Therapists in Tennessee

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience, and work with individuals, couples and families. My background includes extensive work in residential treatment settings, supporting individuals with both substance use disorders and a wide range of mental health concerns. For the past seven years, I have been in private practice, where I provide individualized, depth-oriented therapy. My clinical training includes EMDR, somatic-focused approaches, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I work from an attachment-based perspective and believe that healing occurs within the safety of a strong therapeutic relationship. Relationship, attunement, and emotional safety are foundational to my work, and coping skills and practical guidance are offered within the context of connection and collaboration.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I work with people who are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready for change. I believe therapy should feel like a safe, supportive conversation where you can be honest about what’s going on in your life. I enjoy helping people make sense of their thoughts and emotions while finding small, realistic steps that lead to real change.

Hi im Greg Kirkham! Im a licensed therapist, practicing for over 21 years. I specialize in treating trauma. Now, you may be saying “but I don’t have trauma!” Trauma comes in all shapes and sizes and is often not recognized as such, but almost always has a significant impact on someone’s overall mental, physical and emotional health. Trauma also presents in many different forms, including struggles with depression, anxiety and anger management. Over my career I have worked with an array of populations, including children/families, juvenile sex offenders, and even convicts. Currently, I serve those who served us as a therapist with the VA in middle TN. Over the past seven years, I’ve seen evidence-based treatments work wonders with PTSD and trauma in our veterans. With GrowTherapy, I’m now able to provide these and other treatments to YOU! Whether you’re not real sure or highly motivated to get help, I’d love to discuss options and see if we’re a good fit! Thanks for reading and congratulations on taking the first step towards a healthier and more fulfilling life!

Madison is a seasoned therapist with over 12 years of experience dedicated to empowering women and mothers through their mental health journeys. Madison creates a safe and supportive environment where her clients can explore their feelings and build resilience. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a foundational approach, Madison focuses on helping clients challenge negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping strategies. She is also Health at Every Size® (HAES) trained, promoting a holistic understanding of health that celebrates body diversity and encourages self-acceptance. Madison’s compassionate and client-centered approach has made her a trusted ally for many women navigating the complexities of motherhood, self-image, and mental health. She believes in the power of connection and is committed to helping her clients find their strength and voice in their healing journeys.

As a counselor, I bring over two decades of trauma-informed, emotionally intelligent, and spiritually grounded care to the people I serve. My approach blends evidence-based modalities with deep compassion, helping clients feel safe, seen, and supported as they navigate stress, pain, and life transitions. I guide clients in understanding their patterns, strengthening their inner resources, and developing practical tools for healing. The impact of our work together is often a renewed sense of clarity, resilience, and self-trust-empowering clients to move forward with greater emotional health and a stronger connection to themselves. It’s my honor to walk with my client through some of the darkest times in their lives. We will work together to find hope and healing!

Do you find yourself struggling with feeling heard or being able to be fully present in the moment? Each person deserves the space to be heard, a place where they can be their authentic self. I want to understand and help you work through any events or concerns that have caused you to seek out therapy. Whether you are struggling with feeling anxious, not wanting to get out of bed or do the things that you used to enjoy or have experienced a loss. Together we can identify what you need in order to live a more fulfilled life. Seeking therapy can be a scary move and many people often feel that they have lost themselves so give yourself credit for making the first step! I enter each session ready to provide you with empathy, my undivided attention, and that safe space so that you can overcome whatever challenges brought you here.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor – Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) with seven years of experience helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and work toward meaningful change. My background includes working with clients across a wide range of ages, from adolescents to older adults, which has given me a strong understanding of the unique needs and perspectives at different stages of life. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master of Science in Counseling, which provide the foundation for my work in mental health.

At the heart of my work is a core philosophy: no one knows you better than you. My role is to help you find clarity, awareness, reconnect with your own wisdom, and take steps toward meaningful, healing, and lasting change. My client-centered approach blends experiential, trauma-informed, neurological perspectives alongside philosophical wisdom traditions that honor natural flow, personal responsibility, compassionate awareness, and mindful presence. I believe therapy thrives when it’s collaborative and stigma-free. Each session is shaped to your needs, not a template. Alongside traditional counseling, I bring Ketamine-assisted therapy and Brainspotting into the session, offering meaningful tools for exploration and lasting change.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I specialize in helping individuals identify their strengths, set meaningful goals, and move forward with greater clarity and purpose. Since becoming licensed in 2004, I’ve worked with clients across a wide range of life stages and challenges, using a goal-oriented, strengths-based approach rooted in evidence-based practices. My clinical focus is on empowering clients to overcome barriers, build resilience, and make intentional changes that support long-term growth. Whether you’re navigating a life transition, managing stress, or feeling stuck, I provide a supportive and structured space where we can work collaboratively to identify what’s not working—and develop practical, sustainable strategies to help you thrive.

