Melissa Simon, M.A., AMFT
Melissa Simon, M.A., is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT#158175) at California Counseling Clinics, where she is gaining supervised clinical hours toward licensure. Melissa has worked with adults of all ages in residential addiction treatment, providing individual and group therapy that integrates spirituality, psychotherapy, and 12-step recovery. During her time at Beit T’Shuvah, she facilitated a weekly Sex and Love group, helping clients explore patterns of attachment, intimacy, and relational dynamics in recovery. Melissa brings a holistic approach to therapy, honoring the connection between the mind, body, and spirit, balanced with an evidence-based approach. She incorporates elements of spirituality, mindfulness, wellness, and relational healing into her work when relevant, believing that lasting change emerges when the whole person is supported. With prior experience providing DIR/Floortime therapy to neurodiverse children and adults, she has developed a strong foundation in tailoring treatment to meet each individual’s unique needs, strengths, and developmental profile. She is particularly passionate about supporting individuals navigating life transitions, anxiety, depression, relational challenges, and the lasting impact of early attachment. Her areas of interest also include identity development, self-esteem, and integrative mental health. Melissa takes a person-centered, relational, and strengths-based approach to therapy. She balances psychodynamic insight with action-oriented modalities, viewing the therapeutic relationship as a powerful tool for fostering emotional safety, self-awareness, and meaningful growth. Melissa holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles. She also has a background in communication and branding, with prior degrees from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
Education
- Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology, Antioch University Los Angeles
- Master of Science in Strategic Brand Communication, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Bachelor of Arts in Journalism with an emphasis in Strategic Communication, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Clinical Experience
- Adaptive Skills Trainer & Therapist, Joyful Development
- Practicum Clinician, Beit T’Shuvah
- Youth Mentor, Friendship Circle
Populations I Commonly Work With
Anger Management, Anxiety, Depression, Dual Diagnosis, Family Conflict, Grief, Internet Addiction, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Sexual Addiction, Sleep or Insomnia, Spirituality, Stress, Substance Use, Suicidal Ideation, Women’s Issues
Modalities
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Psychodynamic
Attachment-based
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
Solution-Focused
Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
Age Ranges
Teens (14+), Adults (18+), Older Adults (65+)
Special Trainings
- Distance Learning Center for Addiction Studies: Ethical Behavior for the Addiction Professional
- American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM): ASAM Multidimensional Assessment