Laila Smith
I am a dedicated Behavioral Health Specialist and School Counselor with a strong foundation in supporting individuals and families navigating life’s challenges. My work is rooted in a deep commitment to serving diverse and underserved communities, particularly in urban settings, where I help clients address issues related to stress, trauma, life transitions, and emotional well-being. I work with adolescents, adults, and families, using a compassionate, strengths-based approach that integrates evidence-based practices such as Adlerian Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, empowered, and equipped with practical tools to make meaningful changes. Through our work together, clients can expect to build resilience, develop healthier coping strategies, and gain clarity in their personal and emotional lives. I strive to help each person move toward healing, growth, and a more balanced, fulfilling future.
First session
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and it’s completely normal to feel a mix of emotions before your first session. When we meet through Grow Therapy, the first session is designed to be a comfortable, welcoming space where you can begin to share your story at your own pace. During our initial session, we’ll spend time getting to know each other. I’ll ask some questions about what brings you to therapy, your current concerns, and any goals you may have. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions, learn about my approach, and decide if I’m a good fit for your needs. There’s no pressure to share everything at once—we’ll go at a pace that feels right for you. As a newer counselor, I bring a fresh, attentive, and client-centered approach, grounded in evidence-based practices. I am intentional about creating a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard and respected. If appropriate, I may begin introducing simple coping strategies or tools, but the main focus of the first session is building trust and understanding your needs. By the end of our session, we’ll begin to outline next steps, including potential goals and how we can work together moving forward. My priority is that you leave feeling a sense of relief, clarity, and reassurance that you’ve taken an important first step toward your well-being.
Strengths
What stands out most about my therapeutic approach is the way I naturally integrate compassion, structure, and purpose. I don’t just apply techniques—I connect them to the real-life experiences of my clients, particularly those navigating systemic challenges in urban communities. My work reflects a strong commitment to equity, cultural awareness, and meeting clients where they are without judgment. My use of evidence-based approaches like Adlerian Therapy, DBT, and ACT is grounded in a strengths-based perspective. I help clients understand how their past experiences shape their current behaviors while also empowering them to make intentional, values-driven changes. I am especially skilled at breaking down practical coping strategies in a way that feels accessible and realistic, which helps clients build confidence and momentum early in the process. What makes me unique is my dual experience as a Behavioral Health Specialist and former School Counselor. This gives me a well-rounded understanding of individuals across the lifespan, especially adolescents and families, while also allowing me to see how mental health intersects with education, environment, and community systems. My background in working with trauma, crisis situations, and vulnerable populations means I bring both empathy and calm, steady guidance—even in complex situations. The impact I have is in helping clients feel seen, understood, and capable of change. I don’t just focus on symptom relief—I help people build resilience, develop insight, and create meaningful, lasting improvements in their lives.
Ideal clients
I work best with adolescents and young adults navigating life transitions, emotional challenges, and trauma. I also support adults and older adults facing changes related to aging, grief, and daily functioning. My approach focuses on building insight, strengthening coping skills, and helping clients feel more confident and empowered in their everyday lives. I also support adults and older adults who are experiencing transitions related to aging, loss, or changes in independence. While this is a newer area of your work, you bring strong skills in helping clients improve daily functioning, build structure, and navigate complex systems of care. Across all age groups, I connect well with clients who may feel overlooked, misunderstood, or unsure how to move forward. My approach combines compassion, practical support, and skill-building to help clients gain insight, strengthen coping strategies, and feel more empowered in their lives.
Treatment methods
Adlerian
“I incorporate Adlerian-informed techniques such as encouragement, exploration of early experiences, and a focus on belonging and purpose.”
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
“My approach integrates DBT-informed interventions, including skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, to support clients in achieving greater stability and resilience.”
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
“I draw from ACT principles to help clients navigate life’s challenges, build acceptance, and take purposeful action toward the life they want to live.”
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Doesn't specialize in
Licensed in
- OhioLicense E.2606444