Dr. Melissa Smith, LPCC-S, NCC

I earned my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology, specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy, from Chaminade University in Honolulu, Hawaii in 2011. Inspired by my journey as the daughter of a recovering alcoholic, I dedicated myself to understanding addiction within familial contexts.

My journey for understanding led me to engage in diverse roles within community behavioral health settings, including employment within the prison system, child protective services, and leading addiction treatment programs, as well as establishing a private practice. These experiences cultivated a deep empathy within me for individuals affected by addiction, whether they were personally struggling or navigating the challenges alongside their loved ones.

While navigating the complexities of addiction during the day, I discovered my passion for teaching as an Adjunct Faculty member at local colleges during the evenings. I found fulfillment in leading classrooms, employing creative teaching methods, and fostering engaging learning environments. However, after eight years as an adjunct, I aspired to make more significant contributions to academia and the counseling field.

In 2021, I embraced my mission to become a counselor educator and supervisor and enrolled in a Ph.D. program. I firmly believe in the importance of actively guiding and supporting emerging counselors as they navigate the challenges of their profession. Recognizing the profound impact of authentic mentorship, I am committed to fostering growth and resilience among counselors, ultimately benefiting both clients and the counseling profession as a whole.

In 2024, I successfully completed my dissertation titled "Counselor Educators' Acceptance of Immersive and Interactive Virtual Reality as a Pedagogical Tool: An Application of the UTAUT Model” and completed the requirements necessary to obtain my doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision. My research underscores my commitment to integrating innovative technologies into counselor education and enhancing the learning experience for students.

My commitment to this mission is reflected in my Curriculum Vitae which provides further insights into my background and expertise. I am eager to bring my experience and dedication to a faculty position, where I can contribute to the development of future counselors and advance the field of counseling. You can learn more about my teaching and supervision philosophy and review my CV in the links below.

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