Work with Marcella Smithson (M.S., M.P.H., LMFT)

About Me

There are times when we need to explore some growth & healing work. Thankfully the ability to grow & heal is built into our human-nature, a nature that comes alive when receiving the support we need. Therapy is for receiving this support, and in a way that fits with you. And so I trust in this: Creating in your own expressive way a better life is what I know you are able—and meant—to do. Supporting you in discovering this for yourself will be a heartfelt privilege for me.
I am trauma-attachment focused and informed. I am trained in EMDR by Curtis C. Rouanzoin,Ph.D. under EMDR Institute, Inc., EMDRIA; Couples - Trained by Susan Johnson, PhD, Emotion-Focused Therapy. I am a certified mindfulness teacher (by Tibet House & Dharma Moon).
I am experienced in the field of mental health with over 15 years experience at the public health level, and on the front lines as a therapist. I am trained in evidenced-based techniques. My approach: Unconditional Positive Regard, Humanist, Trauma-attachment focused informed care. You Can Expect From Me: Honesty, Empathy, and an Ally.

Specialties

Stress, Anxiety
Relationship issues
Trauma and abuse
Self esteem
Depression

Also experienced in:
Addictions , Family conflicts , Grief , Sleeping disorders , Parenting issues , Anger management , Coping with life changes , Abandonment , Aging and Geriatric Issues , Attachment Issues , Autism and Asperger Syndrome , Caregiver Issues and Stress , Chronic Pain Illness and Disability , Dissociation , Divorce and Separation , Drug and Alcohol Addiction , Emptiness , Family of Origin Issues , Forgiveness , Guilt and Shame , Impulsivity , Isolation/Loneliness , Mood Disorders , Post-traumatic Stress , Self-Love , Sexual Assault and Abuse , Women's Issues Read more...

Clinical approaches:
Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Focused Therapy

Years of Experience: 7

Services Offered

Messaging
Phone
Video

Licensing

LMFT #111164 (Expires: 2023-01-31)

Reviews

These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Marcella Smithson. 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.

Written by D.R. on Aug 06, 2022 after therapy with Marcella for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, and intimacy-related issues

I’m enjoying my sessions with Marcella. She is very sweet and understanding.

Written by D.A. on Jul 27, 2022 after therapy with Marcella for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, and coping with life changes

Marcella is patient and understand, but also honest. She uses her outside yet professional perspective to offer advice and strategies to cope you through. Additionally, she provides homework to complete on your own time to help you be accountable and serious about making the change you are striving towards!

Written by E.L. on May 04, 2022 after therapy with Marcella for 2 weeks on issues concerning relationship issues, and coping with life changes

Marcella listened, provided great advice, and taught me valuable skills to independently think through my problems and make decisions that are right for me

Written by S.I. on Apr 21, 2022 after therapy with Marcella for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, and sleeping disorders

First session went great. I felt comfortable talking to her and the great tips she has provided to me.

Work with me!