Hi, my name is Melissa and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been a clinical counselor for over 14 years with my undergrad and graduate degrees in social work. My calling has always been in mental health; however I have also worked in domestic violence, child welfare, substance abuse, school social work and working with our men and women in the military and their dependents. My approach to therapy is a simple one...to meet my clients where they are. Life can be difficult, I want to provide a safe, confidential space to help you work through whatever challenges you may be experiencing. I am experienced in working with depression, anxiety, stress, self esteem, grief/loss, domestic violence, substance abuse and many other mental health disorders and life challenges. I feel with my whole heart that we all benefit by having someone outside of our personal circle to process our thoughts and emotions with. Therapy looks different for everyone. In therapy I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and many times an Eclectic approach to meet the individual needs of my clients. Whether this is your first time (kudos to you for taking this step) or if you are looking for a new therapist to help you address your concerns and goals, I look forward to working through life’s challenges with you.
Additional areas of focus: Addictions, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Career difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Compassion fatigue, ADHD, Caregiver issues and stress, Commitment issues, Coping with natural or human-caused disaster, Domestic violence, Family problems, Forgiveness, Mood disorders, Panic disorder and panic attacks, Post-traumatic stress, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Self-love, Social anxiety and phobia, Women's issues, Young adult issues
Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy
FL LCSW SW13405
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Melissa Smith. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
I’m very happy with the relationship I’m building with Melissa. She is easy to talk to, shows empathy and understanding, and helps to ground you. Her guidance has been helpful and gives me the sense of having the outlet I need. I’m looking forward to my continued relationship with her.
Written on Aug 27, 2024 after therapy with Melissa for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, and grief
Melissa is a kind, genuine, and relatable person. She knows how to help you feel comfortable at the beginning of sessions to ease off any nervousness as well as listening to me and accurately hearing me to the point where I feel completely understood and “held” during sessions. She’s awesome!
Written on Jul 14, 2024 after therapy with Melissa for 2 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, grief, self esteem, coping with life changes, and adhd