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DS Portrait of David Smith

David Smith

Compassionate, practical therapy focused on change

LMHC Iowa

Experience
25 years in practice
Focus areas
Stress, Anxiety, Relationship, Anger
Approaches
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Languages
English
Continue with David

About David

David Smith is an Iowa-licensed LMHC with 25 years of clinical experience who focuses on helping adults manage stress, anxiety, depression, anger, relationship strain, and major life transitions.

Background and approach

He approaches each person as the expert on their own story and looks for practical ways to build on existing strengths while addressing the obstacles that prevent movement toward greater satisfaction and connection. His manner is accessible, empathetic, and pragmatic, and he aims to encourage clients to try new ways of thinking and behaving that support lasting change.

Drawing on a range of therapeutic traditions, David commonly uses cognitive and behaviorally oriented techniques alongside acceptance and client-centered perspectives and elements of relationship work. He emphasizes collaborative goal-setting, periodic check-ins about progress, and solutions that fit each client’s context.

David also brings experience addressing a wide set of concerns including attachment and family of origin issues, communication and commitment problems, codependency, addiction-related matters, aging and geriatric topics, forgiveness, and guilt and shame. He accepts international clients and conducts sessions from his Iowa practice in English.

How therapy approaches translate to online care



Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps people identify unhelpful thought patterns and test new behaviors; it is often used for anxiety, depression, stress, and anger by teaching practical skills to rethink situations and change reactions. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) emphasizes noticing difficult thoughts and feelings while clarifying personal values and committing to actions that align with those values, which can aid people coping with life transitions and persistent emotional pain. Client-Centered Therapy focuses on empathic listening and creating a nonjudgmental space where clients are supported in exploring their own solutions and building self-trust.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will work with clients to determine which methods fit their needs and preferences, adjusting techniques over time and checking in regularly to ensure progress and comfort with the plan.

Online sessions are available by video, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging to increase flexibility for scheduling and to make therapy accessible from different locations. These formats allow sustained, consistent care while accommodating busy routines and life demands, and they support ongoing work on skills, communication, and relationship goals with a licensed professional.

Frequently asked questions

What types of problems does this therapist help with?
He works with adults on concerns such as stress, anxiety, depression, anger, relationship challenges, and coping with life changes, plus related issues like attachment, family problems, addiction, and guilt.
How would you describe the therapist's approach in sessions?
The style blends practical, action-oriented methods with empathic listening using cognitive behavioral strategies, acceptance-based ideas, and client-centered engagement to set collaborative goals.
What is his professional background and experience level?
He has worked in clinical practice for 25 years, bringing long-term experience helping people navigate stress, relationships, anger, and mood challenges.
Where is the therapist licensed and what credentials does he hold?
He is licensed as an LMHC in Iowa with licence number IA LMHC 00254 and conducts practice from that state.
Can I work with him if I live outside the United States?
Yes, he accepts international clients and offers sessions to people outside the U.S., conducting care in English.
Which session formats are available for remote care?
Sessions are offered through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging depending on scheduling and client preference.
How are fees and payment handled for sessions?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.
What are the steps to begin working with him?
Begin by selecting the Start Therapy button, completing a short matching questionnaire, and then scheduling an appointment according to his availability.

Areas of expertise

Primary focus

Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes

Additional focus areas

Aging and geriatric issuesAttachment issuesCodependencyCommitment issuesCommunication problemsControl issuesDivorce and separationDrug and alcohol addictionEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFatherhood issuesFirst responder issuesForgivenessGuilt and shameInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessLife purposeMen's issuesMidlife crisisMoney and financial issuesMood disordersPanic disorder and panic attacksSelf-loveSex addictionSexualitySocial anxiety and phobiaWorkplace issuesYoung adult issues

Therapeutic approaches

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Existential TherapyGottman MethodJungian TherapyMindfulness TherapyMotivational InterviewingNarrative TherapyPsychodynamic TherapySolution-Focused TherapySystemic Therapy

Experience

25+ years

Licensed

Iowa

Languages

English