Licensed to practice in 2 states and accepts 9 insurances. Specializes in Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and PTSD
(she/her)
New to Grow
Hello, and welcome. I'm Dr. Shaven Abney Smith, a licensed clinical social worker with a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degree and experience supporting individuals through a variety of life's challenges. I specialize in helping individuals navigate depression, trauma, anxiety, and life transitions using evidence-based approaches tailored to each person's unique needs, strengths, and experiences. My goal is to provide a supportive, collaborative, and nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard, respected, and empowered to develop practical coping strategies, build resilience, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. I look forward to partnering with you on your journey toward improved well-being.
During the first session, a comprehensive bio-psychosocial assessment is completed to better understand your current concerns, mental health history, medical history, family and social relationships, personal strengths, coping skills, and treatment goals. We will also review informed consent, confidentiality, and practice policies, answer any questions you may have, and work together to develop an initial treatment plan that reflects your unique needs, preferences, and goals for therapy. This session provides the foundation for building a collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship.
My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in evidence-based practices. I believe therapy is a partnership where we work together to identify your goals, build on your strengths, and develop practical tools to support meaningful and lasting change. I communicate in a clear and direct manner because I value transparency and believe in helping you get to the heart of what's going on, always with compassion, warmth, and sensitivity.
I am best positioned to serve adolescents, adults, and older adults who are seeking support for depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, grief, life transitions, relationship challenges, and difficulties adjusting to major life changes. I work well with individuals who are motivated to better understand themselves, develop healthier coping skills, improve emotional well-being, and build resilience. Whether you are experiencing a specific challenge or simply want to enhance your overall quality of life, I provide a collaborative, compassionate, and evidence-based approach tailored to your unique goals and needs.
I identify as
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we examine unhelpful thinking patterns that may contribute to emotional distress and replace them with more balanced, realistic perspectives. CBT also emphasizes developing practical coping strategies, problem-solving skills, and healthy behavioral changes that support long-term emotional well-being. My approach is collaborative, goal-oriented, and tailored to each client's unique experiences, helping them build confidence and resilience while making meaningful progress toward their personal goals.
Cognitive Processing (CPT)
I use Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to help clients process and recover from the effects of trauma. CPT focuses on identifying and challenging unhelpful beliefs that may have developed after traumatic experiences, such as feelings of guilt, shame, self-blame, or helplessness. Together, we work to develop more balanced and accurate perspectives, reduce trauma-related symptoms, and improve emotional well-being. My approach is structured, collaborative, and tailored to each client's pace, empowering individuals to regain a sense of safety, confidence, and control while moving toward meaningful healing and recovery.
Motivational Interviewing
I use Motivational Interviewing (MI) to help clients explore their thoughts and feelings about change in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment. Rather than telling clients what they should do, I work collaboratively to strengthen their own motivation, identify personal values and goals, and resolve any uncertainty about making changes. This client-centered approach helps individuals build confidence, enhance self-efficacy, and develop realistic, achievable steps toward positive and lasting change in areas that are most important to them.
Psychoeducation
I use psychoeducation to help clients better understand their mental health, emotions, behaviors, and the therapeutic process. By providing clear, evidence-based information about symptoms, diagnoses, coping strategies, and treatment options, clients are better equipped to make informed decisions about their care. I also teach practical skills for managing stress, improving emotional regulation, and building resilience. My goal is to empower clients with knowledge that increases self-awareness, reduces stigma, and supports meaningful, lasting progress both during and outside of therapy sessions.