Bethany Smith, M.A., LPC-S, NCC

• M.A., Community Counseling, Stephen F. Austin State University
• B.S., Psychology, minor in Music, Texas A&M University

• Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors, No. 63495
• National Certified Counselor, National Board for Certified Counselors, No. 282688

I use a person-centered approach to my work and seek to develop a collaborative and intentional relationship with my clients while being transparent and showing genuine concern and care. I also incorporate interpersonal process and use various mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, and self-compassion techniques as appropriate. Some of my areas of interest include working with self-worth concerns, eating disorders and body image concerns, identity development, sexual orientation and gender identity and expression, group therapy, and supervision/training.

I feel fortunate to be in the mental health field and at CAPS because it has provided me wonderful opportunities to grow and develop not only as a culturally competent clinician but also as a human being. I seek to understand and challenge the privilege that permeates many of my identities as well as power, privilege and oppression at all levels so that I may better serve students, nurture relationships with colleagues and friends, and use my own power and voice to make a difference. I believe growing in these areas is a lifelong process, and I continually seek knowledge through books, conferences, conversations, and articles to further my development.

I approach supervision similarly to how I approach therapy – building a meaningful relationship with my supervisee, teaching them new skills and interventions, and meeting them where they are in their process. I strive to create a warm and supportive atmosphere that inspires authenticity and transparency. I also ascribe to the “use of self” model in which we seek to understand how our personal and professional selves intersect in the therapy room. In addition, recognizing and exploring cultural and identity differences in the supervision relationship and with clients is crucial to fostering trust and growth. Supervision is one of my favorite aspects of my work, and I am constantly striving to learn more and improve.