Nelda Smart, LCSW, CA | Psychotherapist

About Nelda Smart

Focus areas

Anxiety

Parenting Counseling

Therapy For Chronic Pain / Illness

Dissociative Disorder

Stress Management

Women's Mental Health Issues

Mood Disorders

Suicidal Tendencies

Clientele seen

Young adults (18-24)

Adults (25-64)

Families

Treatment approaches

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

Culturally Sensitive

Coaching

Family Systems

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Humanistic

Identity

Gender

Female

Faith

Christian

Ethnicity

Hispanic or Latinx

Languages spoken

English, Spanish

Getting to know Nelda Smart

I have 20 years of experience supporting adults and families facing complex mental health challenges across all levels of severity. My approach to treatment is rooted in active, empathetic listening, meeting each client where they are, and recognizing that everyone has unique needs. I approach therapy with a positive, client-centered focus that prioritizes the individual's unique experiences, strengths, and personal goals. My work is grounded in empathy, unconditional positive regard, and a genuine connection between client and therapist. I strive to foster a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to explore their thoughts and emotions freely. I typically work with clients experiencing disturbances in daily functioning due to emotional issues and concerns. I am most comfortable treating individuals managing depression, anxiety, grief, and interpersonal challenges. My communication style involves clear and thoughtful language, fostering open dialogue, and creating a safe space for clients to express themselves freely. Through reflective listening, gentle encouragement, and insightful questioning, I help clients explore their thoughts, emotions, and challenges at their own pace. My journey to becoming a therapist began by witnessing how therapy helped my own parents during a very challenging time. My immediate family and I faced homelessness and addiction-related struggles. Therapy transformed my parents' parenting skills and changed the trajectory of our family, allowing us to thrive. As an adult, I knew I wanted to serve those who feel unheard and undeserving. I earned my Master's in Social Work from California State University, Fullerton, which equipped me with the knowledge and skills to support clients effectively. Goal setting is collaborative, personalized, and strength-based, recognizing that each client has unique needs, capacities, and circumstances.

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In-network insurances

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Popular visit reasons

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Depression

Mood Swings

Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD)

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit

Therapy

Women's Mental Health Issues

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Depression

Mood Swings

Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD)

Education and background

Practice names

Rula Health - L.A. West

Education and training

California State University, Fullerton, Master's in Social Work

NPI number

1760553259

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Frequently asked questions

How soon can I make an appointment with Nelda Smart?

Generally, Nelda Smart has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Nelda Smart's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.

Is Nelda Smart accepting new patients?

Nelda Smart generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Nelda Smart's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.

Does Nelda Smart accept my insurance?

Choose your insurance plan to verify if Nelda Smart is in-network.

Can I make an appointment with Nelda Smart online?

Yes, you can make an appointment online with Nelda Smart using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.

What practice does Nelda Smart work with?

Nelda Smart works with Rula Health - L.A. West.

What are common reasons for patients to see Nelda Smart?

Nelda Smart frequently sees patients for Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Nelda Smart on their profile.