Melissa Parker, LCSW


Melissa Parker portraitTherapeutic Style: My therapeutic practice is informed from an integrative approach of relational/interpersonal, motivational interviewing and skills-based style, using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I work in collaboration with students to achieve personal goals and problem-solve from a holistic, strength-based and multicultural framework.

Professional Interests: I previously worked as the program director and counselor for a dually licensed mental health and chemical dependence clinic. My areas of professional interest include substance abuse and treatment for addictions, identity development, mindfulness, building resilience and coping with grief and loss. I have familiarity working in both intensive and non-intensive treatment programs, and I have several years of practice providing group therapy. I have experience delivering treatment in residential and community agency settings with individuals, children and families. I have completed the Safer People, Safer Spaces training offered by the Syracuse University LGBTQ Resource Center, Conversations About Race and Ethnicity (C.A.R.E.) dialogue offered by Multicultural Affairs and the Orange Recovery Ally training. I have an interest in working with members of these communities.

Group and Liaison Roles: I have facilitated psychoeducational and process groups at the Barnes Center at The Arch. I have co-facilitated an Undergraduate Process Group and Recovery Group for students who are practicing abstinence from substance use or living a sober lifestyle. I have facilitated the skilled-based Building Resilience Group. I previously coordinated and was a member of the Barnes Center Alcohol and Drug Intervention Team and facilitated the Options Education Groups and workshops. I assist with training and development for our Peer Educators who work within Options and Recovery in Health Promotion.

Educational Background: I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with my “R” Psychotherapy privilege. I received a bachelor’s degree from Ithaca College with a concentration in clinical sociology. I earned a master’s degree in social work at Syracuse University. I completed internship and training experiences in an urban elementary school for children in grades K-8 and a rural community mental health agency providing clinical work. I gained my Clinical Social Worker certification in 2012.

DEIA Trainings: Disability, Gender Identity, Indigenous/First Nation Students, International Students, Racial/Ethnic Identity, Religion/Spirituality, Sexual Identity and Socioeconomic Status.

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers