Melissa Wade

Strengths-Based, Solution Focused, and Resilience Therapies for Families, Children, Teens, and Individuals

Melissa Wade, LMSW, MA

Education

Masters in Social Work at Grand Valley State University, School Social Work Certification, Bachelors in Social Work at Grand Valley State University

Training

I was formerly a school social worker for 8 years. Much of my current training pertains to that environment (social emotional learning curricula, behavior treatment planning, suicide first aid, non-violent crisis intervention/de-ecalation, skills building, trauma informed schools, etc).

Credentials

LMSW, MA

“Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity.  It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity.  If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper, more meaningful lives, vulnerability is the path.” -Dr. Brene Brown

According to Dr. Brene Brown, vulnerability is “uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure”.  What brings us to seek therapy often includes these elements, which require a level of courage I will hold in high regard.  I believe in working with the strengths and skills of each person based on their unique life experience to draw out the positive potential within.  We all fall into patterns and ways of being in our personal, work, and family lives.  These are not always healthy, ideal, or aligned with our values. It can seem monumental and near impossible to change from “the way it has always been” to “the way we want it to be.” However, from my experience working with children, adolescents, teens, and their families, I have found that significant positive change is possible when we work together. It is remarkable to see individuals and families move from difficult, unbearable, and emotionally charged daily life, to a place where they are able to feel love, experience more harmony, hold boundaries and meet milestones and goals with a sense of purpose.

Not only have I worked with individuals and families on changing their relationships for the better, I have extensive experience helping people develop resilience when faced with Family Separation/Divorce, Grief and Loss, recovery from Physical and Sexual Abuse, Neglect, and complex family changes with Foster Care Placement and Adoptions. In addition to helping families navigate through the complexities of the above situations, I am an advocate for helping families with challenges that can cause massive disruptions and feelings of shame. I will be non-judgmental and empathetic, I will hold space for you and your story, and you will receive a heart-forward, practical, and empowering approach to counseling.

If you or your family are having difficulties with Mental Health, Behavioral Health, and/or Developmental concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, ASD, ODD, PTSD, self-harm/suicidal ideation, cognitive/emotional impairments, deficits in communication, sensory processing issues, as well as more severe psychiatric diagnoses–then I am here to help you and your loved ones navigate these difficulties, problem solve, learn new methods of dealing with troubles, gather resources, and work toward regaining a sense of joy in life. 

My skill set includes helping individuals who are struggling with emotional awareness, emotional processing/regulation, having difficulty with coping skills, difficulty with school, relationships, the ability to resolve conflicts, and/or is engaging in unsafe behavior. This also includes the ability to support parents/caregivers by listening, providing information and resources, and developing the tools to have a better understanding of their children’s emotional/behavioral presentation and ways to effectively address the areas of concern as a team.


Insurance Accepted



Melissa's Bio

Melissa Wade LMSW is a Licensed Master’s Level Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in the field.  She most recently held a position as a school social worker, where she facilitated individual, small group, and whole classroom social/emotional/behavioral skills lessons. Melissa specializes in working with children, adolescents, and their families. Her approach is rooted in psychoeducation, goal setting, CBT, and skills building, and is strength-based!  Melissa uses a variety of evidence-based interventions and strategies that start with building a safe, trusting relationship.  Melissa is LGBTQIA+ affirming.