Dr. Bette Smyth, LPC

Dr. Bette Smyth, LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor), brings 35 years of experience in crisis intervention to her clinical work. She creates an interactive therapeutic environment where thoughts, emotions, and life experiences can be explored without fear of judgment, combining a research-oriented mindset with evidence-based methods.

Her approach is integrative, blending cognitive behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices and strategies that support spiritual growth. Through this mix of practical skills and reflective work, she helps people develop new ways of relating to themselves and to others so they can meet daily challenges with greater resilience and a renewed sense of possibility.

Over the course of her career she has worked in correctional institutions, government crisis agencies, hospital emergency departments, and hotline call centers. She has supported individuals, couples, and families facing depression, anxiety, feelings of isolation, intrusive thoughts, and end-of-life concerns. Those professional experiences have deepened her compassion and shaped a capacity to listen with an open heart.

Dr. Smyth welcomes hearing each person’s story and offers collaborative guidance aimed at fostering courage, recovery, and moments of joy.

Evidence-Informed Approaches and Online Care

Dr. Bette Smyth uses approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to guide online work. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on helping people accept difficult thoughts and feelings while taking committed action toward valued life goals, which can be useful for anxiety, stress, and persistent painful emotions. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes a respectful, non-directive stance in which the therapist listens deeply and supports the client’s own capacity for understanding and growth, helpful for building self-esteem and repairing relationships. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) targets unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors with practical strategies and skill-building, often used for depression, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts.

Finding the right therapeutic approach is part of the collaborative process. Dr. Smyth will work with each person to identify goals, preferences, and what feels most helpful, adjusting methods over time so therapy fits the individual’s needs.

Online sessions are offered by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging to provide flexibility and accessibility for busy schedules, caregiving responsibilities, chronic illness, or geographic distance. These options allow licensed professionals, including Dr. Smyth, to maintain continuity of care and to meet clients where they are in life.