Last edited 02/20/2026
Identifies As
She / Her / HersWoman, CisgenderWhite
Get To Know Me
In what ways does your personality influence your approach to therapy?
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.
What would be important for someone to know about working with 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.
Location
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Specialties
Specializes in
Artists' mental healthCreative blocks & writer's blockLGBTQIA related issuesSuicidal ideationNeurodiversity
General Expertise
DepressionAnxietyCareersWork StressRelationship IssuesLoss/GriefSelf-EsteemSexuality Based IssuesRace & Cultural IdentityAging related concernsChronic illnessCollege & graduate student issuesCultural adjustmentDependence issuesGender identity & transgender healthIdentity developmentLife transitionsMood disordersPremarital counselingTrauma
Treatment Approaches
Psychoanalytic TherapyPsychodynamic Therapy
Clientele
Types of Therapy
Family TherapyCouples CounselingIndividual TherapyGroup Therapy
Serves Ages
Young Adults (18-24)Adults (25-65)
Languages
English
Professional Background
LicensureCalifornia, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, 115452
Training/CertificationsCertificate in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, Wright Institute Los Angeles, 2019
Education
Doctor of Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Depth Psychology, Pacifica Graduate Institute, Santa Barbara, California, 2018
Masters in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Spiritual and Depth Psychology, Antioch University Los Angeles, 2013
Bachelor of Arts, The Evergreen State College, Olympia, Washington, 2000
Work HistoryHello, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s not uncommon to have questions before starting therapy.
Dr. Katherine W. Smith, LMFT, has answered a few of the questions they receive most often from new clients.
Is Katherine Smith accepting new clients?
No, Katherine Smith is not accepting new clients at this time.
Does Katherine Smith accept insurance?
No, Katherine Smith does not accept insurance.
What types of therapy does Katherine Smith offer?
Katherine Smith offers therapy for couples, families, groups and individuals.
Does Katherine Smith offer in-person appointments?
Yes, Katherine Smith offers in-person appointments at 420 S. Beverly Dr. , #100-17B, Beverly Hills, CA, 90212.
Does Katherine Smith offer online therapy?
No, but people can book in-person appointments with Katherine Smith at 420 S. Beverly Dr. , #100-17B, Beverly Hills, CA, 90212.
How quickly can I see Katherine Smith?
Katherine Smith 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 Katherine Smith speak?
Katherine Smith conducts therapy sessions in English.
Can I book an appointment with Katherine Smith online?
Yes, you can easily book an appointment with Katherine Smith online using ChoosingTherapy.com’s directory.
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