licensed clinical psychologist
Psychotherapist for Anxiety & PTSD in NE Ohio

trauma psychotherapist | therapist for trauma
Meet Melissa Goldsmith, PhD
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist specializing in treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and anxiety disorders (Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and Social Anxiety Disorder) in adults ages 18-64. I have over 15 years of experience providing evidence-based treatments for those conditions. I have treated civilians, veterans, and first responders who had experienced multiple and various types of traumatic events. Some of the types of traumas included physical abuse or assault, sexual abuse or assault, and exposure to death or serious injury.
In the past, I supervised graduate students training to become psychologists and published peer-reviewed research articles on symptoms of posttraumatic stress and anxiety.
In my private practice, I aim to increase civilian awareness and access to CPT and PE, two effective treatments for PTSD.
On a personal note, I live with my husband, son, and our 2 cats, Lightning and Tesla (named after the engineer, not the car). I enjoy cooking and watching Big Ten college football.
trauma psychologist near me
My Background in PTSD and Therapeutic Practices
Psychologist license #7413, Ohio
- B.A. in Psychology
Northwestern University | Evanston, Illinois
- M.S. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology
Florida State University | Tallahassee, Florida
- Clinical Psychology Predoctoral Internship
- Clinical Psychology Postdoctoral Fellowship, Traumatic Stress Center
Summa Health, Akron, Ohio
- Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Worked for 6.5 years at the Traumatic Stress Center with Summa Health in Akron, Ohio
Guiding Principles of my Treatment Approach
C O M P A S S I O N A T E C A R E
You deserve to be treated with empathy and understanding. My practice is built on the belief that true healing happens when you feel supported and cared for in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I’m here to listen, to understand, and to walk with you on your journey to recovery.
E V I D E N C E – B A S E D P R A C T I C E
You deserve treatments that work. That’s why I’m committed to using proven, research-backed therapies that are tailored to meet your specific needs. My approach is grounded in the latest scientific findings, ensuring that the care you receive is effective and aligned with your goals for healing.
E M P O W E R M E N T T H R O U G H H E A L I N G
You deserve to reclaim control over your life. My goal is to equip you with the tools and insights you need to manage your symptoms and overcome the challenges you face. My goal is that eventually you won’t need me, and can return to a general therapist for support. But, together, we’ll work to help you build resilience, confidence, and a renewed sense of self, so you can move forward with strength and peace.
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Resources
The suicide & crisis lifeline is #988. Please call this or 911 if you need immediate help.
PTSD
Videos on PTSD, treatment options, and stories from Veterans, their loved ones, and clinicians who treat PTSD
Anxiety
Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies
Anxiety and Depression Association of America, CBT article
For Supporters
Helpful article for friends and family.
- How to Help a Loved one going through treatment
Article for PE support. Article for CPT support.
The Blog
Articles to Give You Insight
I believe that education is a powerful tool for healing. Whether you’re starting your journey or looking to better understand post-traumatic stress disorder or anxiety therapy, here are some helpful blog posts.
