Michael Smith, LMHC

Michael Smith is a licensed mental health counselor in New York with 38 years of clinical experience supporting people through complex emotional and life challenges. He has worked extensively with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, developmental conditions and autism, social difficulties, substance abuse and addictions, existential concerns, and transitions that accompany major life changes. Michael combines a compassionate presence with a structured, evidence-informed approach to help clients make practical progress and find greater stability.

Drawing on therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, existential therapy, client-centered therapy, mindfulness practices, and applied behavior analysis, he helps clients identify unhelpful patterns, build coping strategies, and clarify personal values and goals. Sessions emphasize respectful collaboration, clear goals, and skills that can be used between appointments to manage stress, mood, and interpersonal difficulties. Michael creates a supportive atmosphere where individuals can explore difficult emotions, practice new ways of relating, and pursue meaningful personal growth.

He offers care that balances empathic listening with targeted interventions, aiming to help each person move toward clearer coping, improved functioning, and a stronger sense of purpose. Michael looks forward to working with clients who are ready to engage in thoughtful, steady therapeutic work.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Michael Smith integrates several proven approaches to support clients in online sessions. Client-centered therapy focuses on creating an accepting, nonjudgmental space where the client’s perspective guides the work - this approach helps people clarify their values, build self-understanding, and develop confidence in their own choices. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a practical, skills-based method that helps clients identify and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors that contribute to anxiety, depression, and stress. Mindfulness therapy teaches simple attention and awareness practices that reduce reactivity and improve emotional regulation.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Michael works with each person to assess needs, goals, and preferences, and then tailors techniques from these approaches to fit the individual. Over time the treatment plan can be adjusted based on what is most helpful.

Online therapy offers flexible options including video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, making it easier to fit therapy into busy lives and to continue care during transitions. These formats allow licensed professionals to deliver consistent support, skill coaching, and therapeutic feedback while accommodating different schedules, comfort levels, and accessibility needs.