MELISSA HUDSON, PHD, LICENSED MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPIST SUPERVISOR
Thank You for Being Here
You’re probably not here to read my resume, you want to know if I can help. If you’re facing something hard and wondering whether this is the right fit, here’s what matters: I specialize in working with couples and individuals who are ready for real change. If that sounds like you, keep reading.
Why I’m Passionate About This Work
Therapy works when you commit to it. I’ve seen it in my own life and in the lives of the couples and individuals I work with. This isn’t just about fixing today’s problem, it’s about creating long-lasting change that can transform not only your relationship, but your family and future generations. That’s why I do this work.
I work best with people who are tired of being stuck and ready to do the work. I won’t sugarcoat it: no therapist can change you. Only you can do that. My job is to guide, support, and challenge you so the effort you put in leads to the change you’re looking for.
How I Work
I’m not the kind of therapist who just listens and nods. I engage, ask the hard questions, and help you tackle what feels impossible to talk about: whether it’s sex, money, trust, shame, or years of disconnection. This is a judgment-free space to get real. I’ll validate your experience, but I’ll also challenge you when it matters because real progress requires both. If you’re looking for someone to just agree with you, I’m not that therapist. But if you want someone who will walk through the hard stuff with you and help you grow, we’ll work well together.
What You Can Expect From Me
After 15 years specializing in couples therapy, I know what it takes to help partners move from disconnection to real change, and I’ll always tell you honestly if I’m the right fit for your needs.
Why I Do This Work
I didn’t grow up with examples of secure, emotionally connected relationships or healthy regulation, I had to learn those skills through my own work. That personal journey is what fuels my commitment to helping others create the strong, safe relationships they deserve. When I say I understand the effort this takes, I mean it, I’ve lived it.
Focusing on Relationships: My Area of Expertise
Let’s be honest: couples therapy isn’t for every therapist. It’s challenging, high-stakes work, and I choose it because I believe deeply in the power of healthy relationships. I also know that one of the best ways to help children is to help their parents. I work best with couples who are motivated and ready to break patterns that no longer serve them. If you’re stuck and unwilling to grow, this probably isn’t the right space for you. But if you’re ready to show up and do the work, I’ll show up with you.
Training and Experience
I earned my PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy and completed my clinical training at the University of Texas Southwestern Department of Psychiatry, where I worked with individuals, couples, and families through some of life’s toughest challenges. My experience also includes serving as a family medical therapist at the ALS Clinic at UT Southwestern, where I saw firsthand how illness and stress impact relationships. Today, I use evidence-based approaches like Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman principles to help couples move beyond conflict and create lasting connection.
A Little About Me
I grew up in Shreveport, Louisiana, moved to Nashville for college, and later made Texas home. Before becoming a therapist, I wore many hats: Army wife, high school teacher, corporate employee, and small business owner. These experiences shaped my perspective and give me a wide lens to draw from in my work. Outside the office, I enjoy time with my college-aged son (Hook 'Em Horns), cooking, reading, traveling, and relaxing with my dogs.
If You’re Ready
If you want to stop just surviving and start creating a relationship that feels secure and alive again, I’d be honored to help you get there.
EDUCATION, LICENSING & SPECIAL TRAINING
- Ph.D. - Marriage and Family Therapy, Texas Woman's University
- MS - Marriage and Family Therapy, Texas Woman's University
- MS - Secondary Curriculum and Instruction, Kansas State University
- BS - Secondary English Education, Kansas State University
- BS - English/Comparative Literature, Vanderbilt University
- Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy Externship
- Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy Advanced Training 1-4
- Nurturing Parenting Facilitator Training
- PREPARE/ENRICH Premarital & Couples Certified Facilitator
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy Training, Levels 1 & 2
- Digital Ethics, Security & Privacy in Psychotherapy Practice Management
- How Trauma Impacts Couple Relationships Training
- Advanced Infidelity Counseling Training
- AASECT certified sex therapist in training
- Texas Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor #202050
Conveniently located in Frisco, near the Stonebriar Country Club and Westin to serve Plano, Frisco, Allen, and the surrounding areas.
I specialize in working with couples in all stages as well as adults contending with anxiety and depression. You don't have to live this way. There is hope. Reach out and let's get started!