What patients are saying
Overall rating
5.00
“Finding a therapist who truly gets you is rare, and she is simply phenomenal. Melanie has an intuitive understanding of my lived experiences, making our sessions incredibly effective. She is relentlessly supportive and encouraging, always championing my growth. But what makes her exceptional is that she won‚Äôt just nod along‚Äîshe calls me on my shit and holds me accountable. She strikes the perfect balance of deep empathy and constructive tough love. Truly everything a great therapist should be!”
Less than 1 month ago
About Melanie Smith
Focus areas
Anxiety
Depression
Relationship Struggles
Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Domestic Violence
Therapy For Chronic Pain / Illness
Coping Mechanism Development
Life Transition
Clientele seen
Young adults (18-24)
Adults (25-64)
Individuals
Treatment approaches
Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Compassion Focused
Identity
Gender
FemaleEthnicity
Black or African American
Languages spoken
English
Getting to know Melanie Smith
Hi there, I'm Melanie!
In my practice, I like to provide a space that is free of judgment. It is important for patients to trust that they can be their authentic selves in therapy in order to start the process of healing.
My approach
I am there as a guide. I assist the client in reframing and changing negative self-talk. My approach to therapy utilizes Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Compassion Focused, Narrative, Person-Centered, Strength-Based, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Grief Therapy, Racial Trauma Recovery, and Solution Focused.
My focus
The patient population I assist consists of women and men from diverse backgrounds, cultures, sexual orientations, ages, and circumstances. I speak with pregnant women, pre- and postpartum; life and social role shifts and changes. Women and men who have had a pregnancy or infant loss. I’ve also worked with death and dying. Those who are facing a terminal illness like cancer. Anticipatory grief and bereavement. Survivors and those still struggling with intimate personal violence both women and men.
My communication style
Patients say I have a calming tone. They also share with me how I show empathy, and compassion and actively listen. Patients feel comfortable speaking with me. I am not an expert on their experiences. Therefore, I do not perceive to know who they are immediately or state what a patient “should” or “shouldn’t “ do. I facilitate the process for clients to come to their own solutions.
My journey to mental healthcare
There is so much to say about one own experiences. Everyone’s experience is unique. We all have a different story to tell but despite that difference, there are instances we can all relate to. I have always been interested in learning more about the human experience of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color), gay and transgender women's mental health issues. Women’s Maternal Mental Health is my passion because there is silence and isolation surrounding this topic.
Is this doctor in your insurance network?
Enter your insurance carrier and plan
choose insurance
In-network insurances
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
UnitedHealthcare
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- California State University Long Beach, Master's in Social Work
- University of California, Santa Cruz (Bachelor's)
NPI number
1336522879
Patient reviews
All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
5.00
Your trust is our top concern, so providers can't pay to alter or remove reviews. We also don't publish reviews that contain any private patient health information. Learn more here
2 reviews
Most relevant
Melanie is empathic, thoughtful, and easy to relate to. Her approach is supportive and warm.
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
Finding a therapist who truly gets you is rare, and she is simply phenomenal. Melanie has an intuitive understanding of my lived experiences, making our sessions incredibly effective. She is relentlessly supportive and encouraging, always championing my growth. But what makes her exceptional is that she won’t just nod along—she calls me on my shit and holds me accountable. She strikes the perfect balance of deep empathy and constructive tough love. Truly everything a great therapist should be!
Less than 1 month agoInitials hiddenSource: Partner
How soon can I make an appointment with Melanie Smith?
Generally, Melanie Smith has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Melanie Smith's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Melanie Smith accepting new patients?
Melanie Smith generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Melanie Smith's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Melanie Smith accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Melanie Smith is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Melanie Smith online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Melanie Smith using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Melanie Smith work with?
Melanie Smith works with Rula Health - L.A. East.
What are common reasons for patients to see Melanie Smith?
Melanie Smith frequently sees patients for Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Melanie Smith on their profile.
What languages does Melanie Smith speak?
Melanie Smith speaks English.