Catherine smith, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-S, C-DBT, RYT

Why do you do this?

I genuinely enjoy working with people who are ready to change. I believe everyone is capable of living a meaningful life, no matter what they are struggling with now. I believe that every single person deserves a chance to heal. I believe that we all make mistakes, but they do not define us. I believe recovery is possible.

What is your therapy style?

I use a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach to therapy. I use skills from DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) in combination with other therapeutic modalities to find a good fit for each client.

How do you treat people with BPD?

I believe that people with BPD are doing their absolute best, trying their hardest to navigate a world that can be confusing and unfriendly. When I approach clients with that perspective - that what they're doing makes sense, and at the same time, they want to do better and need help to change - I have found that they are able to make great progress in reducing harmful behaviors.

Education and licensure

I have an MSW (Master of Social Work) degree from the University of Southern California School of Social Work. I graduated in 2015.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Texas (64681), Utah (13135797-3501) and Colorado (9925462) and a registered telehealth provider in Florida (514). I also hold a supervisor designation in TX.

I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (C-DBT 169638). I'm also a Registered Yoga Teacher - 200 Hour (139839).

Professional experience

I started as a group therapist in 2015. After that, I worked in crisis assessment for several years, talking to people who experience suicidal thoughts and urges. I opened my private practice in January 2020.

I also have a background in education as a community college instructor, and provide educational talks to other clinicians on how to treat Borderline Personality Disorder and how to provide telehealth (online) services. 

Additional training

I have completed additional post-licensure training in the following areas:

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy
• Trauma informed care
• Crisis prevention and de-escalation
• Motivational Interviewing
• Alcohol and substance use
• LGBTQ+ visibility
• Diagnosing and treating Borderline Personality Disorder.