Melissa Kullman, LCSW — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Melissa!

I am an LCSW who worked as a Special Education teacher for many years. I am dedicated to helping clients on the Autism Spectrum, as well as those with special needs, and their families. I also assist new teachers in this field. Social skills, stress relief, behavioral, and organizational assistance are areas I specialize in.

My focus

My client's focus is about determining how to best help them reach their goals through asking questions and analyzing answers for the best solutions and support.

My approach

My treatment approach is based on what the clients need. Respecting their needs and information, listening to what they ask for, and guiding them toward their goals is most important. I am direct, but kind, providing skills needed as well as support.

My communication style

I communicate directly, tempered with respect, kindness, compassion, and logic. I believe the clients' interaction and information are the most important basis for support, guidance, and help.

My journey to mental healthcare

I started out as an LCSW and social worker with special needs children and adults. I then spent many years as a Special Education and General Education teacher. I have extensive experience with people on the Autism Spectrum and with developmental special needs. I retired from teaching to work with special needs clients.

My goals for you

I help clients set and reach goals by organizing questioning, based upon information from clients, observational information, and analysis using graphic organizers, with specifics related to their stated needs, and additional goals per therapeutic needs.

Our first session

I introduce myself, explain the process, and ask how I can help the clients. I reassure them that it is natural to feel nervous or uncertain, to take whatever time is needed, and to ask me anything. I ask what experience they may have with psychotherapy and what their goals are. I listen to them and together formulate a basic plan of action.

I identify as...

Female
Caucasian or White
Jewish

Expertise

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Humanistic

Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

Art Therapy

Compassion Focused

Dance/Movement Therapy

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Music Therapy

+ 9 more

Focus populations

Educators

Gay

LGBTQIA+

Lesbian

Non-Binary

Queer

+ 6 more

Therapy types

Couples Therapy
Family Therapy
Individual Therapy

Ages served

Children
Minors
Preteens
Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

WebTPA
Aetna
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem

+ 37 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Master of Social Work (MSW) in Mental Health from San Diego State University.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Melissa Kullman