Dr. David Smith, LICSW
Guide for midlife reflection and change
Opens BetterHelp in a new tab, where you can review online therapy options.
- Strengths-based focus
- Practical tools
- 20 years experience
About David
In the therapy room he focuses on helping people draw on their existing strengths. He uses straightforward conversation and practical tools to identify obstacles and develop personalized ways to move forward. Sessions often look at patterns from earlier relationships and current choices that affect well-being.
Dr. Smith draws on several approaches to match what a person needs. He uses client-centered techniques to keep the work focused on the person's goals. Cognitive methods help with managing anxious thoughts and changing unhelpful behaviors. He also integrates psychodynamic ideas to uncover repeated life patterns that cause pain.
People who reach out typically want help with stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, midlife questions, or substance and behavior problems. He also supports work on grief, career decisions, self-esteem, and parenting concerns. The emphasis is on practical steps that build resilience and create clearer options.
Dr. Smith encourages a collaborative process where the person sets the pace and priorities. He aims to help people see new possibilities and make changes that matter in daily life.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
20+ years
Credentials
Minnesota
Languages
English
How his approaches translate to online work
Dr. Smith commonly draws on client-centered work and cognitive behavioral strategies. Client-centered work focuses on the person's goals and experience, helping the therapist follow the person's lead and support what matters most. Cognitive behavioral techniques look at how thoughts influence feelings and actions, offering concrete tools to reduce anxiety and change unhelpful habits.Finding the right approach is part of the journey. He treats approach selection as a collaborative process and will help figure out which methods fit a person's goals and preferences. That exploration can include trying different techniques and adjusting the plan as goals change.
The practical benefits of doing this work online depend on the session options offered for scheduling and format. Confirm the current session formats before booking so you know what is available. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy day, reduce travel time, and allow for shorter check-ins when needed. These practical features often help people maintain steady progress while balancing work, family, and other commitments.
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does Dr. Smith address?
He works with stress, anxiety, relationship and self-esteem issues, midlife transition questions, addictions, grief, and related concerns listed in his profile.
How would you describe his therapeutic style?
He uses straightforward conversation, practical tools, and a collaborative approach that focuses on building on existing strengths.
What is his clinical background?
He has 20 years of experience as a clinical provider and has also worked as a professor, healthcare consultant, researcher, and writer.
What credentials does he hold and where is he based?
He holds a Minnesota LICSW and practices from Minnesota.
Which languages does he use in sessions?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people outside the United States work with him?
International clients are not currently accepted.
How are session costs handled?
Cost varies with location and therapist scheduling and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to therapist availability.