For over 20 years, I have worked with individuals and families facing unexpected life challenges that disrupted their sense of peace, security, and connection. I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, and relationship concerns. Many of my clients are seeking clarity about important decisions, healing from difficult experiences, improving communication, strengthening relationships, or becoming the healthiest version of themselves. Clients are the experts in their own lives. My approach integrates cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, strengths-based, and mindfulness-informed techniques to promote emotional healing, personal growth, and resilience. My role is to provide a supportive, collaborative environment where clients can gain insight, build on their strengths, and develop practical tools to overcome challenges. I meet clients where they are, offering compassion, encouragement, and accountability while helping them identify patterns that may be keeping them stuck. Through therapy, they have gained greater clarity, resilience, emotional regulation, and confidence, allowing them to create meaningful and lasting change. I strive to create a therapeutic space that is warm, welcoming, and empowering; an environment where clients feel safe to be authentic, vulnerable, and free from judgment. My goal is for clients to leave therapy feeling heard, valued, and better equipped to navigate life's challenges with confidence.

Hi there! Michelle is a licensed therapist who helps adults feel supported, understood, and better equipped to manage daily life. She works with clients who may be experiencing anxiety, stress, burnout, life changes, emotional ups and downs, or difficulty setting boundaries. Michelle’s style is warm, compassionate, direct, and supportive. She works with clients to help them better understand themselves, build coping skills, manage emotions, and take small, meaningful steps toward healthier patterns. Michelle may be a good fit for clients who are new to counseling and want a space where they can feel heard, supported, and guided as they work toward personal growth. Michelle holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling. She brings a strong, well-rounded clinical background shaped by years of experience serving adults, children, adolescents, military families, and diverse communities across multiple states. Her professional experience spans outpatient counseling, community-based mental health support, school-based services, in-home care, and mental health clinic settings. Through these varied roles, Michelle has developed a compassionate, adaptable, and client-centered approach to helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges, build resilience, and move toward meaningful growth. Michelle’s goal is to meet each client with compassion and understanding while encouraging meaningful accountability in the growth process. She helps clients identify what is within their control, strengthen emotional regulation, improve daily functioning, and build practical tools they can use outside of sessions to support lasting change.

I am passionate about developing safe, meaningful relationships to help you explore challenging belief systems that may be getting in the way of you becoming and feeling your best self. I have over 20 years of experience working with youth and adults. My passion is helping women through varying life transitions to become overcomers of their circumstances. Through a variety of therapeutic modalities, individualized to meet your needs, I can help you transform thought patterns that may be leading to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem or that may have resulted from trauma, grief and loss, etc. I enjoy helping women find a work/life balance as well as helping mothers looking to build stronger relationships with their children. I love building relationships with people; therefore through a strength-based and collaborative approach, we will work together to identify tools that will help improve your ability to communicate with others, strengthen relationships, and build skills.

I’m a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and I believe therapy works best when it feels safe, collaborative, and human. I bring empathy, a sense of humor, and a strong focus on building a genuine therapeutic connection. I also believe you should set the pace for counseling — this is your space, and we move in a way that feels right for you.

Hello, I am so glad you are reaching out. It takes courage to ask for help and I know that is not always easy and I am proud of you for taking the first step! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 22 years of counseling experience. I am here to support you on your journey towards mental health and well-being. I provide a safe and compassionate space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My clients often struggle with the "unknowns" of life and I like to help people feel more comfortable with the unknown and to trust the process of life.

I’m Johanna. I work with creative people, and with those who are working to heal, transition, and evolve from things that have hurt them. My approach blends traditional talk therapy with deeper work. With the use of Brainspotting and Jungian interventions, because real change rarely happens at the surface, we create deep meaningful change. When we're willing to go underneath, to the place where the old story lives, we can heal it and create room to become something new.

