Kathy Smith, LCSW, LICSW

Kathy Smith is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with LCSW and LICSW credentials and 40 years of experience. She supports people dealing with stress, anxiety, grief, depression, and major life changes. Her approach is calm and respectful, aimed at helping people take practical steps forward.

Kathy believes most people are trying their best with the tools they have. She focuses on building a working plan that fits each person's situation. Conversations are tailored to whatever feels most helpful - sometimes practical skill-building, sometimes time to process loss.

Her work often addresses compassion fatigue, caregiver stress, and chronic illness or pain. Kathy also helps people who feel isolated, stuck in family patterns, or unsure about life purpose. She listens for what is getting in the way and helps set short-term goals to make daily life more manageable.

Kathy uses a mix of approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, and client-centered conversation. She uses motivational techniques when people want concrete momentum toward a change.

Her style is straightforward and kind. She encourages small experiments and realistic steps rather than big, risky shifts. If you are nervous about starting, she acknowledges that courage and offers to work at a pace that feels doable.

How Kathy's approaches translate to online work

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people notice their thoughts and values and then take small, value-driven steps. It is useful for anxiety, life transitions, and situations that feel overwhelming. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying unhelpful thinking patterns and trying different behaviors to change mood and function. It is often used for depression and worry. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes listening and meeting people where they are, which helps when someone needs a calm space to process grief or stress.

Finding the right approach is part of the work together. Kathy will discuss goals, try techniques, and adjust methods based on what feels most helpful. The process is collaborative - clients’ preferences and practical needs guide which methods are used.

Session formats are not specified in the biography, so confirm current options before booking. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy week, reduce travel time, and allow check-ins during shorter breaks. It also makes it simpler to continue care when health or caregiving duties limit in-person visits. Ask about available formats when you schedule so sessions match your routine and comfort.