Dr. Melani Kovarkizi-Natneil

Dr. Natneil is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in trauma-informed therapeutic modalities, with a focus on intergenerational and interracial trauma.
She brings a wealth of experience in diversity-related concepts, approaching her work from a holistic perspective. Her doctoral research explored the Self-of-therapist framework, delving into factors such as social location, sexual orientation, gender, ethnicity, race, religious beliefs, spirituality, and cultural background.
Throughout her career, Dr. Natneil has held various administrative, clinical, and academic positions. As a professor and Assistant Director in her field, she is dedicated to creating a supportive environment where students can grow, recognizing their strengths and empowering them to make meaningful contributions. Dr. Natneil currently focuses on merging the field of psychology & organizational leadership, collaborating with CEOs, leaders & managers of non-profit organizations to enhance systemic knowledge and experience. Her professional goal is to bridge the gap between mental health and organizational dynamics, fostering environments where leaders can thrive emotionally and professionally while driving meaningful change within their organizations.
Education History
2017 - Doctor of Psychology (PsyD; emphasis in Marriage & Family Therapy), Alliant International University
- Dissertation: "Marriage & Family Therapists’ Experiences of Countertransference"
2014 - Masters in Marriage & Family Therapy (MA), Alliant International University
2012 - B.A. in Psychology, Brandman University
Scholarly Activities
2024-2025
- Vice-Chair Faculty Personnel Committee, UMass Global
2024
- Organizational Leadership Symposiums, Charlotte, NC
- NAMI Walk Team Lead Charlotte, NC
Professional Experience
2020: Assistant Professor, Assistant Clinical Director, UMass Global
2017-2018: Team Leader, San Fernando Valley Community Mental Health Center
- Supervision and Administrative Duties
2016: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist / Consultant, Grace Embraced Counseling & Consulting
Education History
2017 - Doctor of Psychology (PsyD; emphasis in Marriage & Family Therapy), Alliant International University
- Dissertation: "Marriage & Family Therapists’ Experiences of Countertransference"
2014 - Masters in Marriage & Family Therapy (MA), Alliant International University
2012 - B.A. in Psychology, Brandman University
Scholarly Activities
2024-2025
- Vice-Chair Faculty Personnel Committee, UMass Global
2024
- Organizational Leadership Symposiums, Charlotte, NC
- NAMI Walk Team Lead Charlotte, NC
Professional Experience
2020: Assistant Professor, Assistant Clinical Director, UMass Global
2017-2018: Team Leader, San Fernando Valley Community Mental Health Center
- Supervision and Administrative Duties
2016: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist / Consultant, Grace Embraced Counseling & Consulting
Related Programs

Marriage/Family Therapy, MA

Marriage/Family Therapy & Professional Clinical Counseling, MA
