New to Grow
“Hello and welcome! You’ve taken the first step towards finding your way through some of life’s challenges! I am Tonita Smith, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor based in North Carolina. I specialize in working with adults ages 18 and over who struggle with stress, anxiety, grief, life transitions and relationship issues. With years of experience, I am a nonjudgmental, empathetic listener. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I use modalities such as individualized, solution focused therapy, trust-based relational therapy, and some cognitive-behavioral techniques. I aim to help you develop a deeper awareness of yourself, as we explore challenges and, hopefully, develop practical strategies for growth and lasting change.”
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
“In our first session together, expect to be a bit nervous meeting me for the first time and not knowing if you will be comfortable talking with me. That’s perfectly normal at the beginning of our sessions. Hopefully, you will be more at ease by the closing of the session. Expect some brief introductions, information on confidentiality, and the therapeutic process. I will ask lots of questions that will help in better understanding you as a whole person. You will disclose some background information, that will set the grounds for us to build a trusting, therapeutic relationship, leading to your main reason for seeking therapy. You will share your current challenges and your goals for therapy. We will talk about developing a treatment plan and creating goals that best suit your current challenges.”
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
“One of my biggest strengths is meeting you where you are and praising you as you grow. Another strength is genuinely listening to my clients with a nonjudgmental heart. I believe that it’s important for you to know that what you are saying matters enough for me to listen. Another strength that I bring into our sessions is my ability to provide a welcoming space for you to disclose your inner thoughts.”
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
“The clients I’m best positioned to serve are adults ages 18 and over who struggle with stress, anxiety, grief, life transitions and relationship issues; clients who are seeking help with their current life challenges, in hopes of healing and growing into a better life. The first step takes courage and you’ve taken that step. I welcome the opportunity to work with you on your journey. Contact me today to schedule an appointment, to get started, and to grow!”
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
By using the Solution Focused Brief Treatment for the past several years, I am able to work with my clients on developing strategies to move past their current challenges or identifying solutions to their problems, instead of analyzing them.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
Whenever my clients have presenting issues that are culturally specific, I ask lots of questions about their culture and make sure my clients know that I am here to help them, even if our cultures are different.
Christian Counseling
Because of my Christian faith, I welcome clients who are seeking Christian Counseling, which is a lifestyle. This treatment method is utilized only if my clients specifically seek out Christian Counseling.
Grief Therapy
I use grief therapy not only when clients have experienced the loss of a loved one, but also when a close relationship has ended, or even the loss of a job.