MELISSA HUDSON, PHD, LICENSED MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPIST SUPERVISOR
Thank you for taking the time to visit my website. I’m not here to bore you with my resume or hobbies—what really matters is whether I’m the right therapist for you. You’re probably here because you’re facing something tough, and you want to know if I can help. So I'll leave the list of credentials at the bottom and tell you a bit about why I do this work and who is the best fit to work with me.
Why I’m Passionate About This Work
I’m passionate about therapy because it works. When you’re committed, it can be life-changing. I’ve seen it in my own life and in my practice. Therapy isn’t just about fixing a problem today—it’s about creating long-lasting change that impacts not only you but your family and future generations. That’s the kind of change I’m here to help you make.
I work best with clients who are tired of being unhappy and are ready to take action in the therapeutic process. I won’t sugarcoat it: no therapist can change you. Only you can do that. My job is to facilitate the process, to guide and support you in the work you need to undertake.
How I Work
I’m not the kind of therapist who just listens and nods. I engage with you and work through the tough stuff. After over 14 years in private practice, I’ve worked through many complex and sensitive issues. There’s no topic off-limits: sex, money, shame, anxiety, regret, pornography, or whatever you bring to the table. This is the space to get real, and I’m here for that.
My approach is to create a safe, empathetic space where we can tackle hard conversations head-on. I’m patient and validating, but I’ll also challenge you and call you out when necessary. This relationship is designed to push you forward—sometimes that means we say hard things, but we work through them productively. If you’re looking for someone to just agree with you, I’m not that therapist. But if you’re ready to get to the heart of what’s going on and make meaningful changes, we’ll be a great fit.
Focusing on Relationships: My Area of Expertise
Let’s be honest—couples therapy isn’t for every therapist. It’s complex, challenging work, but I specialize in it because I believe 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 to explore their relationship patterns and make changes. If you’re stuck and unwilling to grow, this might not be the right space for you. Therapy requires all parties to learn, grow, and move forward. If you’re ready to put in the effort, we’ll work well together.
Do I Know My Stuff?
Yes, I do. I know how to help people through tough times and complex issues. If I feel your needs may be better served by another specialist, I'm happy to assist you in finding someone who is a better fit. Therapy is most effective when there’s a solid match on both sides. If you’re ready to dig in and do the work, I’m here to help.
A Little About Me
I grew up in Shreveport, Louisiana, and spent all of my childhood there before moving to Nashville for college. Many moves later, I landed in the Dallas area in 2005 and began pursuing my journey to be a psychotherapist in my mid-30s.
I have varied professional and life experience to draw upon. I’ve been a former Army wife, a high school teacher, a corporate employee, and a small business owner. But most importantly, I’ve navigated my own tough journey and come out stronger. I wasn’t born into privilege, financially or emotionally, but I’ve worked hard to create a fulfilling life for myself and my family. This work is deeply personal to me, and I take your challenges seriously.
Training and Experience
I completed my clinical training at the University of Texas Southwestern Department of Psychiatry, working with diverse individuals, couples, and families. I also interned at the ALS Clinic at UT Southwestern as a family medical therapist, giving me a wide range of experience to draw from.
When I’m not in the office, I enjoy spending time with my college-aged son (Hook ‘Em Horns!), my dogs, and traveling. I love to cook, read, and enjoy life.
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
- Hardship Waiver Evaluation Training
- 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!