Functional Family Therapy Supervisor
Melissa Botticello holds a master’s degree in Clinical Rehabilitation and Counseling and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Louisiana State University. With over 17 years of experience in the behavioral health field, Melissa has dedicated her career to supporting children, families, and individuals through community-based mental health services, advocacy, and evidence-based therapeutic practices.
After relocating to Florida, Melissa served as a Senior Rehabilitation Counselor for the State of Florida, providing comprehensive support and advocacy for individuals with disabilities throughout Orange County. In this role, she assisted individuals in navigating barriers, accessing resources, and developing pathways toward greater independence and an improved quality of life.
Melissa later transitioned her focus toward youth and family mental health services in Polk County, where she spearheaded the development and implementation of the Mental Health Program under the 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant for Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County. Through this initiative, she helped establish mental health supports within after-school programming, expanding access to services for youth and families while promoting early intervention, emotional wellness, and positive youth development.
While remaining a strong advocate and consultant for the Boys & Girls Clubs organization, Melissa joined NAFI in 2022 as a Parenting with Love and Limits (PLL) therapist. In this role, she provided evidence-based family therapy focused on strengthening parent-child relationships, improving communication, and helping families navigate complex behavioral and relational challenges.
In 2023, when Functional Family Therapy (FFT) was introduced to the region, Melissa transitioned into the role of the first FFT therapist serving Circuit 10. Melissa currently serves as the Clinical Supervisor for a team of FFT-certified therapists, providing clinical guidance, consultation, and support to ensure quality service delivery and positive outcomes for families. Alongside her supervisory responsibilities, she continues to maintain her own caseload, remaining directly connected to the families and communities she serves.