I’m a licensed psychologist (PhD) specializing in autism, ADHD, and complex patterns in both children and adults. I work with thoughtful individuals and parents who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or like something isn’t fully adding up—especially when traditional approaches haven’t helped. My approach is warm, direct, and insight-driven. I don’t just listen—I help you understand patterns, make sense of what’s going on, and figure out what actually works for your brain (or your child’s). I’m neurodiversity-affirming and experienced in differentiating anxiety, burnout, ADHD, and sensory or social overwhelm. With parents, I focus on helping you understand your child more clearly and respond in ways that actually work—so things feel more manageable at home. Sessions are collaborative, practical, and focused on meaningful change.

I have worked in counseling in TN for many years, and held my license since 2001. I am a native of Nashville. I love the outdoors, competitive sports, volunteering, all of the nature in our state, music, family, and building faith in life. I want each person I see to find hope, to feel encouraged/supported, and to realize that there is growth and solutions after each battle. Anyone brave enough to seek support, deserves to know that taking that first step...is the hardest part. I want to help as a teammate. I like to find strengths/solutions/coping strategies.

Hello! I am an LPC-MHSP in the state of TN. I am also fully licensed in both MS and CO. I have over 13+ years experience in the Mental Health field working within a variety of settings. I’ve always been deeply passionate about seeing others thrive and succeed. As my life experiences unfolded, that passion only grew stronger, shaping my desire to serve others and support them in building resilience through life's toughest challenges. I've also long been fascinated by the "why" behind human behavior, which led me to combine these two passions into a life of service-helping others step into and operate at their highest potential.

I have been independently licensed since 2016. I have worked in many areas of social work so my knowledge in the field is very diverse. I have worked out patient, hospital and in patient. I am trained in EMDR and can provide CBT and psycho therapy. I offer therapy that focuses on what you need to live your life to its fullest. I can treat trauma, anxiety, depression and many other diagnoses that clients struggle with. I hope to be able to help you. I try very hard to make my sessions tailored to what you as a client need. I am very person centered and i want to make this experience as therapeutic as I can.

Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am Licensed in the State of Tennessee and North Carolina. I have been practicing as a counselor for the past 4 years however I have been providing counseling services as a Military Chaplain for 20 years and have retired from the Military after over 30 years of service. I see individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life going through many difficult situations. I have walked with them through times of grief, anxiety, loss, separation, suicidal thoughts, etc. I have seen how choosing the right therapist can help a person get through, from the person's perspective, some of life’s hardest times.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with an MHSP designation, bringing 8 years of experience supporting teens, adults, and couples facing challenges related to grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and cultural issues. My approach involves helping clients identify obstacles to achieving their optimal selves, fostering a healthy mental health lifestyle. I work collaboratively with clients to understand and manage life difficulties, equipping them with the skills to thrive in various circumstances. My primary focus is on utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to support clients on their journey towards growth and healing.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Tennessee. I received my Masters from Freed-Hardeman University and have been practicing for 10 years. I enjoy helping children and adults struggling with life difficulties, whatever they may be. I am a Christian therapist. My expertise is with those struggling with depression, self-esteem issues, anxiety, relationship issues, and life transitions. I assist clients with finding the light in their lives.

Hello! I'm Rebecca. In my more than 10 years as a counselor, I have been humbled by the experiences of my clients. Choosing to seek counseling is hard. It means being vulnerable with a stranger to say, "I need help," and, "I can't fix this by myself." I would like to guide you on your journey to healing. I help my clients through the difficult and emotional process of healing relationships and overcoming the challenges of life in all its stages.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing in a variety of settings for 20 years. I enjoy working with clients and families to build upon skills and resilience that will serve them in their treatment journey. I have extensive experience treating trauma, mood disorders, self harm / suicidal thinking, anxiety and addiction. I believe clients can and should thrive in the therapeutic experience.

A Big Hello to you. You are scanning all these profiles. Looking for something to stand out to make you say,"I will go with this one." It is daunting but you have made it this far. Here is the tip. Your choice is not terminal. It is absolutely ok to try multiple therapists to see who gets you the best. Who understands you the best. After each session, you should feel lighter. You may not recall all that was said, but you will note how you feel. Did you feel heard? Understood? Did the therapist talk to me like they were reading a book or did it sound like they really got me? When you get the right one, those questions will be answered with a firm, Yes. ---->Part of individual therapy is talking about friends, partners and loved ones. My training and focus are centered only on heterosexual relationship dynamics. If you are looking for letters for work, ESA, Social Security, FMLA, Family Court, you will need a psychological evaluation by a forensic psychologist. I am not able to perform assessments, letters for claims or provide appearances in court.

