I've always been curious about people. I enjoy asking questions, understanding relationships, and exploring how our experiences shape the way we see ourselves and respond to the world around us. I feel fortunate that I get to do that work every day.
Melissa Smith, LMFT
Growing up in a large blended family gave me an early appreciation for the many ways relationships, changing family roles, and life experiences influence who we become. Those experiences shaped the way I understand people long before I became a therapist. Like many people, there have been times throughout my life when I benefited from the support of therapy myself. That experience continues to reinforce my belief that asking for help is a sign of strength and that meaningful change often begins with having a safe place to better understand ourselves.
The first part of my career was in social work and human services, where I worked with adults with intellectual and cognitive disabilities and the people who supported them. My work included case management, quality assurance, investigations, and collaborating with professionals across multiple systems to help individuals with complex needs. Those experiences strengthened my understanding that people do not exist in isolation. Relationships, family systems, community supports, and life circumstances all influence emotional well being and quality of life.
When I discovered Marriage and Family Therapy, I immediately felt at home. It reflected the way I had naturally come to understand people throughout my personal and professional life. Rather than viewing problems in isolation, I was drawn to understanding the larger context, the relationships involved, the patterns that develop over time, and the strengths people already possess.
Today, I help people better understand how the world affects them, and how they affect the world around them.
My Approach
I believe therapy should be thoughtful, collaborative, and direct. While my work is grounded in attachment, systems, solution focused, and strategic therapy models, I tailor therapy to each person, couple, or family to be person centered and relationship centered.
My role is to ask thoughtful questions, help you recognize patterns, offer honest feedback, and work alongside you to create meaningful and lasting change. My hope is that therapy helps you leave with greater understanding, stronger relationships, and the confidence to navigate life beyond the therapy room.
Education & Experience
I earned my Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Regis University and am licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Colorado.
Before entering private practice, I worked in social work and human services, experiences that continue to influence the way I understand people, relationships, and the larger systems that shape our lives.
In addition to providing therapy, I completed a 40-hour mediation training to better understand what many of my clients are experiencing and provide consultation for individuals navigating mediation and co-parenting decisions. I also participate in ongoing professional training each year to continue expanding my clinical knowledge and providing current, evidence informed care.
