Melissa Schmidt, LMSW
Therapy Approach & Specialties
At Ann Arbor Therapy & Testing, Melissa Schmidt, LMSW, is a licensed clinical social worker who brings a collaborative, strength-based, and solution-focused approach to therapy. Melissa is passionate about helping individuals identify their strengths, overcome obstacles, and build the confidence and skills needed to thrive. With over a decade of experience, Melissa specializes in supporting adolescents and young adults as they navigate challenges related to:
Self-Awareness – Encouraging insight and reflection to help clients better understand themselves and their experiences.
- Anxiety
- Executive Functioning
- Motivation
- Attention
- Academic stress
- Social development particularly with Autism or social delays
Melissa utilizes evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness to guide her work. She also offers specialized Executive Function Skills Coaching designed to support teens and young adults in improving areas like planning, organization, decision-making, attention, self-regulation, and problem-solving—skills essential for success in both academic and everyday life.
Education and Work Experience
Melissa earned her Bachelor of Social Work from Saginaw Valley State University and her Master of Social Work from Wayne State University. She holds a school social worker certification and has previously worked as a high school social worker in Washtenaw County. Her past experiences includes job coaching for individuals with disabilities, helping young adults build both personal and professional skills for independence and growth, and working with a local non-profit focusing on mental health with athletes in a high school setting.
Core Values
- Empathy – Meeting each client with compassion, understanding, and a nonjudgmental space to be heard.
- Self-Awareness – Encouraging insight and reflection to help clients better understand themselves and their experiences.
- Resilience – Fostering the ability to adapt, recover, and grow through life’s ups and downs.
- Positive Mindset – Helping clients reframe challenges and discover opportunities for growth and hope.
- Improved Self-Esteem – Supporting the development of self-worth, confidence, and belief in one’s potential.
Melissa believes in the power of small wins, shared laughter, and moments of joy— especially in the midst of personal growth and healing.
Fun Facts
Outside of therapy, Melissa enjoys coaching a high school golf team, traveling and exploring new corners & restaurants of Detroit, and spending time with her husband and their dog. Whether on the course, on the road, or at home, she brings the same values of presence, encouragement, and curiosity that guide her work as a therapist.