Hi, I’m Holly! If life feels heavier than it should right now, you don't have to carry it alone. For the last twelve years, I've walked alongside adults, adolescents, and individuals of all genders and identities as they work through some of life's hardest challenges. I believe you already have strengths within you that we can build on together. You deserve a therapist who meets you exactly where you are, without judgment. My goal is to help you navigate the challenges life has handed you by drawing on the unique strengths you already carry. Whether you're navigating substance use, the weight of adolescence, a major life transition, or a season of life that feels stuck, my hope is to create a safe space where you can speak openly, feel understood, and move toward a healthier way forward. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in Arizona, Tennessee, and South Dakota. I welcome individuals of all genders and identities, including LGBTQ+ and nonbinary clients, and strive to create a compassionate, inclusive space where you can be yourself. To learn more about me, my approach, and my practice, visit www.hollybutlercounseling.com

I believe in the importance of treating the whole person: body, mind, spirit. My approach is empowering you to make your own decisions, to help you set your own goals and to walk with you on your journey to health. I specialize in women's issues: self image, hormonal changes, sexual issues including desire issues, pain and trauma. Other issues addressed both male and female: relationships, anxiety, depression, grief & loss. I want to partner with you on your journey to mental health and wellness.

Hello. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Tennessee. I received my Masters degree from Union University in West Tennessee. I have completed my doctoral degree in behavioral health from Freed Hardeman University. My training as a social worker as well as my advanced degree in behavioral health gives me broad scope of skills to meet patient’s needs. My career path has allowed for me to treat lifespan of patients as well as a broad scope of patient demographics.

Hi. My name is Deborah Vaughn and I have dedicated my life to making your life better. I have laughed and I have loved. I have cried and I have lost. I have experienced anxiety and depression, poverty and wealth. I have had beauty and acceptance, age and neglect. I have given birth to four children, two that were incarcerated for crimes, and I have had them brought back to me renewed again in life. I've been sad and lonely and I have been on top of the mountain singing praises to the God of the Universe. Experiences, I've had too many to number, both good and bad, and I have learned from each and every one. Empathy I have for all, because I too have probably been there, or I could have been there easily enough. I have saved them all in my mind and heart so that I can help you through any of them you might need my help with. Sincerely, Deborah

Hello and welcome. I am an LCSW who has 28 years of experience providing therapy to a wide array of clients. I enjoy meeting clients where they are at and helping them to discuss their issues, look at obstacles to making changes, make expectations that are more realistic, and helping them to learn new skills to decrease the negative effects on their life.

I've been in the mental health field for around 17 years, licensed in the last 6, and have worked with a variety of clients. I've worked with parents who are struggling with behavioral issues with their children, adults struggling with chronic illness, older adults dealing with aging, and adults in general who are experiencing life transitions that are proving to be difficult to manage. I work to help clients find helpful ways of coping, while also addressing the core of the issues that they are dealing with.

Hello, my name is Kimberly Allen and I wanted to take a moment to share a bit about the support I provide. My background includes offering brief therapeutic counseling, clinical and consultation services. I have extensive experience developing, implementing, and evaluating behavioral and mental health services. This includes conducting assessments, providing individual follow-up, creating treatment plans, facilitating psycho educational interventions, and leading group therapy. I also coordinate one-on-one services such as person-centered planning, financial counseling, and mental health support. In addition, I develop and manage comprehensive case management services, evaluate clients’ ability to cope with daily living challenges, and support individuals with complex social needs by creating personalized social care plans. My goal is to meet you where you are, understand your unique needs, and work collaboratively toward improving your overall well-being. I look forward to working together.

Hi ~ I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri and Tennessee; I have been licensed for 15+ years. My focus is to help people learn how to manage anxiety and depression so as to live a more fulfilling life. I will provide resources, teach skills, and provide encouragement to help make changes. We will collaborate to make a plan for long term success.

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider in the state of Tennessee. I received my Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. I help adolescents and adults through some of life's most challenging circumstances and give them the space they need to process such events and experiences. I want to assist you through your past and current adversities.

