Cathy Smith , LPC

Cathy Smith brings a long history of hands-on work with young people and a layered academic background to her counseling practice. She began with undergraduate studies in sociology with a focus on criminology and in Spanish, then moved into direct care at a residential treatment home for youth with emotional and mental health challenges. That early experience shaped her interest in psychology and counseling and led her to pursue further education.

After starting a family, she returned to school to earn a teaching certificate and a master’s degree in special education, spending many years teaching in institutional, public, private, and alternative education settings. Over time she found herself wanting more space to listen and talk with students, which motivated her to complete a second master’s in counseling psychology. She earned licensure as a Limited License Psychologist and as a Licensed Professional Counselor - LPC, the latter meaning she is credentialed to provide professional counseling services.

Cathy uses a range of therapeutic tools chosen to fit each person’s goals, including motivational interviewing, client-centered methods, solution-focused strategies, psychoeducation, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral techniques. She favors a strength-based approach that builds on each person’s existing resources and works with clients across the lifespan, tailoring support to help them address issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, trauma, abuse, parenting challenges, learning differences, and autism spectrum concerns.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Support

Cathy Smith frequently blends client-centered therapy with cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques to meet each person where they are. Client-centered therapy focuses on listening with empathy and creating a supportive environment so clients can explore their values and choices; it is helpful for building trust and improving relationships. Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, helps people identify unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns and develop practical skills to manage symptoms like anxiety and depression. Mindfulness therapy teaches attention and awareness practices that can reduce reactivity and improve emotional regulation.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Cathy will work with each client to understand their goals, preferences, and day-to-day needs, and she adjusts methods over time so therapy stays relevant and effective for that person.

Online therapy offers flexible ways to connect with licensed professionals, including video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. These options make it easier to fit appointments into busy schedules, continue care during life transitions, and maintain consistent contact between sessions. For many clients, remote sessions provide a practical, accessible way to get steady therapeutic support while working toward their goals.