Jenny Smith, LPC, CFRC, NCC

“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.”
-Carl Rogers

My goal as a therapist is to bear witness to each client’s unique experiences as they see them, help them to better understand their own perceptions, and uncover the inherent strengths of each individual in a warm and supportive environment. I aspire to help each client gain the skills that work best for them to navigate the challenges of life and create a therapeutic space ideal for exploration and self-compassion.

I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults experiencing a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, interpersonal/relationship conflict, LGBTQ+ issues, family conflict, trauma, emotional dysregulation, low self-esteem, life transitions, and ADHD concerns. I work with clients of all faith perspectives, and at your request, I am open to incorporating spirituality and faith into counseling.

I am also passionate about serving the First Responder community and am familiar with the needs unique to the Fire, EMS, Police, and Dispatch communities. I am able to accommodate shift-work schedules. I’m comfortable with your stories, and your humor is welcome here.

To meet the unique needs of each client, I am committed to tailoring the therapeutic experience to each individual. I work from a theoretical foundation of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CBT) with a trauma-informed approach. I believe each person has many parts to them that are all interconnected and should be addressed in therapy as much as possible to improve overall wellbeing. My goal is always to provide a collaborative and trusting atmosphere and to consider the holistic needs of each person to address all important parts of their life, including physical, mental, relational, and spiritual wellness.

In building a trusting therapeutic relationship, I hope to empower clients to learn more about themselves, their personal history, their relationships, and to learn the skills necessary to meet their needs. I believe a supportive and challenging space is key to processing through each of these things and to meeting a client’s personal goals.

MORE ABOUT ME:

I was born and raised in Northern Virginia and am currently living in Richmond, VA. When I am not working, you can find me hiking, cooking, or playing with my sweet cat, Mia.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING:

• Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marymount University
• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Christopher Newport University
• Certified First Responder Counselor (CFRC)
• National Certified Counselor (NCC)
• Member of American Counseling Association (ACA)

GROUP OFFERING(S):

DBT Skills Group for Adults

CREDENTIALS:

Licensed Professional Counselor

LICENSE:

VA 0701012554