My name is Amy Smith and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Central Florida. I work primarily with clients ranging from adolescence to young adulthood and specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, family issues, and life transitions.
My approach
Every client and their circumstances are different from each other. I pull tools from different modalities that will best fit the client and their situation. The approaches that I look to most are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, and person-centered approach. I feel these help us as a team with introspection and self-efficacy to clear our path to achieving goals.
My focus
I have extensive experience working with teens and young adults. The challenges I have found prevalent in these populations that I address with them are stress, anxiety, depression, social/relationship challenges, and family/blended family issues.
My communication style
I always strive first and foremost to create a warm and welcoming environment for all my clients. It's important to me that as a client you feel safe, relaxed, and at peace in our working relationship. A lot of people don't feel seen or heard in their daily life and I always strive for that in sessions.
My journey to mental healthcare
My interest in psychology started in high school as I was involved in a psychology program and club. From there I went on to college for a teaching degree, but ended up switching my major due to psychology courses I took. I really found enjoyment in those courses and felt it was the right thing for me. From there I received my BS in Psychology and an MA in Mental Health and I have been doing this ever since. I have always had a supportive nature towards people since I was young and it's never left me.
My goals for you
Goals will be based on your priorities and the ability to achieve what is desired. Realistic, measurable goals are key to progress. Honest and effective communication will help us get there. Having trust and rapport will be important in this process.
My first session with you
The first session will be spent just getting to know each other. Feeling comfortable is important for an effective therapeutic relationship. A lot of people feel anxious when starting counseling because it's new to them, and they don't know what to expect. My goal is for you to feel relieved, happy, and hopeful after the first session.