Dr. Frederick Smoot, LMFT

Dr. Frederick Smoot is a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) practicing in California. He brings five years of clinical experience helping people navigate stress, anxiety, relationship and family challenges, grief, addiction, and life changes. He speaks English and accepts international clients. Dr. Smoot's style is warm, curious, and direct. He aims to be present and respectful, creating a space where people can speak openly without shame. Sessions focus on clear goals and practical steps that fit each person's life. He draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and client-centered principles to shape brief, actionable plans. That means identifying unhelpful thoughts, clarifying values, and practicing skills between sessions. Dr. Smoot also uses mindfulness and aspects of the Gottman Method when relational issues are central. This can include exercises for communication and building emotional awareness with partners or within oneself. Many people come for help with addiction, compassion fatigue, parenting strain, or career transitions. He also supports those working through trauma, intimacy questions, and identity-related concerns for LGBT clients. Practical steps are emphasized. Expect talk, skill practice, and homework that fits your schedule. The therapist works collaboratively to set priorities and measure progress so sessions stay focused on what matters most to you.

Approaches and online care that fit your life

Dr. Smoot commonly uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as cornerstones of his work. CBT looks at how thoughts and behaviors interact and focuses on changing patterns that keep problems going, which can be helpful for anxiety, depression, and stress. ACT focuses on what matters most to you, helping you act in line with your values even when difficult thoughts or feelings are present. He also brings client-centered principles into sessions, which means the work is shaped around your goals and experiences rather than a one-size-fits-all plan. Figuring out which approach or mix of approaches fits best is a joint process between you and the therapist. Goals, preferences, and practical needs guide the plan so therapy stays relevant and doable. Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. Video calls allow face-to-face interaction and are good for teaching skills and practicing communication. Phone sessions use less bandwidth and can be easier to fit into a break at work. Live chat and text messaging offer shorter check-ins and ongoing support between sessions. These options give flexibility so clients can choose what works best for their schedule and daily life.