Shirley Smith, LMFT, CA | Psychotherapist

About Shirley Smith

Focus areas

Anxiety

Life Transition

Stress Management

Depression

Mood Disorders

Work-Related Counseling

Family Therapy/ Marriage Therapy

Stress

Clientele seen

Young adults (18-24)

Adults (25-64)

Individuals

Treatment approaches

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)

Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Motivational Interviewing

Emotionally Focused

Structural Family Therapy

Identity

Gender

Female

Ethnicity

Asian

Languages spoken

Chinese (Cantonese), English

Getting to know Shirley Smith

Hi there, I'm Shirley! Taking the first step into therapy can feel daunting—it requires real courage to share your story with someone new. I deeply respect the bravery it takes to begin. Therapy isn't about fixing you; it's a process of self-acceptance, healing, and rediscovering who you truly are in a safe, non-judgmental space. My focus Whether you are managing anxiety, processing trauma, navigating relationship shifts, or rebuilding your self-worth, I provide dedicated support for adults facing life’s heaviest moments. Together, we’ll build an empowering, realistic path toward healing and personal fulfillment. My approach I take a holistic, integrative approach because no two people are the same, your expertise in your own life guides our work, complemented by my clinical insight. Together, we will look closely at what is and isn't working for you. Within a trust-based space, I provide feedback, practical coping strategies, and tools to support your personal growth. My communication style My communication style is direct, collaborative, and empathetic. As your partner, I provide open dialog, active reflection, and a space where your perspective always leads—you are fully invited to correct or challenge me. If we encounter heavy or challenging feelings, I won't rush the process; I will give you the time and emotional space you need. My journey to mental healthcare Driven by personal experience with trauma and a deep fascination with human psychology, my own path to healing showed me the transformative power of therapy. Today, I use that insight to guide others through their life journeys. I hold a core belief that with commitment and space to do the work, everyone has the ability to heal and evolve. My goals for you Our work together is a true partnership built around goals that evolve with you. Healing isn't always linear, and setbacks are often a natural precursor to lasting progress; together, we’ll explore the root of any challenges without judgment.

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Popular visit reasons

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Depression

Mood Swings

Parenting Counseling

Postpartum Depression

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit

Therapy

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Depression

Mood Swings

Parenting Counseling

Education and background

Practice names

Rula Health - L.A. South

Education and training

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy

NPI number

1891312237

Patient reviews

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Frequently asked questions

How soon can I make an appointment with Shirley Smith?

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

Is Shirley Smith accepting new patients?

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

Does Shirley Smith accept my insurance?

Choose your insurance plan to verify if Shirley Smith is in-network.

Can I make an appointment with Shirley Smith online?

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

What practice does Shirley Smith work with?

Shirley Smith works with Rula Health - L.A. South.

What are common reasons for patients to see Shirley Smith?

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