Harrison Smith
I’m a licensed mental health counselor who helps adults break free from anxiety, trauma, OCD, and self-critical thought patterns through evidence-based, compassionate therapy. My approach integrates CBT, DBT, ERP, and trauma-focused methods with the insight of psychoanalytic work to foster deep, lasting transformation. I provide a grounded, supportive space where clients can rebuild confidence, clarity, and self-trust, and reconnect with their authentic emotional strength.
First session
In our first session, we’ll slow down and get to know you—not just your symptoms, but your story. I’ll ask about what’s been most difficult lately, what you’ve already tried, and what you hope to gain from therapy. Together we’ll clarify your goals and start identifying the patterns keeping you stuck. My goal is to make you feel comfortable, understood, and safe while beginning to build a plan that feels collaborative, structured, and personalized to your needs.
Strengths
What sets my work apart is my ability to combine deep psychological insight with practical, results-driven methods. I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, trauma, and depression using ERP, DBT, and CBT while weaving in psychoanalytic and depth-oriented approaches that address the root causes of emotional distress. Clients often describe my style as direct yet empathetic—helping them feel both challenged and deeply supported. I bring warmth, curiosity, and a calm, grounded presence that helps clients feel safe exploring even their most painful experiences while building tangible tools for change.
Ideal clients
I work best with adults who are ready to understand themselves on a deeper level and create lasting change. Many of my clients are high-functioning professionals who struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, intrusive thoughts, or trauma histories that keep them feeling stuck despite their success. They want more than symptom relief—they want insight, clarity, and emotional transformation. Whether you’re navigating self-doubt, relationship challenges, identity issues, or patterns rooted in past pain, I help you reconnect with your authentic self and move toward a more integrated, empowered life.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients identify and challenge distorted thinking patterns that contribute to emotional distress. In my work, I guide clients to observe the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and to replace unhelpful cognitive habits with more balanced perspectives. CBT often serves as a foundation in my sessions, helping clients develop practical tools for managing anxiety, depression, and self-critical thought patterns while strengthening self-awareness and emotional regulation.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I integrate Dialectical Behavior Therapy when clients struggle with intense emotions, impulsivity, or relationship difficulties. I focus on DBT’s four core modules—mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness—to build balance between acceptance and change. In session, I help clients learn to validate their own experiences while developing concrete strategies to manage emotional overwhelm and communicate more effectively. My approach emphasizes applying DBT skills in real-life contexts, allowing clients to feel more centered and resilient.
Exposure Response Prevention (ERP)
I utilize Exposure and Response Prevention primarily with clients experiencing OCD or intrusive thoughts. Together, we identify triggers, gradually face feared situations, and reduce compulsive responses through guided exposure work. I ensure this process feels safe, structured, and empowering rather than overwhelming. ERP helps clients regain a sense of control over their thoughts and behaviors, decrease anxiety, and rewire fear responses through repeated, supported experiences of mastery.
Trauma-Focused CBT
I use Trauma-Focused CBT to help clients process and heal from traumatic experiences in a structured and compassionate way. This approach combines the practical tools of CBT—like identifying and reframing unhelpful thoughts—with evidence-based trauma interventions that promote safety, empowerment, and emotional regulation. I guide clients through gradual exposure to difficult memories at a pace that feels manageable, integrating mindfulness and grounding techniques throughout. My goal is to help clients reduce trauma-related distress, restore a sense of control, and rebuild trust in themselves and others.
Psychoanalytic
My background in psychoanalytic and depth psychology allows me to help clients uncover the unconscious patterns influencing their emotions, relationships, and life choices. Through open exploration, dream work, and attention to transference and symbolism, we work to understand the deeper roots of conflict and suffering. This approach supports lasting transformation by bringing unconscious material into awareness, fostering self-understanding, and integrating the hidden aspects of the psyche into conscious life.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
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Serves
Licensed in
- CaliforniaLicense 11941