MENUAlyssa Smith, LICSW
Alyssa Smith’s Therapist Disclosure Statement <<< (Clickable)
Counseling provides an invaluable space for support and healing as we work towards overcoming barriers and enhancing our well-being. My approach to counseling is rooted in a holistic perspective, recognizing the interconnectedness of the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions in each individual’s life. The struggles we face are often multifaceted. Counseling can help us navigate these complexities, deepening our understanding of ourselves and life experiences, as we pursue our goals to live a more fulfilling life.
Providing a non-judgmental and supportive environment where clients feel secure sharing their concerns has always been a priority to me. I utilize evidence-based practices and personalize care to meet each client’s unique needs.
With over 10 years in the field, I have gained extensive experience using trauma-informed care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy(DBT), and Acceptance Commitment Therapy(ACT) techniques. I am also a trained EMDR therapist, certified in modalities for treating insomnia, and enjoy integrating therapeutic art, walk-and-talk therapy, and mindfulness practices into my work.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, exploring new areas or events, or engaging in creative outlets. Some of my favorite things to do are paddle boarding, camping, listening to live music, painting, lapidary work, and playing video or board games with friends. Though originally from Eastern Washington, visiting the Washington and Oregon coasts has always been a highlight on summer road trips, and I am thrilled to finally be living on this side of the state.
Specialties and areas of focus
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Sleep Issues
- Relationship Challenges
- Work or School Challenges
- Major life changes
- Trauma and PTSD
- ADHD Support
- Stress
- Self-Esteem
- Motivation
Q&A with Alyssa
1.) Some therapists are more comfortable addressing the immediate problem, while others want to focus on the deeper issue. Which are you?
I am comfortable with addressing both, and always work with clients to determine the best place to start.
2.) Do you tend to lead the session, or follow my lead?
I tend to lead more when beginning to work with a new client. After a few sessions, I lean towards whichever best fits the client’s needs.
3.) What are your strengths as a therapist?
The strengths I am most proud of are being non-judgmental, easy to talk to, and honoring the uniqueness of each client.
4.) If you had one superpower, what would it be and why?
A fun superpower to have would be to fly. I’d travel the world to explore as many places as I could, and to see loved ones more often.
5.) What makes you laugh?
Seeing other people laugh, or people being their genuine carefree silly selves.
6.) Who would you have dinner with, dead or alive?
My grandma who passed away before I met her. Growing up I was told kind things about her, and that I reminded people of her.
