Licensed to practice in 2 states and accepts 29 insurances. Specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions and 9 more.
Amesha Smith
(she/her)
As a Black woman, I recognize the many stressors that exist in today’s world and understand that “adulting” brings its own set of challenges. From family dynamics and childhood trauma to work–life balance, finances, relationships, and body image, these experiences can deeply impact everyday life. While navigating these stressors can feel overwhelming, healing and growth are absolutely possible.I take a holistic, client-centered approach that considers the whole person mind, body, and environment. My goal is to support you in exploring challenges, building resilience, and developing practical tools that empower you to live more confidently and authentically. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and confidential space where you can show up as your full self. Together, we will work in a way that respects your lifestyle, values, and unique experiences while helping you move toward the life you want to live
Get to know me
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
Beginning therapy can feel like a big step, and it’s completely normal to feel a mix of emotions before your first session. My goal is to make this process feel as comfortable and supportive as possible. During our first session, we will spend time getting to know each other. I’ll invite you to share what brought you to therapy, what challenges you may be experiencing, and what you hope to gain from our work together. There is no pressure to share everything at once this is your space, and we will move at a pace that feels right for you.I will also ask questions about different areas of your life such as relationships, work, family, and personal experiences so that I can better understand your story and the context of what you’re going through. Together, we will begin identifying goals for therapy and discuss how we can work collaboratively toward meaningful change.Most importantly, the first session is about creating a safe, supportive, and confidential environment where you feel heard and understood. My role is to support you, provide guidance when helpful, and help you develop tools that allow you to move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and balance.You don’t have to have everything figured out before starting therapy. Simply showing up is the first step toward meaningful change.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
I bring warmth, compassion, and authenticity into every session. My goal is to create an environment where you feel safe, supported, and comfortable being your true self. Therapy can be a vulnerable space, and I believe that feeling genuinely seen and understood is an important part of the healing process. I strive to cultivate a calm and relaxing atmosphere where you can openly explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. At the same time, I bring a sense of humor and humanity into our conversations when appropriate, because sometimes laughter and lightness can be just as healing as deep reflection. Most importantly, I approach each client with empathy, curiosity, and respect for their unique story. My role is to walk alongside you, offering guidance, perspective, and encouragement as you work toward the changes and growth you’re seeking.
Specialties
Top specialties
Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
Other specialties
Coping Skills
Grief
Older Adults
Parenting
Peer Relationships
Postpartum
School Issues
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
I identify as
Black / African American
Woman
Serves ages
Adults (18 to 64)
Licensed in
California
Colorado
Accepts
Aetna
Aetna - ASR Health Benefits
Aetna - Allied Benefits
Aetna - Luminare
Aetna - Moda
Aetna - WebTPA
Aetna – HealthEZ
Blue Shield
Blue Shield of California - Medicare
Independence Personal Choice 65 PPO
Independence Keystone 65 HMO
Carelon Behavioral Health (Commercial)
L.A. Care PASC-SEIU
L.A. Care Covered
L.A. Care Covered Direct
Sutter Health Plan
IHSS Healthy Workers
Cash - $150 per session
EAP:Cigna
EAP:Evernorth
Gold Coast Health Plan (Medi-Cal)
Gold Coast Health Plan Total Care Advantage (HMO D-SNP)
Health Plan of San Joaquin/Mountain Valley Health Plan – Medi-Cal
L.A. Care Health Plan (Medi-Cal)
L.A. Care Medicare Plus (HMO D-SNP)
Partnership HealthPlan of California (Medi-Cal)
SFHP Care Plus (HMO D-SNP)
San Francisco Health Plan (Medi-Cal)
Santa Clara Family Health Plan - Medi-Cal
Location
Virtual
My treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. Through structured exercises, we explore the connections between thoughts, emotions, and actions. I guide individuals in developing practical skills, such as cognitive restructuring and behavioral experiments, to create lasting, positive change.
Grief Therapy
I utilize grief therapy by creating a safe, empathetic space where individuals can process their loss at their own pace. I integrate elements like narrative work, meaning-making, and personalized coping strategies to help clients find healing and connection in the midst of their grief.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I use dialectical behavioral therapy to help clients balance acceptance and change. By integrating mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness skills, I support individuals in navigating intense emotions and building a life worth living, all while fostering self-compassion.