Shanua Smith, LPC-MH

Shanua Smith is a licensed counselor (LPC-MH) in South Dakota with 19 years of clinical experience. She helps people facing stress, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship concerns, trauma and abuse, and other life changes. Her style is warm and straightforward, aimed at practical steps people can use day to day.

Shanua creates a calm, non-judgmental space where clients can talk through painful memories and confusing feelings. Sessions focus on understanding patterns, building skills, and testing small changes that make life easier. She frames therapy as a partnership and invites people to bring real problems they want to resolve.

Her work draws on several evidence-based approaches. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used to notice unhelpful thoughts and try different responses. EMDR and trauma-focused strategies are offered when trauma memories need targeted attention. Motivational Interviewing supports people who want to make changes but feel unsure how to start.

Shanua also addresses issues like parenting strain, caregiver stress, addiction, body image concerns, ADHD, and career stress. She pays attention to how attachment and abandonment wounds affect current relationships. The focus is on practical coping, clearer communication, and rebuilding confidence.

People seeking help for midlife transitions or for chronic patterns of emptiness and shame will find a clinician who values steady progress. Shanua explains options plainly and helps craft a plan that fits each person’s goals and daily life.

How these approaches translate to online therapy

Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening, empathy, and following the client's lead. Online sessions using this approach typically center on open conversation, reflective feedback, and helping people clarify their goals and values.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) online uses structured conversations to identify unhelpful thoughts and try new behaviors. It often includes clear homework tasks, worksheets, and brief skill practice between sessions to reduce anxiety, improve mood, and manage stress.

EMDR is a trauma-focused method that targets distressing memories through specialized processing. When used remotely, the therapist explains each step carefully, monitors reactions, and works at a pace the client can manage. This can help with trauma, intrusive memories, and long-held emotional pain.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will collaborate with each person to pick methods that match their needs, goals, and comfort level. That choice can be adjusted as therapy progresses, and Shanua encourages open feedback about what feels helpful.

The practical benefits of online therapy include easier fit with daily life, fewer travel demands, and the ability to schedule sessions around work or family commitments. The biography does not list which session formats are offered, so confirm current options before booking. Many people find that remote sessions still allow focused, effective work on skills, relationships, and trauma symptoms.