Dr. Katherine W. Smith LMFT

From my perspective, the personality of the therapist is the core of any psychotherapy. This is because every study on the effectiveness of psychotherapy shows that a strong, positive relationship between the therapist and the patient is the best predictor of successful treatment. In other words: you have to like your therapist for therapy to work. A therapist's approach and technique is informed by their knowledge and training, but is shaped by their personality and my personality has been described as adaptable, generous, kind, and funny. I bring a sense of play and curiosity to my approach which helps us to create a way of working together that is specific to you.

The most important thing to know about working with me is that I work with folks long-term. Many of my patients work with me for several years -- not because they don't "get better," but because the deep work that we do together becomes an integral part of their lives. I provide mental health care that emphasizes real *care* in a world where quick fixes are the norm. And developing the kind of relationship that makes trust, depth, and care possible takes time.

• California, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, 115452

Hello, I'm Dr. Katherine W. Smith (she/her/hers). I practice inclusive psychodynamic & psychoanalytic psychotherapy for "loveable weirdos" -- folks who might feel out of place or don’t always feel like they belong, creative people like artists, writers, and musicians, introverts, and neurodivergent folks -- people who struggle with relationships but have a strong desire to connect with others. We will take our time to explore who you are, including your family history, in order to understand how your past influences your present. As our relationship develops, we will also pay attention to our interpersonal dynamics. Working this way can alleviate the pressure and anxiety that “lovable weirdos” may feel in other parts of your life. I've been in practice since 2012, and trained at The Los Angeles LGBT Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Angeles Psychology Group. and Wright Institute Los Angeles. I am a member of the faculty at Antioch University Los Angeles, Reiss-Davis Graduate School, Wright Institute Los Angeles, and Pacifica Graduate Institute. I supervise psychotherapy trainees at Valley Community Counseling Clinic and the Wright Institute Los Angeles. I am also also available for clinical consultation to licensed mental healthcare providers.