Melanie Smith, LCSW, CA | Psychotherapist

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

Female

Ethnicity

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.

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Popular visit reasons

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Depression

Mood Swings

Postpartum Depression

Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD)

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit

Therapy

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Depression

Mood Swings

Postpartum Depression

Education and background

Practice names

Rula Health - L.A. East

Education and training

California State University Long Beach, Master's in Social Work
University of California, Santa Cruz (Bachelor's)

NPI number

1336522879

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Frequently asked questions

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.