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Hello, I'm Deborah (Debbie) Smith. I'm a licensed clinical social worker with over two decades of experience. I provide personalized therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life stage, work, spiritual stress, and more.. Offering a safe space for exploration and healing.
My approach
I integrate evidence-based and faith-based approaches to support your emotional and spiritual well-being journey. I utilize cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, client-centered, and psychodynamic treatment modalities, as well as others. I strive to help you overcome obstacles to the life you want and to reclaim wellbeing and renewed hope.
My focus
I work with adults 18-99, providing individualized therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions, such as relationship loss, career shifts, or relocation. I teach coping strategies for managing the complexities of depression, anxiety, or PTSD, alongside fostering improved interpersonal communication.
My communication style
I provide a safe and nurturing environment that allows clients to relax and feel less anxiety about the therapeutic process. I'm a compassionate listener and collaborate with my clients to support them in healing, finding their strengths, setting goals, and regaining a sense of wellbeing. Clients tell me that they feel heard without judgment and gently guided.
My journey to mental healthcare
My journey began in the rugged beauty of the Kentucky mountains, where I learned the value of strength and perseverance as the youngest of ten children in a family touched by hardship. As a child of divorce, I experienced adversity loss, and uncertainty. I always wanted a college degree but, it would not become a reality until my forties, when I finally pursued and attained my Master’s Degree in Social Work. My lifelong passion for the underdog, hurting or distressed people, led me to pursue a career as a therapist. I understand adversity and am committed to nurturing the resilient human spirit and to guiding individuals on their paths to healing and self-discovery.
My goals for you
Developing the goal of treatment is a collaborative process between myself and my client. Clients often start therapy with a plan to work on a certain issue but, sometimes, change their minds after examining their thoughts/beliefs about that issue. Ultimately, it is the client's decision about what they want to achieve in therapy.
My first session with you
The initial session with clients is focused on gathering demographics, medical/mental health history, discussion about the reason for entering therapy, and what they hope to get out of therapy. We discuss what they expect from a therapist; specific goals, and if they feel that I am a good fit for them.
