About Our Story
Learn how clinical expertise and a deep respect for faith and human dignity come together to support healing.
Evidence-Based Healing With Faith-Based Hope
At Stuart EMDR, we believe that true healing requires more than just managing symptoms—it requires a profound restoration of the mind, heart, and soul. Located in the heart of the Martin County, Florida, our practice serves as a sanctuary for those seeking to move beyond the weight of the past and into a future of hope and purpose.
Restoring the Whole Person
Whether you join us in person in beautiful Martin County or connect with us through our secure virtual platform, you are entering a space where clinical excellence meets compassionate, faith-informed care.
Meet Melinda Johnson, LCSW, QS
Melinda Johnson is a seasoned practitioner-scholar dedicated to the art and science of transformation. With a career rooted in service—including her background as a military veteran and former law enforcement officer—she brings a grounded, real-world perspective to the therapeutic process.
Melinda specializes in helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of trauma, anxiety, depression, and spiritual wounding. Her approach is characterized by a “sturdy compassion,” offering clients both the clinical tools they need to heal and the professional respect they deserve.
Expert Clinician: A certified Transformational EMDR™ therapist with advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) from the renowned Beck Institute.
Leader in the Field: As an EMDRIA Approved Consultant™ and educator, Melinda mentors the next generation of therapists, helping them achieve mastery in trauma-informed care.
Melinda offers a rare depth of understanding regarding the intersection of modern psychology and the timeless truths of the Apostolic Church.
Published Author: Co-author of Transformational EMDR, the Manual: Shapiro’s Aspiration for EMDR Beyond the Disease Model, Melinda is a recognized voice in evolving the practice of EMDR toward deeper, more lasting results.
Meet Jessica Lepine-Elfus
Jessica Lepine-Elfus is a Mental Health Counseling Intern providing compassionate, client-centered support under the supervision of Melinda Johnson, LCSW-QS. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate emotional challenges, personal growth, and life transitions with care, understanding, and encouragement.
Her approach combines evidence-based support with a strong desire to help people move forward with greater confidence, healing, and purpose.
EMDR Trained: Jessica is EMDR trained and incorporates trauma-informed techniques designed to help clients process difficult experiences and support emotional healing.
Certified Maxwell Coach: As a certified Maxwell Coach, Jessica enjoys helping individuals discover meaningful direction, identify strengths, and pursue careers and life paths that align with their goals and purpose.
Where Faith and Evidence Meet
For many, the hardest part of seeking therapy is the fear that their faith will be misunderstood or sidelined. At Stuart EMDR, your faith is not an obstacle-it is a vital resource for your recovery.
Melinda works with clients of all faith backgrounds. If you self-identify as Christian, she will help you integrate your faith with your healing work. Whether you are Christian or of another faith tradition, you will find a therapist who respects the sanctity of your spiritual life and understands the nuances of spiritual trauma.
Clinical Supervision & Consultation
Beyond individual healing, Melinda is committed to the health of the profession. She serves as a Qualified Supervisor (QS) for Registered Clinical Social Work Interns in Florida and provides expert consultation for EMDR-trained clinicians working toward their EMDRIA Certification.
Melinda is dedicated to seeing you thrive in your own professional journey toward licensure and EMDR certification.
Experience the “EMDR Intensive"
Many of our clients choose to travel to our beautiful coastal location to participate in our EMDR Intensives. These extended sessions allow for rapid progress in a focused, restorative environment. If you are traveling from out of town, we are happy to assist you in finding local accommodations to make your healing retreat as seamless as possible.
Ready to Begin?
Our scheduling is handled entirely online for your convenience. Visit our portal to view current availability and take the first step toward the life you were meant to live.