What patients are saying
Overall rating
5.00
Average wait time
5.00
Bedside manner
5.00
“I felt heard and supported during my first session. The therapist created a calm, safe space and asked thoughtful questions.”
Elizabeth R.January 11, 2026Video visit
“It’s been great working with Melissa. She is a kind and authentic person, who carries herself in a professional manner. She listens well to what I have to say-and then gives thoughtful and incisive feedback. She’s helped me a lot along this therapeutic journey-and I believe she can help you too!”
DELess than 6 months ago
About Melissa Gillis
Focus areas
Bereavement / Grief Counseling
Couples Therapy
Mental Health Problem
Burnout
Depression
Therapy
Caregiver Burnout
Life Transition
Clientele seen
Young adults (18-24)
Individuals
Adults (25-64)
Couples
Seniors (65+)
Families
Treatment approaches
Attachment-based
Gottman Method
Compassion Focused
Humanistic
Family / Marital
Narrative
Identity
Gender
FemaleEthnicity
White
Languages spoken
English
Getting to know Melissa Gillis
Hi, I’m Melissa. I work with clients who feel out of balance, unfulfilled, or like they’re not living the life they once envisioned. Whether that’s due to major life transitions, caregiving demands or simply feeling stuck, these experiences can shake your sense of identity and purpose. I bring empathy and practical insight to the challenges of juggling multiple roles and finding balance.
Human stories are what drive me. My role as a therapist (AMFT) backed by a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology has given me a unique perspective on human connection, attachment patterns, and the stories we tell ourselves about who we are.
My approach focuses on helping you navigate complex relationships and explore your personal identity through self-discovery. Understanding how attachment patterns influence your connections and sense of self is a powerful step toward reclaiming your narrative. Together, we’ll rewrite the stories that no longer serve you and build healthier relationships and a clearer sense of who you are.
A shift in perspective helps create space between you as an individual and the challenges you face. By locating problems outside of you—often within broader social, institutional, or political contexts—we preserve your dignity and open the door to hope and possibility. When we step back from the weight of the problem, you gain the breathing room to find your ethical footing, reclaim your life’s direction, and take meaningful, decisive action toward the future you want.
If you’re facing challenges, feeling stuck, or seeking clarity and confidence to move into your next chapter, I’m here to help you explore your strengths and values to create a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. If you’re ready to take the next step toward healing and growth (even if you don’t know what that looks like), I’d love to work with you.
What should a new client know about working with you?
If you’re facing challenges, feeling stuck, or seeking clarity and confidence to move into your next chapter, I’m here to help you explore your strengths and values to create a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. If you’re ready to take the next step toward healing and growth (even if you don’t know what that looks like), I’d love to work with you.
Melissa is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT158750) and is currently working under the supervision of a licensed practitioner. Their current employer is Virginia Gutman LCSW Counseling Services
What is your typical process for working with clients?
My approach focuses on helping you navigate complex relationships and explore your identity. Understanding how attachment patterns influence your connections and sense of self is a powerful step toward reclaiming your narrative. Together, we’ll rewrite the stories that no longer serve you, build healthier relationships and a clearer sense of who you are.
Is this doctor in your insurance network?
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In-network insurances
Melissa Gillis, AMFT has 100+ in-network plans.
Out-of-pocket fees and assistance
Initial session: $150 for 50 minutes
Ongoing session: $150 for 50 minutes
- Files your insurance claim: You pay the session fee upfront and the provider files the claim for you, so you can get reimbursed directly without worrying about the paperwork
More information on payments and coverage
In-Network Plans
Optum
United Medical Resources (UMR)
UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
Out-of-Network
I accept clients claiming on their OON benefits.
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- Pepperdine University, Master's in Clinical Psychology
Professional memberships
- California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
NPI number
1015202546
Patient reviews
All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
5.00
Wait time
5.00
Bedside manner
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
11 reviews
Most relevant
I felt heard and supported during my first session. The therapist created a calm, safe space and asked thoughtful questions.
January 11, 2026Elizabeth R.Verified patientVideo visit
Love working with Melissa and would recommend her to anyone going through any kind of transition in their life.
Less than 6 months agoMM
I was able to feel comfortable and supported very easily with Melissa help. Highly recommend!!
Less than 6 months agoTK
It’s been great working with Melissa. She is a kind and authentic person, who carries herself in a professional manner. She listens well to what I have to say-and then gives thoughtful and incisive feedback. She’s helped me a lot along this therapeutic journey-and I believe she can help you too!
Less than 6 months agoDE
Melissa is a kind and compassionate therapist. She is patient and provides a warm energy in the room that is welcoming and supportive. I highly recommend Melissa to anyone that is seeking a therapist.
Less than 6 months agoHK
Melissa brings an authentic warmth and clarity to her work that helps clients feel instantly at ease. She listens deeply, offers thoughtful insight, and supports clients in finding their own path toward healing and growth. She is kind, thoughtful, and easy to talk to. Melissa really takes the time to understand what’s going on and offers practical ways to cope. I always feel heard and supported after our sessions.
Less than 6 months agoSL
March 16, 2026Kristen L.Verified patientVideo visit
Less than 3 months agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
January 6, 2026haley H.Verified patientVideo visit
Less than 6 months agoLA
Less than 6 months agoRT
How soon can I make an appointment with Melissa Gillis?
Generally, Melissa Gillis has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Melissa Gillis's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Melissa Gillis accepting new patients?
Melissa Gillis generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Melissa Gillis's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Melissa Gillis accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Melissa Gillis is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Melissa Gillis online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Melissa Gillis using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Melissa Gillis work with?
Melissa Gillis works with Ginny Gutman, LCSW Counseling Services.
What are common reasons for patients to see Melissa Gillis?
Melissa Gillis frequently sees patients for Depression, New Patient Visit, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Melissa Gillis on their profile.
What languages does Melissa Gillis speak?
Melissa Gillis speaks English.
How do patients rate Melissa Gillis in reviews?
11 patients have reviewed Melissa Gillis. The overall rating for this doctor is 5/5. They have a 5/5 rating for bedside manner and a 5/5 rating for wait time. You can read individual reviews and ratings on their profile.