Denise Smith
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with various mental health and substance abuse issues, in various clinical settings. I have a very informal, down-to-earth, and at times unconventional approach to therapy. I use not only the traditional therapeutic approaches, but also EMDR, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Attachment-based modalities, and Trauma-Informed care. I have developed mental health and substance abuse programs/curricula for high-risk youth and Native American youth.
I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can unpack their experiences without feeling rushed or dismissed. However, I can also be direct, blunt, non-nonsense, compassionate and empathetic during times when it is needed.
First session
During our first session, my priority is getting to know you and creating a space where you feel comfortable, heard, and supported. We’ll spend time discussing what brought you to therapy, your personal history, current challenges, strengths, and what you hope to achieve through counseling. I will conduct a more formal clinical interview/assessment to gather information to help us move forward in your healing process. This session is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and determine whether we’re a good fit. Together, we’ll begin identifying your goals and develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your needs. There is no pressure to share everything at once, we’ll move at a pace that feels comfortable for you. My goal is to provide a compassionate, judgment-free environment where you can feel safe exploring your thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
Strengths
I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can unpack their experiences without feeling rushed or dismissed. My approach is client-centered, collaborative, culturally sensitive, and growth-focused. I will tailor each session to your unique needs and goals. I also assist parents in strengthening family relationships and parenting skills. I am down-to-earth and genuine; basically, what you see is what you get. I like infusing humor when possible and when it is appropriate. However, I can also be direct, blunt, no-nonsense, compassionate, and empathetic at times when it is needed. Together, we will explore the root causes of your current challenges/stressors, come up with realistic goals, and a plan to move forward on your healing journey. We will discuss barriers to reaching your goals and create a plan on how to best manage them.
Ideal clients
I provided treatment to a wide variety of clients including children, adolescents and adults with a wide variety of mental health issues including, but not limited to trauma/abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. "An ideal behavioral health client is actively engaged, open to collaborative goal-setting, and ready to examine their patterns with curiosity rather than self-judgment." But I don't expect anyone to be a perfect or ideal client. I will be there every step of the way on your healing journey, with kindness, compassion and a little humor infused here and there. You don’t have to have everything figured out before starting therapy. My goal is to meet you where you are, help you feel supported and understood, and work collaboratively with you toward your personal goals. Together, we can identify what is holding you back, recognize the strengths you already have, and help you move forward with greater confidence and resilience.
Treatment methods
EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an effective and evidence-based therapy primarily used to treat trauma and other related conditions. EMDR is a therapy that helps your brain finish processing experiences that got stuck, so they stop affecting you the way they have been. It mimics what your brain naturally does during REM (dream) sleep, using side-to-side eye movements or taps to help your nervous system digest a heavy memory. EMDR has been shown to be effective for a variety of conditions, including: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety and panic attacks, Depression, Phobias, Grief and loss, Stress-related issues, Addictions and Chronic pain.
Attachment-based
We explore how your early childhood bonds with primary caregivers shape your current emotional responses, beliefs about yourself, and patterns in relationships.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients better understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we’ll identify unhelpful thought patterns, develop healthier ways of coping, and build practical skills you can use in everyday life. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and tailored to your unique goals, helping you create meaningful and lasting changes at a pace that feels right for you.
Trauma-Informed Care
I provide trauma-informed care by creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and respected. I recognize that past experiences can shape how we think, feel, and respond to life’s challenges, and I tailor therapy to meet your unique needs and comfort level. Together, we’ll move at a pace that feels right for you, focusing on building trust, developing healthy coping skills, and supporting your healing journey.
Location
Virtual sessions
In-person sessions3531 Columbia Ave, Corning, CA 96021