David Smith, LMHC

David Smith is an Iowa-licensed mental health counselor with 25 years of experience. He works with adults facing stress, anxiety, relationship strain, anger, depression, and life transitions. He emphasizes practical steps and clear goals to help people move toward a more satisfying life.

He keeps sessions straightforward and focused. He listens first, then helps identify patterns that get in the way. From there he and the client look for small changes that make daily life easier and more meaningful.

David uses several approaches to match each person's needs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps people notice and shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) supports people in clarifying values and taking committed action. Client-centered work creates a respectful space where people can be heard and understood.

He also draws on the Gottman Method and existential ideas when relationship questions or questions about meaning come up. His style is accessible and pragmatic - he offers tools, homework, and real-world practice between sessions. He encourages regular check-ins so therapy stays on track.

David often helps people untangle family of origin issues, codependency, communication problems, addiction concerns, aging and geriatric issues, fatherhood questions, and forgiveness or guilt struggles. He accepts international clients and conducts sessions in English. If someone is ready to begin, he supports a collaborative start and ongoing adjustments as progress is made.

How therapy approaches translate to online work

David uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people notice thought patterns and shift behaviors that keep problems going; this can be useful for anxiety, depression, and stress. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is also part of his work and focuses on clarifying values and taking small, committed steps toward a meaningful life.

The right approach is something to figure out together. He works collaboratively with clients to choose and adjust methods based on their goals, preferences, and what feels useful in real life. That means trying techniques, reviewing results, and changing direction when needed.

Online sessions are offered by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging to make care flexible. Video lets people work face to face when that helps. Phone sessions can fit a break at work or be easier when bandwidth is limited. Live chat and messaging support brief check-ins, homework review, or ongoing coaching between appointments.