MELISSA L. KILBRIDE, LICSW, CST
Melissa Kilbride completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor and earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work, with a concentration in Mental Health, from the Jane Addams College of Social Work at The University of Illinois at Chicago. Melissa is an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist and completed training with the University of Michigan Sexual Health Certificate Program. Prior to opening her private practice, Melissa provided clinical treatment and crisis intervention in a variety of settings including; hospital emergency rooms, inpatient and outpatient facilities, schools, social service agencies, & the DC Department of Behavioral Health. Melissa also served on the Administrative Team of a network of Chicago charter schools, developing and managing their social service programs, and she has served on the Social Emotional Advisory Board for DC Public Schools. Melissa also presents workshops for parents on topics related to early sexual health education and consent and hosts the Instagram handle @askable_mama to support this work.
Melissa takes an active role in therapy. She believes that incorporating qualities like humor and candidness, can be beneficial both in developing the therapeutic connection and reaching client goals. Her therapeutic approach is strengths-based and eclectic, as she incorporates a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral interventions, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, Relational Therapy, Gottman Method for couples, Sex Therapy, and modern psychodynamic approaches.
Pronouns: she/her/hers