Dr. Melynda Keatts (pronounced KATES) has worked in the mental health field since 2013. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and holds a license as a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor in Virginia. She has used trauma-informed care for all levels of outpatient and residential treatment for addiction and other mental health issues throughout her career. She believes that finding a way forward from any struggle is a spiritual journey for the person. This healing journey can bring new hope for peace in their lives, overcoming anything that may be in the past, moving from surviving to truly thriving in life. Dr. Keatts grew up in a Navy family moving all over the Eastern half the US in her early life. She has recently relocated from the Blue Ridge Mountains of Roanoke, Virginia to the Hampton Roads community. She has experience with military and first responder families from many different perspectives – as a daughter, sister, wife, mother, and some personal experience training as a first responder. She is passionate about serving those who serve and helping to overcome traumas. She recently finished her doctorate degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, focusing on organizations and the relationship with the workforce. Dr. Keatts has been married for over 20 years and has three children. She enjoys arts and crafts, movies with family, and participating in deep exploration of faith. She especially enjoys finding creative ways to use these activities as therapy tools. She also enjoys traveling and serving on mission teams.