I am a master’s level therapist independently licensed in Ohio LPCC (S) and Tennessee LPC-MHSP (AS), and an approved supervisor in both states. I offer flexible supervision availability and have extensive experience working with individuals and couples across a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and the unique needs of first responders and military personnel. I provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each client’s current needs and offer teletherapy with flexible scheduling options—weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. I aim to make the therapy process as comfortable and accessible. I specialize in anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I have also worked with first responders, veterans, and correctional workers. I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Clinical Trauma Counseling. I want to meet you right where you are and help you get to where you want to be. I know this process can be difficult so whatever I can do to make it just a little easier is what I will do. Let's see if we can get there together.

Hello, my name is Shamicka Cannon, LCSW, and I am passionate about walking alongside individuals and families as they navigate life’s challenges. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you feel seen, heard, and empowered to create meaningful change. I believe healing and growth happen when we learn to understand ourselves, challenge unhelpful patterns, and embrace healthier ways of living. I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing challenges such as: Anxiety, depression, and trauma Behavioral difficulties and emotional regulation struggles in children and teens Life transitions, stress, and relationship challenges Grief, loss, and unresolved pain from the past Individuals seeking personal growth, healing, and stronger coping skills Whether it’s a young person learning to manage emotions, an adult working through stress and trauma, or a family striving for stronger communication, I tailor my approach to meet each client where they are. Through our work together, my clients gain: Clarity and self-awareness about their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors Practical tools and coping strategies to manage stress, anxiety, and difficult emotions Healing and resilience in the face of past trauma or current challenges Improved relationships through healthier communication and boundaries Confidence and empowerment to live in alignment with their values and goals Ultimately, my mission is to help clients feel more in control of their lives, more hopeful about their future, and more connected to themselves and others.

As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Supervisor with over two decades of experience, I maintain a humble approach when encountering novel, unfamiliar, or unpredictable situations. This humility stems from the understanding that my purpose is to serve and share knowledge and expertise. My life mission is to make a positive impact on individuals’ lives and the community through advocacy and empowerment.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Tennessee. I received my Masters from the Howard University and have been practicing for 5 years. My focus is on helping clients manage stress, anxiety, and identity development while encouraging them to live authentically and in alignment with their core values. Through our work together, I aim to create a safe and empowering space for personal growth and resilience.

Hello I am Dr. Mboge, an LCSW over 15 years of clinical experience across residential treatment, school social work, PHP and IOP programs, crisis services, acute psychiatric care, addiction, and recovery work. I have supported children, adolescents, young adults, and adults throughout my career. My therapeutic approach centers on creating a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore their experiences and work toward meaningful change at their own pace. I help individuals navigate a wide range of emotional and mental health needs, including anxiety, depression, grief, anger, emotional regulation challenges, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and substance‑related concerns.

Hi, I’m Natasha, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping adolescents, adults, older adults, individuals, and couples navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and confidence. I provide a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients can explore anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, grief, and life transitions. My approach is collaborative, practical, and tailored to each client’s unique needs, helping them build insight, strengthen coping skills, and create meaningful change.

Amanda is a licensed professional counselor and a mental health service provider in the states of Tennessee and Alabama. She is also a Nationally Certified Counselor and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Amanda is a graduate of Middle Tennessee State University where she earned dual bachelor’s degrees in psychology and sociology, followed by a Master’s degree in Professional Counseling. She has extensive experience in various mental health and substance abuse treatment settings, including inpatient psychiatric settings and community mental health programs. Amanda focuses on creating a safe space where individuals, couples, and families can feel safe, heard, and validated. She utilizes a person-centered approach while working collaboratively to build goals for treatment. She uses a variety of therapeutic modalities when working with her clients, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Amanda may also utilize skill development and psychoeducation as needed. In her free time, Amanda loves reading, cooking, spending time with animals (especially her four dogs: three Boston Terriers; Winston, Hazel, and Louise; and one Miniature Schnauzer; Archie), going on new adventures, and bringing joy wherever she can.

I’m Dr. Alexandra Thompson-Norman, DBH, LCSW, a Licensed Psychotherapist dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and confidence. I work with clients facing a wide range of experiences, including life transitions, relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, and stress, providing guidance and support every step of the way. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each person’s unique needs, creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for reflection, growth, and healing. I believe therapy is not just about addressing challenges, it’s about empowering you to reconnect with your authentic self, build emotional resilience, and create meaningful, lasting change. Together, we explore practical strategies and deeper insights that help you understand yourself, strengthen your relationships, and navigate life with purpose and confidence. My goal is to help clients feel seen, heard, and supported so they can move forward with clarity, balance, and a renewed sense of hope.

