Licensed to practice in Massachusetts and accepts 8 insurances. Specializes in Anxiety, Child or Adolescent, Depression and 3 more.
(she/her)
New to Grow
Hello, and welcome. I'm Kristen Smith, LICSW, and I believe that reaching out for support is one of the most courageous steps you can take. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, or simply feeling overwhelmed, my goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood. With over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults in a variety of settings, including hospitals, community mental health, crisis intervention, outpatient therapy, and telehealth. These experiences have allowed me to support individuals facing a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and life challenges while tailoring treatment to each person's unique needs and goals. My priority is building a trusting therapeutic relationship where you feel accepted, empowered, and supported throughout your journey. Healing isn't about being perfect—it's about making meaningful progress, one step at a time. I would be honored to be part of that journey with you.
During our first meeting, we'll spend time getting to know one another. I'll ask questions about what brought you to therapy, your current concerns, your personal history, and what you hope to gain from our work together. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions about my approach and determine whether we're a good fit. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, relationship concerns, or simply feeling overwhelmed, my goal is to help you feel heard, understood, and supported from the very first session. Building a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation of our work together, and I look forward to partnering with you on your journey toward healing and personal growth.
I believe that the foundation of effective therapy is a strong, trusting relationship. My greatest strength is my ability to create a warm, welcoming, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel safe to be themselves. I strive to meet each person with compassion, empathy, and genuine curiosity, recognizing that every individual's experiences and journey are unique.
My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults who are ready to better understand themselves and create meaningful, lasting change. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, or feeling overwhelmed by the demands of everyday life. Some may be seeking support during a difficult season, while others simply want a safe place to process their thoughts and emotions.
Other specialties
I identify as
Strength-Based
I believe that every person has unique strengths, even during life's most difficult moments. While it's natural to focus on problems or symptoms that bring you to therapy, I also believe it's just as important to recognize the resilience, abilities, and personal qualities that can help you move forward.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the evidence-based approaches I use to help clients better understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Our thoughts have a powerful influence on how we feel and respond to life's challenges, and sometimes unhelpful thinking patterns can keep us feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or discouraged. In our work together, we'll identify negative or unhelpful thought patterns, explore how they impact your emotions and daily life, and develop healthier, more balanced ways of thinking. We'll also focus on practical strategies that you can apply outside of our sessions to help manage anxiety, depression, stress, relationship challenges, and other life difficulties.