Dr. Melani Kovarkizi-Natneil

Assistant Clinical Director, Assistant Professor of Psychology
Arts and Sciences
Marriage and Family Therapy, Professional Clinical Counseling, Trauma, Organizational Counseling, Leadership Development and Systems Training

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

Therapist with couple
Psychology & Counseling

Marriage/Family Therapy, MA

Navigating relationships is difficult at the best of times. As a marriage and family therapist, you’ll help individuals, couples, and families work through problems and past roadblocks. Earn your UMass Global MFT degree online with in-person practicum hours.
Jun 23, 2025
Counselor with couple
Psychology & Counseling, Behavioral Science

Marriage/Family Therapy & Professional Clinical Counseling, MA

Through a mix of online coursework and supervised in-person fieldwork, this dual emphasis MFT and PCC graduate degree prepares students for a career as a practicing clinical therapist. In that role, you’ll help individuals, couples, and families manage and work through relationship, personal, and psychological difficulties.  
Jun 23, 2025
Counselor with patient
Psychology & Counseling

Professional Clinical Counseling, MA

This master’s in professional clinical counseling prepares you to become a licensed professional counselor, evaluating and addressing mental and emotional issues with clients in a variety of settings. Build your counseling foundation with a career-focused blend of theory, technique, and practical experience.  
Jun 23, 2025