Dr. Melissa Mitchell, PsyD, EdS Certified Educational Psychologist in CT, PA, & CA
As a certified school psychologist with advanced training in educational psychology and over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, and families, I focus on building self-esteem and emotional resilience as the foundation for lasting change. At the heart of my work is a deep belief that every child deserves to feel seen, understood, and valued.

Approach

My approach is warm, gentle, and collaborative, creating a space where children and families feel safe to open up and grow. My work is integrative and individualized, drawing from an array of research-driven techniques, including:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

•  Executive functioning strategies

• Play-based interventions

• Attachment-informed frameworks

• Mindfulness strategies

• Stress reduction techniques

• Self-esteem enhancement

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No matter the approach, my priority is always the same: to help children feel more confident in who they are and to ensure parents feel supported on the journey alongside them.

Specialties

Having spent many years in school systems, I bring an insider’s perspective to educational challenges and advocacy. I am well-versed in special education law, IEP/504 processes, and school collaboration. My clients often benefit from my ability to bridge home, school, and therapeutic environments in a cohesive and supportive way.

I have extensive training and experience with the following:

• Children & adolescents (ages 5–18)

•  Parent coaching

• Anxiety, depression, and trauma

• ADHD and perfectionism

• Executive functioning challenges

• Social-emotional skills and self-esteem building

• Educational advocacy and IEP/504 support

• College students and young adults navigating life transitions

• Supporting children and teens with medical trauma or chronic health needs

Clinical Background

I began my career in Pennsylvania before relocating to California, where I continued supporting students in both states through in-person and telehealth services. I was so moved by the power and potential of telepractice—especially in expanding access to meaningful care—that I went on to author From Survival to Service: The Life-Altering Impacts of Telepractice, a practical and heartfelt guide for providers navigating this evolving space.
Though I remain certified in California, I now live on the East Coast and primarily serve children and families in Pennsylvania and Connecticut—both through private practice and in partnership with schools.

Credentials and Contributions

I am a Certified School Psychologist in Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and California, and hold a Doctoral Degree (PsyD) in Educational Psychology. I have authored several books and articles that reflect my commitment to increasing access to high-quality mental health services for children, supporting parents with practical tools, and equipping schools with resources to foster student well-being.

• From Survival to Service: the life-altering impacts of telepractice (book; author)

• How teletherapy can transform mental health services in schools (article; author)

• Demystifying student behavior: Understanding the goals of functional behavior assessment (article; author)

• A conversation with Melissa Mitchell, author of From Survival to Service (podcast; guest)