I'm a licensed clinical social worker with over twenty years of experience in this field. I understand how complicated life can get, so let's figure out how to navigate yours together. I help clients face some of life's biggest challenges. My goal is to always provide a safe space for you to feel seen and heard.

I’m someone who understands how overwhelming it can feel to be caught in life’s in-between space, whether it’s the end of a relationship, the shift in a friendship, or the uncertainty of what comes after graduation. I work with adults who are often relied upon by others but sometimes struggle to support themselves. As a therapist and thought partner, I bring warmth, honesty, and curiosity into our work. I believe therapy is a place where you can take off the mask, slow down, and reconnect with who you are outside of expectations and pressure. My role is to walk alongside you as you process the past, make sense of where you are now, and move forward with greater clarity and confidence.

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I am currently licensed in Tennessee and in Arkansas. I graduated from the University of Tennessee Knoxville in 2006. I have been in the mental health field for over 20 years. I have been an LCSW for the past 10 years. I have experience in treating trauma, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression. Currently, I also work at the Memphis VA Hospital in the ER as a mental health assessor.

My name is James Smith. I am a graduate of Florida State University College of Social Work. I lived in FL nearly all of my life, until in 2024 I had a chance to live closer to family in TN. My primary practice has been in the medical field, especially working with seniors with dementia and hospice. I currently work with dialysis patients. I am currently licensed in FL and TN and open for new patients. I believe that most individuals needing therapy already have the answers that they seek and need a trusted individual to listen to their concerns. When problems arise, I help you to navigate through your ideas, provide feedback and help you find success. I enjoy spending time with my family, training for and completing triathlons and working for better handwriting tools for lefties.

Greetings, and welcome to the beginning of a new chapter in your life! I am an enthusiastic and motivated therapist dedicated to meeting individuals where they are, while guiding them through their personal journey of growth and healing. My professional experience aligns with empowering clients who experience a sense of loss, anxiety, depression, physical, mental and emotional exhaustion, unexplained fear, and hopelessness. With a deep passion for both my client's progress and my own professional development, I create a collaborative, supportive space where lasting change is possible. I believe our greatest gifts often live at the intersection of growth and giving, and I look forward to walking alongside individuals as they rediscover their strengths, gain clarity, and create meaningful change.

Welcome! I'm in recovery from alcohol use disorder, and I'm a combat veteran. Learning to cope wasn't optional for me; it was survival, and that experience shapes how I show up for you now. I understand anxiety and depression from the inside, and I bring a grounded, no-judgment approach to every session. Whether you're facing a major life transition or seeking to learn coping skills, I'm here to walk with you through the process. Healing isn't linear, and I don't expect it to be. Together we'll build coping skills you can actually use in the moment, whether that's through journaling, mindfulness, cognitive exercises, or simply learning to catch the thoughts that used to run the show. Together, we can identify negative thinking and reshape it in a way that changes how you feel. I can help you challenge negative thoughts and identify more helpful/realistic thoughts. This will help you better enjoy your life because you will view it more positively. You deserve a life that brings you contentment and joy. Let's work together on this journey of healing.

My approach combines practical insight with reflective conversation to help you better understand yourself and develop healthier ways of responding to life’s challenges. I specialize in identifying and understanding traumatic experiences, relationship conflict, and increasing self-esteem. My approach is particularly attuned to supporting individuals and couples seeking authentic conversation in a safe space. I understand the profound impact of isolation, shame, and life purpose struggles, and I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where healing and personal growth can flourish. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients process difficult experiences, rebuild connections, and develop resilience. Whether you're dealing with mood disorders, relationship conflicts, or seeking guidance through significant life changes, I offer a thoughtful, understanding approach that honors your unique journey.

Basically, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have a background of working with individuals but due to my family therapy training I do want to know your family situation and ways that work and don't work for you. I have been working with Medicare clients and SPMI (Severe and Persistent Mental Illness). Many time I have found that clients who usually manage their lives well can sometimes feel overwhelmed by changes that occur in their lives. I truly want to locate and focus on strengths, but want to be supportive of areas where support is needed. Life can be difficult and learning coping skills can help us navigate both the highs and lows that life brings us. If needed, I guide individual to explore and analysis their past. I am friendly and positive. I want to help you feel better. If there are traumas, I will listen. 🛷