Melanie Hale   Melanie Hale, LCSW, Director
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
 
Melanie is a licensed clinical social worker, full-time counselor and the diriector for the Office of Psychological Services & Personal Counseling. She has over thirty years of clinical experience working with adult populations, youth and families. She earned her master's degree from Columbia University School of Social Work and a bachelor's degree in sociology from City College of New York. Melanie has worked in a variety of clinical settings prior to her beginnings at Foothill College in 1990. She has also served as part-time instructor and faculty field liaison for the graduate program at San Jose State University College of Social Work.
 
Ernie Schmidt   Ernest Schmidt, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
 
Since 1996, Ernie has dedicated his professional life to helping people work past problems for happier, more fulfilled lives. He holds a bachelor's degree from the University of the Pacific, a master's degree from UC Berkeley, and is a certified cognitive therapist through the Academy of Cognitive Therapy. In addition to practicing at Foothill College in Los Altos Hills, where he provides personal counseling and teaches on the topics of self-help strategies, stress management and emotional wellness, he also has a private practice. Before this, he was employed with Santa Clara County Mental Health where he provided therapy to families and young adults who were having difficulty adjusting to adulthood. He is known for his direct and effective approach and the ability to help his clients achieve their goals without long-term counseling.
 
 
Foothill's Psychological Services & Personal Counseling Office is NOT a 24-hour program.
FOR CRISIS INTERVENTION,
please call:

  • The 24-Hour
    Suicide & Crisis Service
    County of Santa Clara
    1 (855) 278-4204 (toll free)
  • National Suicide Prevention & Hotline for Veterans
    1-800 273-TALK (8255)

FOR LIFE THREATENING EMERGENCIES, please call: 911