Melissa Rinker

Meet Melissa.

Trauma-Informed Therapy for Women, Teens, and Children in Fredericksburg and Across Virginia

Hi, I’m Melissa Rinker, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping children, teens, and adults navigate life’s challenges with compassion, healing, and hope. I believe that no matter what someone has walked through, healing is possible — and that therapy can be a space where strength and peace are rebuilt, one step at a time.

Who I help

I work with:

• Children and teens managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and emotional regulation challenges.

• Adults navigating grief, trauma recovery, and relationship stress.

• Families working to strengthen communication, connection, and support at home.

In every session, I aim to create a warm, safe, and supportive environment where my clients feel seen, understood, and encouraged toward growth.

Background & Approach

I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and hold a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Eastern Kentucky University. Before becoming a therapist, I spent 18 years as a teacher, which taught me how to connect with children and families from all walks of life and to recognize the courage it takes to grow through difficult seasons.

Before becoming a therapist, I spent 18 years as a teacher, working with children and families from a wide range of backgrounds. That time taught me the value of patience, connection, and creativity — lessons I carry into every therapy session today.

Over the years, I’ve provided therapy in schools, community mental health programs, and hospital settings, allowing me to understand emotional and behavioral needs across developmental stages. My experience includes supporting clients facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), ASD-related challenges, and bipolar disorder.

My approach is trauma-informed, strength-based, and relational, grounded in both structure and compassion. I integrate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and play therapy techniques to help clients learn practical tools for emotional regulation and resilience.

I’ve also completed extensive training in grief and loss, trauma integration, and healing through hope, allowing me to support clients as they process pain and rediscover meaning after difficult experiences. My work focuses on helping individuals and families find balance — emotionally, mentally, and spiritually — so they can move forward with confidence and connection.

Connect with me

I provide in-person counseling in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and telehealth sessions for clients across Virginia through Thrive Counseling for Healing and Connection. Whether you’re seeking support through grief, managing trauma, or learning new coping skills, I’m here to walk alongside you toward healing and hope.