Melissa Smith, PhD, ABSNP

Associate Director of Assessment, Occupational Therapy and Neurodiversity Services

Pronouns: she/her

Melissa joined the JHU Student Mental Health Services team in the summer of 2024 to start new service offerings for students who need psychological evaluations, occupational therapy, or neurodiversity support. Prior to this, Melissa directed a testing, tutoring, and counseling department at an interdisciplinary nonprofit that supported children through adults with diverse needs across the neurodivergent spectrum. Melissa is a strong advocate for disability justice, as well as the inclusion of intersecting identities in our understanding of neurodiversity.

Melissa holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Catholic University. Her undergraduate degree from The University of Puget Sound includes a double major in music and sociology, with a minor in African American studies. Melissa is board certified in school neuropsychology. Additionally, Melissa has a postgraduate certificate in trauma studies. Her clinical interests include neuropsychology, neurodiversity, first-generation and limited income (FLI) student experiences, developmental trauma, and justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. Her therapeutic orientation is humanistic and integrative. Her assessment theoretical conceptualization is in strengths-based and culturally responsive care.

Outside of work, Melissa enjoys spending time with her family, including her dogs, traveling, and volunteering in the theater community.