Kathy Smith , LCSW, LICSW

Kathy Smith brings four decades of clinical experience to her work as a licensed social worker in North Dakota and Minnesota. She holds the credentials LCSW and LICSW, clinical social work licenses that reflect extensive training and practice in helping people through difficult transitions. Over the years she has focused on stress and anxiety, grief and loss, depression, and the challenges that come with life changes and compassion fatigue.

Kathy approaches each person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, operating from the belief that people are doing the best they can with the skills they have. She is committed to the idea that change is possible and that individuals deserve support as they learn new ways of coping and moving forward. Her work is personalized - conversations and treatment plans are tailored to a person’s unique needs, circumstances, and goals.

Beginning therapy can take courage, and Kathy honors that step. She aims to create a supportive environment where clients can explore emotional pain, develop practical coping strategies, and work toward meaningful change at a pace that fits their life.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Support

Kathy commonly draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, client-centered therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy in her practice. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy helps people notice difficult thoughts and feelings without getting stuck in them while clarifying values and committed actions - it can be helpful for anxiety, depression, and coping with life changes. Client-centered therapy emphasizes a respectful, empathetic relationship where the therapist follows the client's lead and supports self-directed growth, which is useful for building insight and confidence. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a practical approach that identifies unhelpful thinking patterns and builds skills to change behaviors and emotional responses, often used for stress, mood concerns, and anxiety.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Kathy collaborates with clients to determine which methods best match their needs, goals, and personal preferences, and she adapts strategies over time as progress unfolds.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility - sessions can be scheduled as video calls, phone conversations, live chat, or text-based messaging to fit varied routines and mobility needs. These options make it easier to access consistent support from licensed professionals and therapists without requiring travel, allowing people to maintain therapy alongside work, caregiving, or health limitations.