- ACT and CBT methods
- Client-centered listening
- Trauma and grief support
About Karyn
Dr. Karyn Smith is a Minnesota psychologist (MN Psychologist 6271) with 25 years of clinical experience. She works with people who face stress, anxiety, relationship strain, trauma and abuse, and other concerns such as depression, addictions, and parenting challenges. Sessions are conducted in English and her practice is based in Minnesota.
Her work draws on cognitive behavioral ideas and acceptance-based strategies to help people notice what matters and take small, practical steps. She also uses client-centered listening to clarify goals and priorities. Conversations focus on what is happening now and what changes feel doable for the person in front of her.
Dr. Smith has a long history of helping people who have survived neglect, physical or sexual trauma, and emotional abuse. She also supports people dealing with grief, caregiving stress, eating and sleeping difficulties, and issues related to identity such as gender dysphoria or LGBT concerns. She frames problems in plain terms and looks for skills that reduce distress and improve daily functioning.
Her approach blends straightforward skill teaching with reflective conversation. That may include behavior-focused exercises, strategies to manage intense feelings, and relationship-focused work when relevant. The emphasis is on learning methods that can be practiced between sessions.
Clients who choose to begin work complete a short matching questionnaire and schedule a first session. Dr. Smith uses a subscription payment model that can be canceled at any time; costs vary with location. International clients are not accepted.
Therapeutic approaches used in online sessions
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people notice thoughts and feelings without getting stuck in them and then choose actions that reflect personal values. It can be useful for anxiety, avoidance, and decisions about how to spend time and energy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying patterns of thinking and behavior that maintain distress and then practicing practical changes to reduce symptoms. It often helps with anxiety, mood, sleep, and problem-focused goals. Client-Centered Therapy prioritizes careful listening and collaboration so the person can clarify goals and make choices at their own pace.Finding the right approach is part of the work together. The therapist will discuss goals and preferences and suggest methods that fit the person's situation. That planning is collaborative and can change as progress is made.
The biography does not list specific online session formats, so confirm current options before booking. In general, online work can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy week, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when a full session is not needed. Different methods support different tasks - for example, CBT exercises may involve short between-session assignments, while ACT and client-centered work can focus on values and problem solving during meetings. Licensed professionals tailor pacing and homework to match everyday life and schedules.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
25+ years
Listed in
Minnesota
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does she address?
She works with stress, anxiety, relationship problems, trauma and abuse, depression, addictions, parenting strain, and related issues such as ADHD, grief, and eating or sleeping problems.
What is her therapeutic style?
Her style combines client-centered listening with cognitive behavioral and acceptance-based strategies to teach practical skills and clarify goals.
How much experience does she have?
She has 25 years of experience working as a psychologist, therapist, counselor, and life coach.
What are her credentials and where is she based?
She is a Minnesota psychologist (MN Psychologist 6271) and practices in Minnesota. Sessions are offered in English.
Can I work with her from outside the United States?
International clients are not accepted; sessions are offered to people located where she is licensed to practice in Minnesota.
What session formats are available?
The biography does not specify session formats. Please confirm current session options before booking.
How are fees handled?
Costs vary with location and services. Sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with her?
Use the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.