Melissa Bachelder, LCSW, PMH-C
(she/her)

ABOUT ME

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a certification in Perinatal Mental Health. I provide psychotherapy services addressing women’s mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, low self-worth, body image concerns, codependency, chronic pain, and more. While I have over a decade of experience helping many clients with a variety of issues, my passion is working with women as they navigate major life transitions and enter into the journey of motherhood.  My certification in Perinatal Mental Health allows me to both pursue my passion for women’s health and also be a leading expert in the field.

I am very committed to my work as a therapist. I have a warm and empathetic demeanor and provide a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment in which to process difficult emotions and help people to heal. I utilize a variety of different evidence-based techniques depending on the client and what is needed. I use client-centered and strength-based approaches to convey empathy and meet the client where they are. I strive to empathize, but also to push my clients to grow and heal when appropriate. My goal as a therapist is to meet you right where you are and provide you with a space to blossom, as well as empower you to make changes and understand your worth. I would love to come alongside you during your journey.

THERAPEUTIC FOCUS: PERINATAL MOOD & ANXIETY DISORDERS & BIRTH TRAUMA

I specialize in working with perinatal depression and anxiety disorders, helping women adjust throughout their transition into motherhood. I understand and empathize with how difficult this transition can be. My professional and real-life experience allows me to sit in this space with my clients while also aiding them to make changes and meet goals.

Additionally, I have a special interest in working with those who have experienced birth trauma. Unfortunately, birth trauma is a common event for a birthing person as often the experience of labor and delivery can leave a person feeling scared, alone, or in danger. 1 in every 3 women reports a traumatic delivery experience. As a woman who has experienced her own birth trauma, I can offer a unique perspective rooted in empathy to those struggling and hope that you will also one day heal.

I am passionate about working with women through a variety of life stressors and concerns. Periods of stress, uncertainty, and change can be some of the most difficult times of our lives. I work hard to make sure that the client feels safe, respected, and heard in therapy.

My approach is trauma-informed, and I focus on educating my clients about trauma’s impact on the brain. I have a strong interest in addressing somatic symptoms and trauma responses, and I emphasize the importance of feeling safe in your body. By combining cognitive and somatic approaches, I help people process trauma and develop strategies to cope with somatic symptoms.

I understand that asking for help is not easy; thank you for taking these first steps with me.

 I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to see how I can help you.  

Still feeling unsure? This complimentary screening tool is the quickest and easiest way to determine whether you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition.

Focuses:

  • Perinatal Anxiety & Depression

  • Pregnancy Loss

  • Grief/ Loss

  • Chronic Illness

  • High-Risk Pregnancies

  • Perfectionism in Motherhood

  • Transitioning to Motherhood

  • Life Transitions/ Stressors

  • Birth Trauma

States: Illinois