Maxine Smith, LICSW — Therapist in District of Columbia

Hi there, I'm Maxine!

We are all the total of our experiences, at different points in our lives, and sometimes we need a supporting hand to help us walk through challenging situations that threaten to overwhelm us. I use a strengths-based approach to help you navigate what you're facing.

My focus

I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, navigating loss, young people contemplating marriage, parents having difficulties with their children, and people processing traumatic events or other acute stressful experiences.

My approach

I draw from attachment theory, systems theory, trauma-focused lens, cognitive behavioral theory, psychodynamic theory, and solution-focused therapy. This combination allows me to tailor treatment to your unique needs and help you build on your existing strengths while addressing the challenges you face.

My communication style

I create an environment where you are free to show up authentically and start where you are without judgment. Life happens to all of us, and we all show up with different scars. Come with the expectation that you need to heal and know that healing will sometimes become uncomfortable.

My journey to mental healthcare

My own life experiences, managing loss, and my parenting journey have shaped my path to becoming a therapist. Getting positive feedback from people in education, child welfare, and community settings reinforced my commitment to this work.

My goals for you

You identify your goals, and we work collaboratively to create a treatment plan that honors your strengths and addresses the challenges you face. I help you build skills and strategies that support meaningful progress toward the life you want to live.

Our first session

The first session includes an initial assessment, a summary of your experiences to date. We'll discuss what brings you to therapy, explore your goals, and begin building a collaborative relationship where you feel heard and understood.

I identify as...

Female
Black or African American
Christian

Expertise

Specialties

+ 12 more

Treatment approaches

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Dialectical (DBT)

Child/Parent Psychotherapy

Christian Counseling

Parent-Child Interaction (PCIT)

+ 5 more

Focus populations

BIPOC

Educators

First Generation American/Immigrant Parents

Police/Fire/First Responders

Racial Justice

Single Mother

+ 6 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy
Family Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
Aetna - Medicare Advantage
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied

+ 52 more

Languages spoken

English, Patois

Education

Master of Social Work (MSW) in Children and Families from University of Southern California.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Maxine Smith