Meet Melissa Neill, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
I’m a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a lifelong passion for understanding people and helping them heal — not just physically, but emotionally and mentally as well. My career began in nursing, where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Nursing Science from the University of Stellenbosch and later completed my Master of Science in Nursing at Walden University. Over the years, I’ve worked in a wide range of settings — from community health in South Africa to detox programs, postpartum home visits, school-based mental health, and elder care — experiences that have deeply shaped the clinician I am today.
Early in my nursing career, I found myself drawn to the human stories behind every illness. In community clinics in South Africa, I cared for families facing immense hardship — poverty, trauma, and barriers to care — and learned that true healing begins when people feel seen, supported, and empowered. Later, while working with mothers and infants, I saw firsthand the emotional challenges of postpartum adjustment and depression. And during my time in school settings, I witnessed how anxiety, ADHD, and untreated emotional pain could quietly derail a child’s confidence and potential. These experiences reinforced my belief that mental health care must be compassionate, accessible, and holistic.
Guided by Empathy, Informed by Experience
My journey into psychiatry became deeply personal when my son was diagnosed with ADHD at a young age. Supporting him through his struggles — and witnessing the difference that skilled, caring providers made in his life — gave me a profound appreciation for the power of empathy, collaboration, and evidence-informed care. As both a clinician and a mother, I understand how isolating it can feel when a loved one is struggling, and how vital it is to have a provider who listens, truly understands, and walks alongside you.
Today, in my private practice, I integrate emotionally focused psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, and medication management to treat the whole person — not just their symptoms. My approach is gentle, collaborative, and deeply human. I believe that healing doesn’t happen on a timeline and that each layer of growth deserves space and compassion. My patients often tell me they feel heard, understood, and genuinely cared for. I see our work together as a partnership — helping you uncover your inner strength and find meaning, even in life’s most difficult moments.
Outside of my clinical work, I find peace and balance through my love of horses. I ride and care for them nearly every day, and I often reflect on how the connection between human and animal mirrors the therapeutic relationship — built on trust, presence, and pure intention. I also love spending time with my two children and extended family, traveling, and exploring different cultures — experiences that continually expand my understanding of the many ways people heal and thrive.
When we work together, my hope is that you’ll not only find relief from your symptoms but also rediscover your resilience, purpose, and sense of possibility.
Credentials:
Master of Science in Nursing, Walden University
Bachelor of Nursing Science, University of Stellenbosch
Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Extensive experience in community health, detox/PHP, postpartum and infant care, school-based mental health, and geriatric psychiatry
Volunteer experience with the Red Cross Society (South Africa),
Make-A-Wish Foundation (USA), and Assisted Living/Nursing Home programs