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Counseling and Psychotherapy for Adults

When people come to counseling, it is because they want something to be different in their lives. They may want to solve a particular problem, improve their relationships, know themselves better, or enhance their sense of well-being.

My clientele reflects the diversity of our city.They come from different racial and ethnic backgrounds. They self-identify as straight, gay, lesbian, queer, or are questioning their sexual orientation. They are single, in committed relationships, or have families with children. My clients' meaning-making is often informed by diverse spiritual traditions or philosophical values and I often assist them to explore their significance during stressful times. Each journey is unique and I strive to be a supportive companion.

I specialize in individual counseling and psychotherapy for adults (ages 18+). My approach to counseling is informed by existential and humanistic models that emphasize depth in personal life and relationships. I also incorporate strategies from acceptance and commitment therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction to assist individuals to improve their coping skills and enhance their sense of well-being.

I offer psychological services in English and/or Spanish.

Specialty areas:
  • Depression
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Grief and loss
  • Interpersonal difficulties
  • Stress management
  • Life transitions (e.g., starting / transferring college, new baby, divorce)
  • Crises of meaning (e.g., conflicts with values or spiritual beliefs, lack of direction or meaning)
  • Diversity (e.g., acculturation stress, oppression / prejudice, LGBTQI issues)
  • Personal growth and wellness
  • Career planning and development

Note:
(1) While I may meet with spouses/partners and other family members as part of an individual's counseling process, I do not provide couple's or family counseling. If needed, I will provide a referral for a marriage and family therapist. (2) I often provide referrals for another specialist when substance use disorders are contributing to significant impairment.
We each have in our hearts a wellspring
from which waters of life want to flow
so that we may come alive
in every cell of our being
with new life, with presence, joy,
courage, beauty, genuineness
and, in our fruition, being of service to others;
to life itself.
- C. Michael Smith, PhD