Kelly Smith, LCSW
Experienced LCSW for trauma and relationships
- Over twenty-five years experience
- Warm interactive approach
- Trauma and relationship expertise
About Kelly Smith
Kelly Smith is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in New York who has worked as a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor for over twenty-five years. They have supported people facing a wide range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, parenting concerns, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, ADHD, and LGBTQ+ related issues, and have guided many individuals through recovery after traumatic experiences.
Kelly brings a warm, interactive, and engaging presence to therapy, prioritizing validation and treating each person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Their practice blends several therapeutic traditions - cognitive-behavioral strategies for identifying and shifting unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, humanistic approaches that emphasize empathy and personal growth, psychodynamic perspectives that explore patterns shaped by past experience, and family systems work that considers relational dynamics.
Sessions are shaped around each person’s unique needs, with dialogue and the therapeutic partnership tailored to meet specific goals. Kelly values the courage it takes to begin therapy and aims to support clients as they move toward a more fulfilling and satisfying life. They are available to accompany clients through the process of change and empowerment, and look forward to working with those who are ready to take that step.
Kelly brings a warm, interactive, and engaging presence to therapy, prioritizing validation and treating each person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Their practice blends several therapeutic traditions - cognitive-behavioral strategies for identifying and shifting unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, humanistic approaches that emphasize empathy and personal growth, psychodynamic perspectives that explore patterns shaped by past experience, and family systems work that considers relational dynamics.
Sessions are shaped around each person’s unique needs, with dialogue and the therapeutic partnership tailored to meet specific goals. Kelly values the courage it takes to begin therapy and aims to support clients as they move toward a more fulfilling and satisfying life. They are available to accompany clients through the process of change and empowerment, and look forward to working with those who are ready to take that step.
Areas of Expertise
Primary Focus
Also Specializes In
AddictionsFamily conflictsGriefIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderCoping with life changesCompassion fatigueADHD
Additional Focus Areas
AbandonmentAdoption and foster careAging and geriatric issuesAntisocial personalityAttachment issuesAvoidant personalityBDSM, kink, and alternative sex cultureBlended family issuesBody imageCo-morbidityCodependencyCommitment issuesCommunication problemsControl issuesDependent personalityDissociationDivorce and separationDomestic violenceDrug and alcohol addictionEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFertility issuesForgivenessGender dysphoriaGuilt and shameImpulsivityInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessLife purposeMidlife crisisVeteran and Armed Forces IssuesMood disordersObsessions, compulsions, and OCDPanic disorder and panic attacksPersonality disordersPhobiasPolyamory / non-monogamous relationshipsPostpartum depressionPost-traumatic stressPregnancy and childbirthPrejudice and discriminationSeasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Self-harmSelf-loveSex addictionSexual assault and abuseSexualitySocial anxiety and phobiaWomen's issuesWorkplace issuesYoung adult issues
Therapeutic Approach
Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Mindfulness Therapy Motivational Interviewing Psychodynamic Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy Somatic Therapy Trauma-Focused Therapy Systemic Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience does Kelly Smith have?
Kelly Smith has 30 years of experience.
Is Kelly Smith a licensed therapist?
Yes. Kelly holds the credential LCSW, which stands for licensed clinical social worker. License details are NY LCSW 054827 and VA LCSW 0904016388.
In which languages does Kelly Smith provide therapy?
Kelly Smith provides therapy in English.
Where is Kelly Smith located?
Kelly Smith is located in Virginia.
How can I work with Kelly Smith as my therapist?
You can work with Kelly Smith through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Kelly Smith work with international clients?
Kelly Smith does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Kelly Smith cost?
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.
Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care with Kelly Smith
Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes a respectful, nonjudgmental environment where the client’s goals and self-discovery guide the work. This approach supports people who want to explore their identity, strengthen relationships, and build self-esteem through empathy and collaboration.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying patterns of thought and behavior that contribute to distress and developing practical strategies to change them. CBT can be helpful for anxiety, depression, OCD symptoms, and coping with daily challenges.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) teaches skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. It is especially useful for managing intense emotions, improving communication in relationships, and reducing impulsive reactions.
Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Kelly will work collaboratively with each person to determine which methods fit best based on needs, goals, and personal preferences, and may integrate techniques from different approaches as appropriate.
Online therapy with Kelly is offered through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, providing flexibility to fit therapy into a busy life. These options make it easier to maintain consistent treatment, access care from home or work, and choose the format that feels most comfortable for each session.