School of Medicine

Section of Clinical Psychology

Melissa Dufrene, PsyD, ABPP

Dr. Melissa Dufrene is a licensed and Board Certified clinical psychologist. She completed a bachelor of science in psychology at Louisiana State University, where she spent time working in the student mental health clinic and developed a love for LSU football. She then earned her PsyD in clinical psychology from The School of Professional Psychology at Forest Institute in 2012. Dr. Dufrene has completed research in the areas of ADHD, obesity, and child abuse. She has trained in a wide range of facilities, including inpatient and residential hospitals, schools, community health centers, and private practices. Dr. Dufrene gained extensive training and experience in OCD-spectrum disorders during her predoctoral internship at Rogers Memorial Hospital in Wisconsin. While at Rogers, Dr. Dufrene spent significant time working at the residential OCD treatment program. These experiences have contributed to her effective use of cognitive-behavioral therapy in a manner that allows for the incorporation of cultural diversity, humor, and attention to overall wellness.

As the clinic director of Rise Center for OCD and Anxiety, Dr. Dufrene endeavors to increase access to the treatment and training of OCD and anxiety disorders. She is thrilled to be working in coordination with Dr. Kristin Fitch to create programs for clients and providers that offer the most comprehensive approaches to effective assessment and treatment. 

Contact Dr. Dufrene at riseocdandanxiety@gmail.com or via www.riseocdandanxiety.com.