Last edited 05/19/2026
Identifies As
She / Her / HersWomanBiracial or MultiracialChristianityBIPOC
Get To Know Me
What do you view as a key component of the therapeutic relationship?
I believe the heart of the therapeutic relationship is the sense of safety and trust a client feels with their therapist. Equally important is the therapist’s curiosity and attunement, being mindful of when a client needs gentle support, guidance, or opportunities to explore new skills and perspectives. Holding this balance with care and presence creates a space where clients can uncover insights, move through uncertainty with courage, and build a deeper connection with themselves while growing in ways that feel meaningful and lasting.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
Clients can expect a space that is just for them, where they feel truly seen, heard, and supported. They often leave sessions with new insights, practical tools, and experiences that foster healing and growth in daily life. As an EMDR-certified therapist attuned to the deeper layers of trauma, I bring specialized training and a compassionate, present approach to guide clients through their journey.
What does success look like in therapy? How will a client know that they are making progress?
Success in therapy looks different for each client as it is guided by what matters most to them. Together, we set collaborative goals and work toward them in ways that feel meaningful and achievable. Clients often notice progress in the insights they gain, the tools they carry into daily life, the gentle shifts in thoughts, feelings, and patterns that once felt overwhelming, and the ways they respond to life with greater clarity, confidence, and resilience.
Location
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Specialties
Specializes in
DepressionAnxietySexual Harassment & AssaultTraumaCouples
General Expertise
Relationship IssuesSelf-EsteemAddictionAnger managementLife transitionsMood disordersPost-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)Self HarmSpirituality & religion based issuesStressSubstance abuseCoping SkillsPeer RelationshipsIntimate Partner Violence & Domestic Violence
Treatment Approaches
Strength Based TherapyEye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)Culturally Sensitive TherapyPerson-Centered TherapyInternal Family Systems TherapySomatic TherapyDialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Motivational InterviewingSolution-Focused Brief TherapyPsychodynamic TherapyRelational TherapyThe Gottman Method
Clientele
Types of Therapy
Couples CounselingIndividual Therapy
Serves Ages
Adults (25-65)Seniors (65+)
Languages
English
Professional Background
LicensureCalifornia, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 99281
Training/CertificationsEMDR Certified TherapistIFS-Informed EMDREMDR and Somatic TherapyEMDR for Grief, Loss, & MourningEMDR-Informed Care for 911 ProfessionalsGottman Method Couples Therapy Level 1
Education
California State University, Northridge, Master of Social Work
Pepperdine University, Master of Arts, Psychology
Work HistoryI’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDR Certified Therapist with years of experience supporting adults facing a wide range of mental health challenges, including mood disorders, anxiety, addiction, and trauma. I began my work in community mental health, where I developed a deeply trauma-informed and compassionate approach while supporting individuals through complex and challenging life experiences.
Today, in my private practice, I specialize in trauma work, offering a supportive space where clients can move at their own pace and feel safe, understood, and gently supported as they heal.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s not uncommon to have questions before starting therapy.
Chantell Smeisser, LCSW, has answered a few of the questions they receive most often from new clients.
Is Chantell Smeisser accepting new clients?
Yes, Chantell Smeisser is accepting new clients for online therapy in California.
Does Chantell Smeisser accept insurance?
No, Chantell Smeisser does not accept insurance.
What types of therapy does Chantell Smeisser offer?
Chantell Smeisser offers therapy for couples and individuals.
Does Chantell Smeisser offer in-person appointments?
No, but people in California can book Chantell Smeisser for virtual appointments (teletherapy).
Does Chantell Smeisser offer online therapy?
Yes, Chantell Smeisser offers online therapy via video sessions and phone sessions to people in California.
How quickly can I see Chantell Smeisser?
Chantell Smeisser typically can speak with new clients within 48 hours. You can see their current general office hours and request an appointment on their profile page.
What languages does Chantell Smeisser speak?
Chantell Smeisser conducts therapy sessions in English.
Can I book an appointment with Chantell Smeisser online?
Yes, you can easily book an appointment with Chantell Smeisser online using ChoosingTherapy.com’s directory.
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