Meet Melissa

Melissa Phenix is a registered nurse with a dual major in Psychology and a lifelong passion for music as a pathway to healing. A survivor of childhood abuse and stage IV breast cancer, Melissa has transformed her personal journey of trauma and resilience into a powerful calling to serve others.

She understands firsthand the restorative power of music to heal emotional wounds, regulate the nervous system, and inspire hope—crediting guitar, singing, and songwriting as lifelines throughout her own recovery.

As Chair of Mission & Outreach for the Marnie Knaak Music & Resilience Foundation (MKMRF), Melissa blends her clinical expertise in mental health with her lived experience as a trauma survivor to help create safe, compassionate spaces where young people can thrive. She is dedicated to ensuring that every child touched by trauma has access to music education, creative expression, and the opportunity to discover their own strength and voice through the transformative gift of music.