Hi! I'm a Licensed Independent Social Worker based in Ohio. I received my master's degree from Walden University and my bachelor's degree from Mount Vernon Nazarene University. I have been working in the field of social work for 30+ years. I help youth and young adults struggling with a variety of different issues like self-esteem, anxiety, independent living, family issues, problem sexual behaviors, juvenile delinquency and non-suicidal self-harm. An interesting thing about me is that I have worked with youth who were living as Vampires, no judgement, just interesting!
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session together, we just talk. I learn about you, and you are able to learn a little about me and how we can work together. You are the expert of your life. I am here to help you navigate. We will create a plan for us to work through in follow up sessions. Therapy doesn't have to be forever, but a first session is a great start.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
With 30+ years of experience, my greatest strengths as a therapist include deep empathy and the ability to create a safe, non-judgmental space for clients. I excel in building strong, trusting relationships and tailoring my approach to meet each client's unique needs. Additionally, my extensive knowledge of evidence-based therapies and continuous learning ensure that I provide effective, up-to-date support for all my clients.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I enjoy working with youth and young adults. My clients are, sometimes, eager to improve, but don't yet have the tools needed to make this goal a reality. And sometimes, my clients are really struggling, often feel stuck, overwhelmed and anxious about life and what has led them to be in the place they are in today.
About Kimberly Smith
Kimberly Smith offers therapy covered by Buckeye Health Plan, Buckeye Health Plan (Managed Medicaid), Medicaid - Buckeye Health Plan and UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicaid in Ohio.
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Life can be tough sometimes, and it’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of negative thoughts. In our sessions, we’ll work together to figure out what’s getting in the way and find new or different ways to look at things that actually help. I help recognize unhealthy ways of thinking and replace them with more useful ones. We'll talk through challenges and try out different strategies that make it easier to handle stress, increase confidence, and feel more in control. My goal is to help you build skills that make life’s ups and downs feel more manageable so you can feel good about yourself and where you're headed.
Narrative
Your story matters, and how you see yourself has a big impact on your life. In our time together, we’ll take a closer look at the personal stories that shape your identity—ones you’ve told yourself or that others have placed on you. We’ll explore how those narratives influence the way you think, feel, and move through the world. If certain stories feel limiting or unhelpful, we’ll work on reshaping them, so they reflect your strengths, values, and dreams. The goal is to help you take ownership of your story, find confidence in your voice, and step into a version of yourself that feels true and empowering.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
Person-centered therapy is all about creating a space where you can talk freely without worrying about being judged. Being a teenager comes with a lot of emotions and challenges. This kind of therapy gives you the chance to express your thoughts and feelings openly. I’m here to listen—fully, without judgment—so you feel understood and accepted. Instead of telling you what to do, I help you explore your own answers which building confidence in your choices. When you feel truly heard and supported, it becomes easier to understand yourself, strengthen relationships, and work through tough emotions in a healthy way.