As a mother of five, wife, and career educator, I have a wide range of experience from which to guide, advise, and assist clients in their personal pursuit of happiness and self-fulfillment. I take an integrative approach with clients as partners in their own care. A strong therapeutic relationship is at the core of my practice, with a healthy dose of cognitive behavioral therapy, a person-centered approach, and mindfulness training. Providing a space of warmth and compassion offers the safety clients need to confidently make changes. I believe that the right fit must be a significant consideration before moving forward with establishing a therapeutic relationship.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
I don't take the decision to begin therapy lightly. In the first session, I establish a safe and supportive space for clients to share their story, state their goals for therapy, and learn about ways I feel I can help them achieve desired outcomes. By addressing clients' understanding and/or concerns for the therapeutic process, I help the client ease into the process and find comfort in moving forward.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
As a career-change psychotherapist with over 20 years in independent school education, I have been serving the needs of children and helping individuals and families trade discord for harmony for decades. The desire to help on a deeper level drew me to the counseling profession. I credit my own personal therapy experience with changing the trajectory of my life. I encourage clients to be brave and boldly take this step toward controlling their destiny.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I have a special affinity for women’s issues, young adults establishing independence, empty nesters, and the challenges in life that disrupt relationships, families, and feelings of success. Women are achieving at rates that can often feel intimidating to the people with whom they work, learn, and love. Effective therapy can heal, help, and support the strength of a woman, and the people in her village. This work is achieved through a variety of settings and formats in hopes that one of them resonates with you.
About Dawn Smith
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use CBT to address negative thought processes that contribute to a cycle of negative behavior, emotions, and outcomes. Examining the client's belief system can lead to discoveries about self that lead to positive changes and a more fulfilling life.
Narrative
Clients often discover that they have bought into a negative life story that is impacting the way they think and experience life. Understanding and dismantling that story and rewriting the narrative can be helpful in self-discovery and living into their own values and goals.