Ms. Mary Ellen Smith

In my experience, identifying that it is time to seek professional help is the first and most important step on the path to healing. When people are in emotional distress one of their greatest difficulties is reaching out and expressing painful thoughts and feelings. I believe that people are unique with individual needs and that establishing a safe and supportive environment promotes trust and courage to make positive changes.

I work with adults, adolescents and couples who may be overwhelmed with stressors in life, resulting in confusion, anxiety and/or depression. I have worked with grief and loss issues in acute medical settings, as well as working with clients in my private practice on losses related to death of a loved one, illness, loss of relationship, employment and other life changes.

I am committed to exploring with my clients better ways to manage their lives despite the losses or other difficulties they may be facing. This includes building healthy self esteem, changing patterns of thinking that may be barriers to moving ahead, and becoming empowered to achieve personal goals. I bring empathy, encouragement and humor into the process of developing a trusting relationship and learning positive coping tools. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.