Melissa Upton

Melissa Upton is a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in Mississippi and holds national certification from the National Board for Certified Counselors. She earned both a Master’s degree and a Specialist’s degree in School Counseling from Mississippi State University and has developed her practice over many years in the public school system.

With 14 years of experience specifically in school counseling and 25 years working within Mississippi public schools, Melissa has extensive experience supporting adolescents and their families. Her background includes work with anger management, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, ADHD, coping skills, academic planning and career exploration.

Melissa applies a client-centered approach combined with cognitive behavioral techniques to help clients identify practical ways to manage symptoms and improve daily functioning. For academic and career guidance she uses the RIASEC framework based on John Holland’s career model to help clients explore interests and match them with realistic pathways.

She values treating each person with respect and compassion and aims to create a space where individuals can be themselves and address the challenges that arise in everyday life. Seeking counseling is framed as a form of self-help that can support a more balanced, fulfilling life, and Melissa welcomes the opportunity to support people of different ages as they begin that process.