Cortney (Bota) Smith, LMHC

Cortney (Bota) Smith is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) practicing in New York with 11 years of clinical experience. She has worked primarily in community clinics providing face-to-face therapy to adults and for the past seven years has offered teletherapy through the platform, supporting people with a broad range of concerns from everyday stressors and relationship struggles to mood disorders, trauma, co-occurring conditions, and thought disorders.

Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling, supplemented by 1,000 clinical hours completed during internship placements. These experiences shaped a practical, person-centered approach in which the client’s goals guide the work. Cortney integrates solution-focused strategies and cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients identify actionable steps, reframe unhelpful thoughts, and build coping skills.

In session she emphasizes collaboration and respect for each person’s pace, offering support and guidance while encouraging clients to draw their own conclusions and make meaningful changes. Prospective clients should note her current office hours - Monday 9am to 2pm and Wednesday 9am to 3pm Eastern - and her willingness to accommodate some evening appointments when possible. She also recommends seeking a different counselor if consistent evening or weekend availability is a primary need.

Approaches and online care tailored to your needs

Cortney uses client-centered therapy to build a respectful, nonjudgmental environment where the person’s values and goals direct the work; this approach is helpful for people coping with life changes, relationship issues, and emotional overwhelm. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, is used to identify and shift unhelpful thought patterns and to develop practical skills for managing anxiety, depression, and stress. Solution-Focused Therapy concentrates on strengths and concrete steps - it helps people set clear goals and start making changes quickly when facing specific problems.

Finding the right approach is part of the process, and Cortney works collaboratively with each client to determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences. She adjusts techniques over time so therapy remains relevant and effective for the individual.

Online therapy modalities include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, offering flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier to maintain continuity of care, access sessions from home or work, and fit therapy into a busy life while preserving the therapeutic relationship with licensed professionals.