Melissa Sutlief

   Melissa is a  Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. She has specialized training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Bemidji State University and went on to get her Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of St. Thomas.    

   Melissa has been a School Social Worker for twenty-eight years. She served as a Region 11 Co-Representative for the Minnesota School Social Worker Association (MSSWA) where she advocated for Minnesota School Social Workers to ensure appropriate mental health services in schools across the state. In her practice, Melissa approaches clients with compassion utilizing a variety of therapeutic modalities including; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness Based strategies. She has a passion for working with adolescents through adulthood.  
 

 Melissa’s heart is at peace when kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking, exploring nature and playing games with her family. Melissa loves the creative arts; painting, drawing, coloring, crocheting, and tending to her grandmother’s braided rugs. Melissa has a black Lab/Collie named “Charlie” who she hopes to train as a Therapy Dog. She also has a gray cat named “Shadow” who knows how to get his needs met. Melissa enjoys all types of music and spends as much time as she can with her three adult children.