Melanie Froemke

She/Her

LCSW, RPT-S, e-RYT200

Founder and Team Developer, River Grove Therapy

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and experienced Yoga Teacher. I specialize in working with issues of complex trauma, neurodiversity, anxiety, grief & loss, and adjustment.

I am a Certified EMDR clinician and EMDRIA-approved Consultant in Training. I have extensive training and experience in complex trauma and dissociation, trauma-sensitive yoga, CBT, mindfulness & mind/body, expressive arts, sand therapy, and play therapy.

It is my honor and privilege to do this work. I am truly humbled to witness the unique strengths of each of my clients in our work together. I look forward to meeting you and being part of your journey toward growth and healing.

About Melanie

Thanks for checking out River Grove Therapy. If you're here, perhaps you're considering starting therapy for yourself or your child.

From my experience, therapy truly is a gift- the insights we gain about ourselves can be life-changing. It is my honor and privilege to do this work. I am truly humbled to witness the unique strengths of each of my clients in our work together. I encourage you to reach out- I look forward to meeting you and being part of your journey toward growth and healing.

My background is diverse, which I believe is a strength in this work, allowing a breadth of experience in the therapeutic journey.
I received my undergraduate degree from the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York, and served in the U.S. Army for eight years. Following my military service, I pursued yoga training, and specifically, trauma-sensitive yoga training - where I found my passion- serving others on a direct level through clinical work. I pursued my Master’s of Science in Social Administration (MSSA/MSW) from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. I have experience working in community resource agencies, college counseling centers, Inova Life with Cancer program, and inpatient treatment centers. I am certified in EMDR, trained in Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment, a Registered Play Therapist, have specialized training in trauma-sensitive yoga and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).

As a yoga, mindfulness, and meditation instructor for many years, I understand the distinct mind-body connection and often offer expressive therapies to meet each client.

Through EMDR, expressive arts, mindful movement, meditation, mindfulness, and evidence-based practices, I aim to establish a distinct therapeutic connection and provide the space for healing and growth.

As a neurodivergent individual and therapist, I am able to come to a lens of strength and understanding for each individual. I provide treatment to children, adolescents, and adults managing issues of anxiety, adjustment, trauma, loss, ADHD & autism. I provide my clients the space, skills and strategies for navigating life's challenges with intention, flexibility and acceptance so that they can get back to living more meaningful lives. maintain a trauma-informed, culturally-aware, & neurodiversity-affirming framework to create individualized treatment plans.

Over my time as a therapist in Alexandria, I have seen the continued need for more well-trained therapists who are passionate about working with kids - with a neurodiversity-affirming framework - across the lifespan. I developed River Grove Therapy truly as a labor of love- to support more therapists in their growth and abilities, and also to provide a place where therapists are supported and can thrive. I believe in and trust our team of therapists. They are incredible human beings with the life purpose of helping others - I am proud to be connected with each of them.

I can truly say that every day at River Grove therapy and in my work with clients brings me joy. I am filled with hope, joy, and encouragement for the meaningful connections and growth for both therapists and clients in this space - together.

Consultation & Supervision