Hi, I’m Katrina! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been practicing for over 10 years. I help people who are overwhelmed, stressed, struggling with relationships, or dealing with a life transition or change (experiencing loss, changing jobs, starting college, etc.). I have extensive experience working with adolescents and young adults, but happily work with clients of all ages. My counseling style is empathic and encouraging. I believe that in most situations, everyone does the best that they can with what they have – moments that don’t go well tell us where help is needed or what skills we can build to help next time. I began my experience working on a child/adolescent psychiatric unit and with children in a residential placement program. Since that time, I have spent the last 6 years working with military members and their families. I have worked with individuals and couples with a wide range of concerns, such as: depression, anxiety, work/school stress, relationship issues, grief and loss, career challenges, past and current trauma, and abuse.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

During our first session, you will be able to express your concerns and what you would like to gain from counseling. Together, we will develop a vision of what successful treatment looks like and I will partner with you to create a treatment plan to meet your specific needs. Throughout our sessions, I will be here to be a listening ear, to talk through the issues bothering you, and to collaborate with you to take action toward positive change.

What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?

Treatment will be developed based on your needs and goals. I will utilize several different methods based on what those are, which may include handouts, homework assignments or activities during sessions to learn and practice new skills. I utilize a solution-focused and cognitive-behavioral approach, as well as being client-centered and trauma-focused. I have experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Couples Counseling.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

I believe that my biggest strength is my ability to truly listen. My goal is that you feel heard and understood. I have extensive work with military members and their families, and as a military spouse myself, I have a unique and in-depth perspective on the challenges of military life from both the perspective of the servicemember and of the family member. I have also worked in depth with those who have experienced domestic violence and child abuse, helping them process their traumas, as well as build skills to maintain their safety in the future.

About Katrina Smith