About Me
Hi, I'm Meghann Smith.
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I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing online counseling services in the state of Washington. I work with adults who have ongoing challenges with depression and anxiety, as well as adolescents and families with a variety of other struggles. My goal is to help you stop living life at a frenzied pace and start helping you make progress towards your goals. Start feeling more balanced.
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My Journey To Becoming A Therapist
I have battled with my own emotional and mental health problems. My struggles are what helped empower me with the ability to identify with other people’s emotions and experiences.
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I experienced a lot of challenges growing up. My family members struggled with many untreated mental health issues, and it affected me personally. Fortunately, personal counseling helped me set boundaries and ultimately have realistic expectations about relationships. Though I may be unable to completely help my own family, I have channeled my energy and strengths into helping other families heal. My life experiences are what lead me to become the Therapist I am today.
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Helping People Gives My Life Meaning
Being a Therapist is fulfilling. I love guiding people towards positive changes and watching them transform their lives. The most rewarding thing about being a Therapist is knowing that I made a difference in people's journeys through life. I am committed to helping you make progress towards your goals.
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I Have Empathy For Others And Bring An Open, Warm, Non-Judgmental Presence To Sessions
I have a natural ability to:
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Understand people's experiences
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Help people identify what they are feeling
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Collaborate with people to set goals and help them reach them
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Accept people for who they are and in their current life circumstances
People who know me often say that I am a good listener who can be fully present for people's stories, even if they are difficult stories.
Our Sessions Are Focused On You
Sessions will provide you with the space to be yourself. In feeling safe and comfortable, you'll be able to figure things out about yourself and express your thoughts and feelings.
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It's important to me to provide a non-judgmental space where you can be yourself and ensure that the process is collaborative. There isn't a "one size fits all" approach to Therapy. Our sessions will fit your specific needs and concerns.
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My Approach
As a strength-based therapist, I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to help promote and facilitate change, which is why I take an empathic, caring, & nonjudgmental stance. I describe myself as an "empathic, gentle, nerdy therapist," which means first and foremost, I focus on building strong rapport with great understanding and empathy.
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I hold an integrative approach to counseling, which is grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, structural family therapy, and emotion-focused therapy. I also take a non-directive stance, which means I will not tell you what to do, but rather guide you to gain your own insight and make your own informed decisions using personal values and beliefs. I believe you are, after all, the best expert on yourself; I look forward to getting to know you and helping you with the best of my abilities.
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My Professional Background
I have a Master of Arts Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University in Orange, CA. In addition, I have a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from University of the Pacific, in Stockton, CA. I was originally a Licensed MFT in the state of California, and took all legal steps to obtain an additional Marriage & Family Therapist License in the state of Washington. Specifically, I specialize in working with adult individuals, adolescents, and families.
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I have been in the private practice sector since August 2016. My professional background also includes working in school-based counseling, and acting as a parent consultant for families who had children diagnosed on the Autism spectrum. My varied experience as a therapist has equipped me to work with individuals, adolescents and families experiencing a wide range of issues, including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, family issues, children & families with special needs, life transitions, divorce & co-parenting, and neurodivergent adolescents & adults.
Just For Fun
I enjoy lots of hobbies outside the office, including: reading novels, board games with friends, baking, crafting, playing a variety of video games, watching movies, and exploring the beautiful Pacific Northwest!
Let’s Discover How I Can Help
Start rising above what you are going through. Contact me today to get your free phone consultation where you can share what’s going on for you and we can explore how I can help. I'm here for you, and I want to help.
As A Therapist, I Embrace The Following Philosophies:
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I believe that empathy can change the world
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I believe that you are worthy of love and care
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I believe that there is no shame in asking for help
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I believe that therapy should address the person as a whole - their mind, body, and spirit
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I believe that even if we feel like we've lost hope, it's possible to show up, commit to ourselves, and do what it takes to start feeling better
