I’m Melissa Harrell, and I’m so glad you’ve dropped in! Whether you’re here out of curiosity or just wandering the web, I’m thrilled to share a bit of my world with you. I’m a counselor, writer, and speaker currently adventuring overseas, supporting the mental health of our amazing military service members and their families.
When I’m not in counselor mode, you’ll probably find me exploring new places, jotting down stories, or chasing good coffee and great conversations. I’m all about sharing the journey—ups, downs, and everything in between—so feel free to tag along by checking out my blog or hanging out with me on social media.
Let’s connect, laugh, learn, and grow together. Ready? Let’s go!

Common Threads: Why the Answers to the Present Lie in the Past
After a major life crisis, Melissa wrote this moving memoir which weaves together her personal life and professional work. She provides resiliency tips, inspirational and uplifting scriptures, and insight and commentary based on her own experiences. Sure to inspire not only those facing challenges but those supporting them.
Order Common Threads: Why the Answers to the Present Lie in the Past

Grounds for Return follows Michelle Richardson as she returns to Chatham, North Carolina, after twenty years in the military to support her sister through a medical crisis. Back in her hometown, Michelle reconnects with family, old friends, and a potential new love, all while confronting the lingering effects of a past tragedy. Set against the backdrop of a vibrant small town, this emotionally rich story explores healing, faith, and the enduring power of home, hope, and human connection.
Order Grounds for Return: A Yadkin Valley Novel
Recent Blog Posts
Who Cares for the Caregiver?
A random flip through a magazine at my doctor’s office revealed an article that nearly knocked me out of my seat. There are approximately 44 million Americans who make up an “invisible workforce” caring daily for aging or ill loved ones. The article featured research...
How We Can R.I.S.E. Against Depression
If you want to know what the face of a person who experiences depression looks like just take a second, look up, and observe the faces of the people around you. Better yet, look in the mirror because like it or not, depression is an equal opportunity invader....
Welcome to My Field of Dreams!
Welcome to Resiliency Counseling and Consulting (RCC) and my field of dreams! You’re cordially invited to join me on a journey of improving mental wellness in your life, community, and world. Whether we’re aware of it or not, we grapple daily with challenges that...