When it comes to helping our children learn and develop academically, socially, and emotionally, we want them to feel confident about who they are.  At Summit Center, we use a strengths-based approach for assessments, counseling, and treatment versus a more traditional pathologizing model.

If we look at the medical model of disease as a metaphor we can see that it is grounded in finding pathology, and getting rid of that pathogen to regain physical or mental health. This model is also used when learning problems are diagnosed. Students experiencing problems in school are referred to Study Success Teams (SSTs) and private practitioners to determine if they have a "learning disability" or "learning disorder." In essence, the guiding question is often "What is wrong with this child?" But does this approach work and is it helpful?

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"Many gifted adults don't even know that they are gifted," says Melanie. "There are several characteristics of giftedness that if misunderstood in childhood can lead to feelings of defectiveness and isolation in adulthood." Melanie looks beyond IQ at a person's curiosity, sensitivity, intensity, ability to do abstract thinking, and more.

Melanie has written for MSN Health and Fitness, THE THERAPIST Magazine of the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. She is an experienced speaker who has lectured to parent groups at San Fernando Valley schools on topics such as "Talking and Listening to Your Kids" and "How to Teach Self Discipline to Children." She has also lectured locally on recognizing giftedness in adults.

Learn more about Melanie on our Professionals page.

To schedule an appointment with Melanie, please call (310) 478-6505 or email [email protected].