mel rolfes is a mind-body practitioner and dog mom based in roanoke, virginia.
“The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are.”
— James Hollis
my story
I was first drawn to this work while studying both psychology and Eastern religious traditions, particularly Buddhism and Taoism, in undergrad. I became fascinated by the ways these traditions intersect and what they reveal about the mind, suffering, and the human experience. During graduate school, I continued following this curiosity by researching how mindfulness could be integrated into the therapeutic setting.
I began my career as a therapist working in hospital emergency mental health settings and later helped develop a behavioral health program for a new community clinic. Over time, especially during the pandemic, the cumulative demands of this work began to take a serious toll. My occupational burnout eventually reached a tipping point, and I stepped down from my director position and started my own private practice.
But my nervous system did not bounce back simply because my career had changed. I was still deeply dysregulated and struggled with my health and well-being long after leaving the healthcare system. Many mornings I woke up in a body that felt like it was being hunted for sport, with a pervasive sense that I had somehow lost myself along the way.
About a year after starting my private practice, and still very much in the midst of this struggle, I decided to pursue a long-held dream of becoming a yoga teacher. The training not only reignited my passion for bringing psychology and Eastern contemplative traditions together, but also helped me develop a personal practice that supported healing my nervous system. In 2025, I furthered my training as a mind-body practitioner and became certified in 5NP auricular acupuncture.
In many ways this work feels full circle. It brings together my background in psychology, my own healing journey, and the practices that helped me find my way back to myself. I am deeply grateful for the path that led me here and for the opportunity to share these practices with others.
what nourishes me
When I’m not working, I enjoy getting lost in a book, caring for my many plants, exploring creative writing, making art, and hosting friends for good food and conversation.
I love spending time in nature, whether walking, kayaking, or riding my bike. I am a life-long learner and impossibly curious, with many interests ranging from neuroscience to astrology.
But my heart is most full when I am spending time with my partner, his two sons, and our beloved fur babies, Chloe and Stormi.
ways to work together
yoga
Grounding breathwork, restorative postures, and gentle movement tailored to your unique needs and experience level.
Available to individuals or groups, in-person and virtually.
5NP
An acupuncture treatment using five points in each ear to calm the nervous system, ease stress, and support overall balance.
In-person sessions in Roanoke, VA.
integrative guidance
Reflective, conversation-based sessions to explore what feels stuck or uncertain, and reconnect with your values and inner wisdom.
Private sessions available virtually.
I hold sliding scale spaces for those who feel called to this work and need financial flexibility. You’re welcome to mention this when you reach out.
⚖️ Friendly note: These offerings are non-clinical, wellness-based experiences and guidance. They are not medical or mental health care and do not create a therapist–client relationship. While I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia, my psychotherapy services are offered separately through my counseling practice.
Please review the full Disclaimer for details.
begin here.
If you’re ready to explore this work, or if you have questions about getting started, I invite you to reach out through my contact form. I’ll be in touch within 24 hours, so we can take the next steps together.
