Thank you for taking the time to read my profile and congratulations on taking this step in self-care! Starting therapy can seem scary and intimidating, hopefully, soon, you'll understand how beneficial it can be. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing for approximately 23 years. After receiving my BA in Psychology from Ithaca College, I worked in a psychiatric hospital with all age groups, doing psychological testing, co-leading group therapy, and assisting in the intake process for new patients. I then earned my Masters in Social Work at Adelphi University and worked in the New York City Early Intervention Program. As much as I loved working with this population, I knew I needed to pursue my long-time interest of doing clinical psychotherapy. This led me to my work in community mental health organizations in New York, then New Jersey. In these environments, I was able to work with clients of all ages, presenting with a wide variety of concerns. I ultimately landed at my current position as a Clinical Director of a small, therapeutic school for grades 6-12 in Central New Jersey.
Thanks to the clinical experiences I've had, I'm comfortable and familiar with many presenting problems including: Anxiety, Social/School Anxiety and Avoidance, OCD,
Depression, Bipolar Disorders, Eating Disorders, those questioning Gender Identity, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Personality Disorders, self-injurious behaviors as well as suicidal ideation, Anger Management, and PTSD. I'm a firm believer that one approach does NOT fit all! After getting to know my clients and understanding their goals, I will incorporate different treatment modalities to fit their needs. People are complex; their needs are constantly changing, I see my role as being a flexible, non-judgemental, empathetic listener who will help my clients feel empowered and confident in their strengths and abilities.
Please note that I typically answer messages/emails in the afternoons through approximately 7pm. I am not available on the weekends.
I look forward to starting your journey with you!
Additional areas of focus: LGBT, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Parenting issues, Anger management, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, Abandonment, Attachment issues, Caregiver issues and stress, Commitment Issues, Communication problems, Control issues, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), Eating and Food-Related Issues, Family Problems, Fertility Issues, Forgiveness, Guilt and shame, Impulsivity, Isolation / loneliness, Mood disorders , Obsessions, Compulsions, and OCD, Panic disorder and panic attacks, Personality Disorders, Phobias, Postpartum Depression, Post-traumatic stress, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Self-Harm, Self-love, Sexual Assault and Abuse, Social anxiety and phobia, Women's issues, Workplace issues, Young Adult Issues
Clinical approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy
NJ LCSW 44SC05327300
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Jennifer Smith . We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Jennifer is very helpful and a fantastic listener.
Written on Nov 10, 2022 after therapy with Jennifer for 2 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, self esteem, and coping with life changes
Jennifer has changed my view on life substantially. Her support is genuine and objective. Jennifer’s support and insight has helped me through one of the toughest times in my life. I have a long way to go but I know with Jennifer’s help I can accomplish the goals I set for myself when beginning my journey to living a more fulfilled life.
Written on Jun 16, 2022 after therapy with Jennifer for 2 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, and intimacy-related issues
I have had experience with several therapists on and off for around 10 years. Jennifer is the first that I have really clicked with. She is great at both providing support, and challenging my thought patterns when appropriate. I am so glad I found her.
Written on Jan 24, 2022 after therapy with Jennifer for 3 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, and self esteem