Derrick Smith
It's often difficult to know what you want and to pursue what you want. Especially, if broken patterns and negative family cycles are making you feel stagnant. There is an excitement that comes from building your own self-assurance and confidence as you stand securely in the story you want to live.
I'm strong in the skill that I also need often - the "gentle challenge." We often need empathy and to be seen, but at times we also need someone to shine a light on what we can't see.
Sometimes we wait to change our story because we don't feel ready. My hope is that we can all have the wisdom and courage to explore ourselves with compassion so that we can better love ourselves and love others. Let's create a foundation that allows us to live balanced personally, professionally, and relationally.
First session
In the first session of counseling, we'll lay the foundation for the work you'll do and how I will help. We'll cover what you need to know about the counseling relationship, and we'll get started on what brings you into counseling.
Strengths
I'm strong in the skill that I also need often - the "gentle challenge." We often need empathy and to be seen, but at times we also need someone to shine a light on what we can't see. I help clients feel seen, and also help them shine a flashlight on part of their story that they might be keeping in the dark.
Ideal clients
My own experience in counseling has helped create my approach to therapy. At times it will feel like an easy stroll. At other times it will feel like a hike without a clear trail. But the goal is to help you overcome obstacles, live with meaning, and be centered, grounded, and open in your own life. The clients I work with name what thoughts/feelings/stories are holding them back, and together we do the work to respond rather than react to those.
Treatment methods
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
Have you ever felt that your thoughts and your feelings and your actions just weren't in sync at all? ACT helps us increase our "psychological flexibility" so that we can not only handle the curveballs life throws at us, but also build the life we want with intention.
Motivational Interviewing
Change is hard. Motivational interviewing is suited to help spark and nurture change. There might be things keeping you from making changes you haven't considered yet.
Narrative
Our brains are always telling the story of our lives. They fill in any gaps with the narratives we believe about ourselves. Narrative therapy can help you grab the pen and change the story of your life.
Location
Virtual sessions
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Doesn't specialize in
Licensed in
- TennesseeLicense 6538