seattle parenting therapist

Kelly smith, LMHCA (she/her)

I see the decision to engage in therapy as a strength and an act of courage. Often, beginning is the hardest part. It is not easy to share your stories, your raw spots, and your inner world with others. Maybe you’re struggling with parenting or your relationships, recovering from trauma, or have experienced a transition that is weighing heavily and has propelled you to seek support. I am really glad you’re here. 

Therapy with me is a non-linear process that includes vulnerability, awareness, and trying on new patterns or practices. I work well with clients who come as they are and who are up for the process, even if it’s scary or unknown. You might laugh or cry (or do both simultaneously) in therapy. I’ll make sure we have enough Kleenex and we will proceed at your pace. I commit to being fully present in our sessions, to caring about your story and about you as a human, and to walking alongside you toward your goals.

A little bit about me: I’m a mom/chauffeur to three kids; I don’t mind cold Seattle rain as long as it’s snowing in the mountains, and I am equal parts couch potato and passionate dance-fitness devotee. Before I became a therapist, I worked as a teacher, teacher leader, full-time parent, consultant, and facilitator.  

My approach to therapy

I work in person and virtually with individuals (age 13+), couples, and families. My approach to therapy is highly relational, grounded in attachment, experiential, and systems theories, and draws from current insights about connection and the nervous system. I have a keen interest in patterns and power dynamics within family systems, relationships, and institutions; together we will explore possibilities for deconstructing old patterns or beliefs that no longer align for you. 

I tailor my approach to your needs and goals, and I work from multiple modalities including: Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), somatic therapy, trauma-informed mindfulness and self-compassion, and skill-building (CBT and DBT).      

I am deeply committed to intellectual and cultural humility, which means that I am aware of my own biases and limitations and I trust your expertise about your own life. Creating a safe therapy space means that I wholeheartedly affirm you as a person, with all of your identities. 

Seattle family therapist with blonde hair sitting on a couch next to a potted snake plant, outdoors with trees and a lake in the background.

Areas of focus

  • Relationship Challenges / Family Conflict 

  • Parenting / Caregiving Concerns

  • Fertility & Postpartum Concerns 

  • Religious Trauma / Spiritual Abuse 

  • Grief and Loss

  • Pre-marital/Pre-commitment Counseling 

    I love working with people who are parenting; sometimes, having children really illuminates how past hurts or beliefs show up in the here-and-now, often just beyond our awareness. Parenting is TOUGH, and I believe that you deserve non-judgmental support. 

Education and training

  • Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Seattle University

  • Master of Instructional Leadership, University of Washington

  • Bachelor of Arts in Special Education, Western Washington University, Teaching Endorsements in Elementary and Special Education. 

Credentials

  • Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (#MC61609072)

MEET THE TEAM