Couples Therapists in Smithtown, NY

I am best able to assist those who struggle with competitive relationships, and feelings of being on the losing side in their interactions with those they love. I have seen couples, individuals, and entire families struggling with attempts to force one another to 'win' arguments, only to find that they never seem to go away fully. Many times, other issues such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders,sexual dysfunction or substance abuse becomes the main issue which families show to others the competitive nature which occurs within the family system, and are most concerned when they call for an initial session.

For more than 20 years I have worked with individuals and couples struggling with relationships, depression, stress, and anxiety for several different reasons including infertility. I take a culturally sensitive approach to working with clients including couples from different backgrounds. My treatment is psychodynamic and compassion oriented. I strongly believe that people can change and relationships can improve. Quality of life and contentment are possible. In my practice I have had the privilege of witnessing profound changes in individual clients and couples.

Therapy should not only focus on relieving your symptoms and distress but is also about building greater capacities for dealing with life's inevitable stresses and anxieties. I believe it is important to actively collaborate with you to find out what it is you want from therapy and to periodically evaluate the progress toward these goals. I look to tailor each person's therapy to their specific presenting problems and goals so that they will be able to feel better and feel more capable in facing life's challenges.

"Wellness is a journey, not a destination"

Something might have happened or be happening in your life and you feel that it is not easy to deal with; You might be suffering from depression, anxiety, or other psychological problems; You might have found that some areas of your life, certain aspects of yourself or your relationship/family are not that satisfying; You might be concerned about your child or your loved one... Those are some of the situations when people come to me and benefit greatly from our contacts. I believe that each individual is uniquely different and I always adjust my approach accordingly to meet your specific needs.

We face many changes and challenges as we transition from one stage of life to another. Often times we go through life without guidance with the hopes of finding fulfillment and happiness. I specialize in working with individuals a young as 11 years old who are dealing with issues of low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, difficult peer relations, behavioral and learning problems. I also work with young adults who are struggling with career choices, relationships issues, or who are simply adjusting to life's challenges.

Whether you are struggling with past or recent trauma, anger, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, or relationship concerns, it is important that you know you do not have to be alone in this journey. You deserve someone who will listen intently, understand fully, and provide an open, supportive, and non-judgmental space to rebuild through. At Clear Direction Psychological Services, you will learn with the support, expertise, knowledge and guidance of your psychologist, Dr. Smyth, how to better relate to and understand your experiences, thoughts, feelings, behaviors, relationships, and challenges. You will restore vitality in your life.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or anxious? Or do you have an adolescent that you are worried about? I know that making the first call or contact can create a great deal of anxiety. However, I make it easy to reach out. I love working with individuals, adolescents, and families, and have over 15 years of experience. I believe in a holistic approach to treatment and feel that the body/mind connection is very important. I look forward to working with you. Please call me with any questions.

People often encounter emotional and behavioral obstacles on the path through life. These challenges not only impact us directly but may extend into school/work functioning and the entire family. There are many different reasons we develop emotional and behavioral issues. Some examples include, anxiety and mood disorders, anger issues, developmental disabilities such as autism or ADHD, and the increasing demands being placed on us in life. The great news is there are many evidence based tools and strategies to help us overcome these challenges. Finding the right help is the first step.

Therapy can be challenging and difficult, while at the same time rewarding and gratifying. My goal is to help you live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

I want to help you be in charge of your feelings, rather than your feelings be in charge. I want to help you feel better about yourself and enjoy life and work and all it has to offer. I want to help you enjoy family and friends and get along with them as best you can. I will be committed to helping you attain your goals.

The unfolding nature of our lives is a sacred journey and can be trusted. When we know how to listen, engage and trust the wisdom of our own lives, journeys and hearts, we become more ourselves. I view therapy as a process of learning to listen and live life more authentically, from our inner GPS, rather than from others telling us who we are, who we should be and what to think/do/etc. This process is key to life satisfaction as we become the person we were meant to be.

Many people find themselves feeling sad, overwhelmed, stressed, lonely, isolated and anxious. You may find yourself trying to cope with an illness, relationship troubles, body image, the death of a loved one, low self-confidence, divorce, anger, poor self care, shame, guilt, substance abuse, or other feelings. These issues can significantly impact your quality of life. The focus of my practice is to provide a supportive environment that allows you to talk openly with someone who's objective, neutral, and nonjudgmental. You and I can work together to identify and change the patterns and barriers that are keeping you from feeling your best.

Life can be difficult. There’s no denying this. And, at times, life can seem even more difficult. Have you been feeling sad, stressed, worried, confused, frustrated, angry, or at a bit of a loss? Perhaps you’ve experienced, or are facing, a transition in life (e.g., a break-up, divorce, loss of a loved one, medical challenge, retirement, engagement, marriage, etc.) that is leaving you feeling any number of ways. Or maybe you're feeling a certain way and don't know why. If so, you're likely looking to find some peace, clarity, understanding, and support so you can live a happier, healthier, and more authentic life.

Taking the step for counseling is the most important decision you can make for YOU! My encouraging client centered, solution focused approach will provide support for you to explore your issues of concern. I am dedicated to providing a safe, non-judgmental and caring environment so that each client feels comfortable and understood.

Are you feeling sad,anxious, angry, guilty? Do you have relationship problems? Does it seem as though your life is in limbo? Past hurts, experiences, loss, childhood trauma can affect your current day life. I can help you with these issues. In a warm, safe, compassionate setting we can explore these issues together. We can identify conflicts and patterns of behavior that get in your way, work them through, and resolve them. The first step is for you to call me.