Melinda Anello, PMHNP

As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)  I am passionate about caring for people. With over 17 years of experience in nursing, I have sat with people through all stages of life, and currently work with both teens and adults to help them find their best path forward. I am dedicated to providing a safe environment infused with kindness, empathy, and humor.

I currently work with those struggling with depression/mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, ADHD and OCD. I have an additional certification as a Perinatal Mental Health specialist, and unique experience to support those dealing with premenstrual or menopausal distress,  those planning for pregnancy or post-partum, as well as those struggling with pregnancy loss, abortion or birth trauma (whether first hand, or vicariously in your supportive work).

By working collaboratively and utilizing evidence-based practices as our guide, we can explore your unique experience of the world and carve out a path to healing and wellness.

 My Philosophy

I believe that we all have the innate ability to heal, and there are many paths to mental wellness. By exploring evidence-based practices, we can create a treatment plan that incorporates not only medication but also meaningful elements such as movement, nutrition, supportive therapy, and complementary and alternative medicines (CAM).

Get to Know Melinda:

What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of work? 

When the sun graces the sky, I lace up my hiking boots and hit the trails. In the summer, you’ll likely find me sitting in the warm sun next to the river, yurting, and kayaking. When winter arrives, I hibernate indoors, cocooning myself in warmth while reading, working on puzzles, or binge-watching a new series. Regardless of the season, I’m always excited to spend time with friends and enjoy live music.

What personal experiences or beliefs most influence your approach to psychiatric care and how you connect with clients? 

My work as a labor & delivery nurse has significantly influenced my approach to care. Through these experiences, I’ve learned to sit with others in their pain, offer words of encouragement (either softly or with exuberance), be a steady force of support, and listen to the innate, knowing needs of others.

What is your favorite method for managing your own mental health and well-being? 

I love solo ventures into the wilderness to reconnect with myself. I practice breathwork, yoga, and find solace in meditation. Additionally, I’m fortunate to have a wonderful circle of friends and a beautiful family that keeps me laughing, centered, and growing.

Modalities
  • Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Person-Centered
  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
Specialties

I am happy to treat most mental health concerns, but I have a special interest in working with individuals struggling with premenstrual disorders, peripartum mental health (mood and anxiety disorders during and after pregnancy), as well as birth trauma, pregnancy loss, or abortion. I also provide support to first-line birth providers suffering from secondary trauma.

Education & Training
  • Licenses: Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (OR & WA)
  • Certification: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC)
  • Education: Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner – Gonzaga University

Additional Training

  • Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C)

What Melinda’s Clients Say:

"Melinda meets me where I'm at and makes me feel completely comfortable to share."

— 2024 Annual Review

"I really appreciate how real Melinda is. I feel like she sees who I am as a person and I can show up as my full self and it doesn't feel clinical."

— 2024 Annual Review

"She really listens to what I have to say..... As a young woman, we usually don't get heard by doctors/therapists/etc., but it's nice to have someone that's believes me and doesn't think my symptoms are just "anxiety." It's very refreshing. The most helpful thing about working together would be how medications work and giving me education about symptoms. You really don't know what to expect on meds so having a heads up for certain side effects kept me grounded."

— 2024 Annual Review

"Melinda is so kind and warm, like a big, enveloping hug. Her face lights up when our sessions begin and it really establishes a foundation of trust and openness; I feel valued and accepted just as I am. As such, I have confidently confided in Melinda regarding so many aspects of my life, truths which have helped us work together to select the most appropriate treatment options and truths which have allowed me to heal. She has helped me in so many, many ways."

— 2024 Annual Review

"She has helped validate my feelings and emotions and has provided me with tools to better function through everyday life."

— 2024 Annual Review

"Melinda listens and partners with me to help me make the best medical decisions. I have had two different psychiatric providers tell me that they don't know how else to help me. "You're just an anxious person." I had accepted that I was at my best, even though my baseline anxiety was very high. Melinda has been willing to try different things and is invested in finding the best outcomes for me. I am starting to see my baseline go lower. I can't express how amazing and knowledgeable she is."

— 2024 Annual Review

"Melinda is caring and compassionate. She truely listens and based on that gives excellent guidance and perspective - always clearly explaining options in my treatment journey."

— 2024 Annual Review

We want you to get the support you deserve.

Location

Virtual throughout Oregon & Washington States

Email

hello@upwellpsych.com

Phone

Fax

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