Sydney Smith, LPC

(she/her/hers)

Online Therapy

About Me

I believe we all crave meaningful connection and this is one of the reasons why counseling is so powerful. Ultimately, counseling is a specialized and unique relationship in which to practice new skills, process deep wounds, and build self-understanding. Everyone is wired with physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual needs. These needs function together as a whole, so hurt in one area may bring hurt in another. But the good news is that healing works this way too– healing in one area of your experience can have ripple effects throughout your life. Knowing this, we’ll explore your experiences with new perspectives for all the opportunities that bring healing.

Education & Experience

I have a special interest working with anxiety in the many ways it manifests and I don't pathologize these normal experiences. Yet sometimes anxiety and pain so overwhelm us that we don't know where to turn. Even if it doesn't feel true for a season, I believe we all have the ability to flourish as we gain resources, coping strengths, and deeper understanding of ourselves. I work with clients to explore perfectionism, shame, inner critics, and parts of self that feel stuck in the past. I understand that spiritual/religious influences can have unique impacts on mental health, whether a source of pain or comfort (and often a confusing mix of both!). My aim is to simultaneously “mourn with those who mourn” and hold hope for my clients’ flourishing. I welcome clients of all beliefs and will never impose my own. We’ll prioritize evidence-based approaches, holistic perspectives, and your personal preferences. In addition to my clinical work, I am a doctoral student in Counselor Education & Supervision. Through this additional training, I have experience providing cross-cultural clinical supervision to counselors in Ukraine. I have research interests in trauma, IFS, and faith/spiritual issues in counseling.

Professional & Volunteer Affiliations

I hold professional memberships with the Ohio Counselor Association (OCS), American Counseling Association (ACA), Association for Counselor Education and Supervision (ACES), & Chi Sigma Iota honor society.

Specialty Area

  • Abuse/Neglect
  • Anxiety/Panic Attacks
  • Attachment Disorders
  • Mood Disorders
  • Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Self-Harm
  • Sexual Abuse
  • Somatic Issues
  • Spirituality
  • Stress Management
  • Survivor's Guilt
  • Traumatic Incident

Population Served

  • Adolescents (13-17)
  • Adults
  • Underserved

Language

  • English

Insurance

  • Does Not Accept Insurance