Melissa Reeder is a skilled and experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked with diverse populations coping with a variety of psychosocial and environmental challenges for over 10 years. Melissa is well-versed in utilizing trauma-informed practices to build therapeutic relationships with clients coping with addiction, trauma, and serious mental illness. Her critical-thinking skills often lead to innovative solutions in both short-term and long-term psychotherapy and crisis intervention. Melissa is respected within her professional community for her expertise and leadership as a member of interdisciplinary teams.

Melissa began her education at Rhode Island School of Design, where she studied Art and Design Education with a Community Arts Specialization. She then went on to receive her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art, with a concentration in Photography, from Texas State University. She later earned her Master's Degree in Clinical/Medical Social Work at the University of Texas at Austin, where she also did postgraduate work.

Throughout her career, Melissa has held several positions, each one expanding her knowledge and expertise in diverse areas. Melissa is a Social Worker at George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center and has also worked as a Therapist at Central Austin Psychotherapy, a Counselor at Therapy Austin, and a Social Worker II at Austin State Hospital. She has done Clinical Social Work Internships at both the Central Texas Veterans Health Care System and Communities In Schools of Central Texas. Adding to her experience, Melissa has also worked as a Teaching Assistant and Graduate Assistant at The University of Texas at Austin School of Social Work.

Melissa's interests extend beyond her professional work. She has worked as a Play it Safe! Trainer at The Women's Center of Tarrant County and as a Development Director, Youth Program Coordinator, and Development Consultant at Vera Court Neighborhood Center. She has also worked in Development positions at both Creative Commons and the Lussier Community Education Center.