on the healing journey. However, as I progressed through the various stages of transformation, I discovered the power and significance of authentic connection—achieved only through unwavering honesty, vulnerability, and kindness. Since then, prioritizing my need for healthy connections with myself and others has guided my purpose in living as a whole adult and supporting clients in forming fearless, authentic relationships. I can confidently say that if you feel hopeless and are suffering, know that your pain will be relieved, and you will feel better; this process begins once acceptance and action are in sync. I am so happy you are making efforts right now, in this moment, to make a difference in your life!

My therapeutic style and theory…

Grounded in empathy and a secure space, my approach helps clients choose healthier thoughts and behaviors that lead to meaningful change. Once a foundation of safety and trust is established, vulnerability and authenticity naturally emerge, allowing for deeper therapeutic work.

For couples on this journey, my approach emphasizes the balance of unity and individuality as a way to strengthen their partnership. Each partner is encouraged to identify their needs, set personal boundaries that align with their highest self, and honor the sacred boundaries of their partner. Together, they learn new ways to care for and protect their most sacred and important agreement—their relationship.

Above all, what I want you to know about me is this…

I already think YOU MATTER, and it’s an honor to hear your story and witness you shine. Welcome Home!