Therapy Approach

Therapeutic Approach

Therapy requires a safe, nonjudgmental, and compassionate space where clients can explore difficult emotions, gain insight, and make meaningful change. Dr. Smith's strength as a psychologist is her ability to listen deeply to each client's emotions, thoughts, and life context, individualizing treatment to each person’s needs and goals. In her practice of therapy, she effectively balances exploratory and supportive therapy with the latest research and evidence-based interventions. 

It's not always easy discussing the "tough stuff" in therapy. Dr. Smith respects each client's pace and comfort level in the room, while also encouraging exploration of the emotions and patterns that may keep them feeling stuck. She also frequently works with clients’ strengths, bringing an uplifting energy into sessions. 

Specific Interventions

Dr. Smith’s work is grounded in humanistic psychology, integrating insights from cognitive-behavioral (CBT) and psychodynamic approaches. She also draws on well-established and research-supported methods, including Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Positive Psychology, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI), to help clients name and understand their emotions, shift unhelpful thinking, and build new ways of responding to life’s challenges. For clients struggling specifically with insomnia, she offers a brief, structured (6-session) CBT-I protocol.

Her style is relational, experiential, and grounded in science. Her work also reflects a social-justice lens considering the significant impact that all forms of oppression can have on wellbeing. 

For couples and family therapy, Dr. Smith blends Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman interventions, structural family therapy, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help partners and families recognize patterns, communicate more effectively, and strengthen their connection. 

Dr. Smith is a Health at Every Size aligned provider.

179 Great Road, Suite 102, Acton, MA 01720

(351) 333-7177

 drsmith@lightlistpsych.com