CHRISTINA SMITH, LPC

Christina Smith (pronouns: she/her) is a licensed professional counselor who works with children, adolescents, adults, groups and families. Her specialty interests include: children’s and adolescent issues, trauma, women’s issues, family conflict, and integrating creativity and positive psychology into counseling practice. She utilizes treatment approaches that are evidence-based and uniquely tailored to each client.

Christina attended Cuyahoga Community College where she completed an associate’s degree in early childhood education before transferring to Kent State University. There, she completed a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in human development and family studies. Christina completed a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling, also at Kent State University. She has a strong love of lifetime learning and enjoys being able to tie together her two biggest interests: helping children and studying the mind.

Prior to private practice, Christina worked with diverse clients in the early childhood field, college, and community mental health settings. Over the last 10 years, she has had many unique opportunities – from being a teacher to training teachers on how to incorporate mental health awareness into their classrooms, co-facilitating child and adolescent counseling groups, and working as a community case manager assisting families in need – that have contributed to her passion for helping others and her clinical approach. Christina currently holds a certification in child abuse prevention and most recently has gained clinical experience working with emerging adults and adults.

Christina’s approach to counseling is emotion- and present-focused. She believes that change is the result individuals being aware of their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors and processing them in a realistic way. As a counselor, she strives to be non- judgmental, empathic and believes in a holistic approach. Her strengths include: a love of learning, psychoeducation, and her warmth.