Donna Smith , LMHC

Donna Smith is a master's-prepared Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Rochester, New York, with training from the University of Rochester. Over a 35-year career in diverse mental health settings, she has concentrated her practice on one-on-one therapy intended to enhance quality of life for individuals facing a wide range of challenges. She combines clinical training with a long-standing passion for creative writing, viewing each person's experiences as a collection of stories that shape both the life they have lived and the future they hope to build.

Donna frames her role as a guide who partners with clients to clarify goals and choose a path forward. Her approach emphasizes genuine, open, trusting, and hope-filled connection, bringing together professional skills and lived perspective to support meaningful change. Prospective clients who do not find a convenient appointment time are encouraged to send a message, as she will make efforts to accommodate scheduling needs. Donna values the courage it takes to begin therapy and offers steady companionship for those undertaking personal growth and healing.

Therapeutic Approaches for Accessible Online Care

Donna Smith uses evidence-informed methods adapted for online work, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people clarify what matters most to them and build psychological flexibility by accepting difficult thoughts and committing to values-guided action - it is often helpful for anxiety, stress, and coping with life changes. Client-Centered Therapy focuses on creating a supportive, nonjudgmental relationship in which the therapist listens deeply and reflects the client's experience, which can foster self-understanding and emotional growth in areas like relationship struggles, grief, and self-esteem.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Donna works with clients to identify goals, preferences, and practical needs, and she tailors methods so therapy fits each person rather than forcing a single model. That collaborative stance helps clients feel involved in shaping their care and allows adjustments as progress unfolds.

Online therapy with Donna is offered through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, providing flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier for people to access licensed professionals and therapists from their own communities, to maintain continuity of care during life transitions, and to fit therapeutic work into busy lives.