Dr. Melissa Matos

License No.	State
PSY29944	California

As a clinical psychologist specializing in rehabilitation psychology, I help individuals to cope and adapt with chronic illness, and thrive during stressful life changes and transitions. I have advanced training providing culturally-sensitive clinical services across various medical settings. I work with individuals to address psychological issues ranging from mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, to coping with health and life stressors, to navigating body image concerns, visible differences, and overcoming shame and stigmatization.

I specialize in working with individuals with chronic illness/disabilities who may identify from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. My specialty areas include autoimmune disorders (e.g. alopecia, multiple sclerosis) and physical disabilities, and I am a Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist (MSCS).

I am committed to inclusivity and disability advocacy and use affirmative principles that focus on strength and resilience to help individuals feel confident and empowered by their diverse identities.

Multilingual

• English
• Portuguese

My training background and experience has focused on treating psychological conditions in individuals with chronic health issues. I have trained across various community and medical settings such as primary care, physical medicine & rehabilitation, oncology and skilled nursing facilities. I have advanced training working with apparent and non-apparent disabilities including spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, sensory loss (vision and hearing), and acquired brain injuries. I have also have experience performing preoperative psychological evaluations for liver transplant candidates.

I’m trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I).

- Predoctoral Internship:
Pittsburgh VA Healthcare System

- Postdoctoral Fellowship:
Long Beach VA Healthcare System (Rehabilitation Psychology emphasis)

Degrees/Certifications

• Alliant International University - Ph.D., Clinical Psychology
• Chapman University - M.A., Psychology (Marriage & Family Therapy emphasis)
• California State University, Fullerton - B.A., Psychology
• Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers - Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist (MSCS)