Between 2018 and 2023, navigating my own mental health journey deeply reshaped my focus. It inspired my goal to one day become a guidance and mental health counselor, leading me to complete the Be There Foundation course. Understanding firsthand how vital it is to have someone in your corner led me to create The Listening Connection—a low-cost, judgment-free space for adults, with or without disabilities, to simply be heard. 

Dear Living with Disabilities Community,

Over the years, I have learned that sometimes people don't need someone to fix their problems. Sometimes, they simply need someone who is willing to listen.

After completing the Be There Foundation Mental Health Course and receiving my certificate, I began thinking about how I could use what I have learned in a meaningful and responsible way. This led me to begin developing something new: The Listening Connection.

The Listening Connection is a low-cost, judgment-free listening service for adults. It will offer two types of video sessions (up to 40 minutes): a General Listening Session for adults who simply need someone to talk to and a Disability & Conditions Listening Session for adults who would like a space to talk about their experiences living with a disability or condition.

I want to be clear about my role. I am not a therapist, counselor, doctor, or mental health professional. I am an active listener. My role is to listen, provide supportive conversation, and, when you ask for resources, share appropriate resources or encourage you to speak with your doctor or another qualified professional.

Because accessibility matters to me, sessions will be held by video conference. The platform will allow both the host and participant to use closed captions. If you require an interpreter or another accommodation that is not available through the platform, you will need to arrange that accommodation for yourself.

I also recognize that affordability can be a challenge, especially within the disability community. To ensure finances do not prevent someone from having an opportunity to be heard, session rates are structured as follows:

• Standard Low-Cost: $10 for 20 minutes | $20 for 40 minutes

• Fixed Income / Reduced Rate: $6 for 20 minutes | $12 for 40 minutes (for adults on SSI/SSDI or limited budgets)

• Pay-What-You-Can: $5 micro-tier for severe financial hardship

• Sponsored Sessions: $0 fully funded slots supported by community donations

The Listening Connection will be separate from Living with Disabilities, but it will grow from the same heart of connection that has guided my work. Living with Disabilities will continue to focus on disability advocacy, education, stories, resources, community, and the podcast. The Listening Connection will simply create another place where people can come together and be heard.

Sometimes you don't need an answer.

Sometimes you don't need someone to fix it.

Sometimes you just need someone to listen.

Thank you for allowing me to continue growing, learning, listening, and creating new ways for us to connect.

With appreciation and respect,

Katrina Smith

Host & Founder, Living with Disabilities

Founder, The Listening Connection