LPC, 9 years of experience
Hello, I'm Dora Smith. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, in the state of Virginia and South Carolina. I am a former teacher who worked with the regular and special education environment. I received my Bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama and my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health from the University of the Cumberlands in Williamsburg, Kentucky. I work with individuals, couples, and adolescents to improve relationship concerns, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, post-partum, grief, life transitions, ADHD, PTSD, and addictions. I believe everyone can overcome their struggles with support and genuine effort. Life transitions can be awkward, uncomfortable, or distressing. At any age, you might find yourself unprepared for the big feelings that come with your new normal. My passion is in helping you navigate the twists and turns of life while maintaining your core identity. There are so many changes in life. Whether you’re a sandwich generation adult, caring for your kids and your parents at the same time, a new mother, or a young adult exploring life beyond childhood, I will guide you through the daily challenges of this current phase. As a former teacher, I’ve seen how the way we lay the groundwork for coping with new situations manifests into our adulthood. Each person is unique. I desire to help you improve YOUR life YOUR way. When we work together, you can expect for us to examine the way your thoughts, actions, and emotions influence one another to create an outcome. Then, we’ll tear each piece apart and make tweaks where necessary to reach your goals. My approach is warm and person-centered. When I notice progress within our work, I’m sure to shout it out for celebration!
During the first session, I will be gathering a lot of information from you to learn about what brings you to counseling as well as some of your history. After this information is gathered, you will help me create a treatment plan so that we both know exactly what goals we are working toward achieving.
I have experience in mental health within partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient care, the prison system, family sessions, couples, children and adolescents, individuals from age two to elderly, groups, and those with special needs. I am genuine and down to earth. Life happens, but I'm here to help.
I love working with young adults as they learn how to navigate the world independently. I also enjoy working with adults who need to improve their self-esteem or adjust to life’s transitions. It can be hard to process grief alone or learn how to cope with anxiety or depression. But you are not alone.
5 ratings with written reviews
June 9, 2025
The best!
June 4, 2025
Dora is articulate while being humorous (if appropriate) in her interpretation of what we discuss. When she explains something, it makes sense rather than me ping-ponging from one thought to the next. Grateful that she is my therapist!
May 8, 2025
I love talking to Dora. Therapy is so easy with her because she really understands me and can help me find the right ways to heal and cope with life.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to their emotional distress. Through structured sessions, we explore how thoughts influence feelings and behaviors, equipping clients with practical skills to reframe their thinking. By setting specific goals and practicing coping strategies, clients learn to manage their symptoms more effectively and develop healthier responses to life's challenges. This collaborative approach fosters greater self-awareness and empowers clients to make positive changes.
I integrate mindfulness-based therapy to help clients cultivate present-moment awareness and develop a non-judgmental attitude toward their thoughts and feelings. Through techniques such as guided meditation, breath awareness, and body scans, clients learn to observe their experiences without becoming overwhelmed by them. This practice fosters emotional regulation, reduces anxiety, and enhances self-compassion, allowing clients to respond to stressors more effectively. By incorporating mindfulness into our sessions, I support clients in building resilience and improving their overall well-being.
I use person-centered therapy to create a supportive and empathetic environment where clients feel safe to express themselves openly. By actively listening and providing unconditional positive regard, I help clients explore their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. This approach emphasizes the client's autonomy and innate ability to find solutions to their challenges. Together, we work to foster self-awareness and personal growth, empowering clients to tap into their own strengths and insights.