Marissa Melhuse, LCSW, San Juan Capistrano, CA

About Marissa Melhuse

Clientele seen

Children (<13)

Adults (25-64)

Couples

Teenagers (13-17)

Seniors (65+)

Groups

Young adults (18-24)

Individuals

Families

Treatment approaches

Attachment-based

Compassion Focused

Coaching

Dialectical (DBT)

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

EMDR

Identity

Gender

Female

Languages spoken

English

Getting to know Marissa Melhuse

Professional Statement I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with an MSW from USC and approximately four years of clinical experience across all levels of substance use disorder treatment, including detox, partial hospitalization (PHP), and intensive outpatient (IOP) care. My background includes extensive work with co-occurring disorders, trauma, crisis intervention, and serious mental illness. Prior to social work, I spent thirteen years as a credentialed high school educator — experience that continues to shape my clinical approach, bringing patience, structure, and an ability to meet clients where they are. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and use it regularly in my clinical work, currently completing consultation hours toward EMDRIA certification. I find EMDR especially effective for processing traumatic material that hasn't fully resolved through talk therapy alone, and I integrate it alongside cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic approaches tailored to each client's history and goals. While I have significant experience with high-acuity presentations, I particularly enjoy working with adults navigating everyday challenges: chronic stress, grief, major life transitions, and burnout. Many of my clients are high-functioning professionals who are quietly struggling — feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward. My clinical style is warm, direct, and grounded. I believe in transparency about treatment rationale and in building goals collaboratively rather than handing them down. The therapeutic relationship comes first — before technique, I want clients to feel safe, respected, and unjudged. If you're processing trauma, navigating a mental health concern, or feeling overwhelmed by life's pace, I'd welcome the opportunity to work with you toward meaningful, sustainable change.

What should a new client know about working with you?

I take a collaborative, client-centered approach to therapy. In our first few sessions, I focus on building a clear picture of your history, current concerns, and goals, so that treatment planning feels grounded in what actually matters to you — not a generic template. I tend to be direct and transparent. If I recommend a particular intervention or approach, I'll explain my reasoning so you understand the "why" behind the work, not just the "what." I also welcome feedback throughout treatment; if something isn't landing or doesn't feel useful, I want to know, so we can adjust. Sessions with me can be a mix of talk therapy, skills-building, and, when appropriate, EMDR for trauma processing. I move at the client's pace — some people are ready to dive into difficult material early on, while others need more time to build safety and trust first. There's no wrong timeline. You can expect a space that's warm but not overly soft — I'll validate what you're going through, and I'll also gently challenge patterns or thinking that may be keeping you stuck. My goal isn't just symptom relief, but sustainable change you can carry forward independently. Outside of session, I may occasionally suggest brief exercises or reflections to reinforce our work, though these are always optional and tailored to what's realistic for your life.

In-network insurances

Popular visit reasons

Agoraphobia

Hoarding Disorder

New Patient Visit

Pain Management Consultation

Psychosexual Evaluation

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit

Sleep Problems

Agoraphobia

Hoarding Disorder

New Patient Visit

Pain Management Consultation

Office location

Marissa Melhuse, LCSW also offers online video visits for patients

Infinite Mindset Therapy

27124 Paseo Espada, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

Get directions

Education and background

Practice names

Infinite Mindset Therapy

Education and training

University of Southern California, Master's in Clinical Social Work

NPI number

1245096379

Patient reviews

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Frequently asked questions

How soon can I make an appointment with Marissa Melhuse?

Generally, Marissa Melhuse has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Marissa Melhuse's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.

Is Marissa Melhuse accepting new patients?

Marissa Melhuse generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Marissa Melhuse's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.

Does Marissa Melhuse accept my insurance?

Choose your insurance plan to verify if Marissa Melhuse is in-network.

Can I make an appointment with Marissa Melhuse online?

Yes, you can make an appointment online with Marissa Melhuse using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.

What practice does Marissa Melhuse work with?

Marissa Melhuse works with Infinite Mindset Therapy.

Where is Marissa Melhuse's office located?

Marissa Melhuse has 2 office locations, including in San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente, view full addresses on Marissa Melhuse's profile.

What are common reasons for patients to see Marissa Melhuse?

Marissa Melhuse frequently sees patients for New Patient Visit, Pain Management Consultation, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Sleep Problems. You can see other visit reasons for Marissa Melhuse on their profile.