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Claudia Smith, LCSW

California LCSW focused on growth
  • Stress and anxiety support
  • Addictions recovery help
  • Strengths-based coaching

About Claudia Smith

Claudia Smith is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in California with 40 years of clinical experience. She has helped people manage stress and anxiety, cope with addictions, build motivation and self-esteem, and work through depression. Drawing on decades of practice, she emphasizes a strengths-based, client-centered approach that treats each person as the expert of their own story and respects the resources they already bring to change.

Claudia supports clients facing a wide range of challenges, including ADHD, family and relationship concerns, grief, bipolar disorder, and issues related to adoption and foster care. She also works with people navigating life transitions, codependency, chronic health challenges, and questions about purpose and identity. Her background as an LCSW signals advanced clinical training and licensure to provide therapeutic services in California.

She views the decision to seek therapy as an act of courage and meets clients with empathy, patience, and practical tools. Claudia aims to empower people to take the first steps toward a more fulfilling life, working collaboratively to build confidence, reduce distress, and strengthen coping skills tailored to each person’s goals and circumstances.

Areas of Expertise

Also Specializes In

Family conflictsGriefBipolar disorderCoaching

Additional Focus Areas

Adoption and foster careAttachment issuesAvoidant personalityBlended family issuesChronic pain, illness, and disabilityCodependencyDivorce and separationDrug and alcohol addictionFamily of origin issuesFatherhood issuesGuilt and shameHIV / AIDSImpulsivityJealousyLife purposeVeteran and Armed Forces IssuesMood disordersMulticultural concernsObsessions, compulsions, and OCDPanic disorder and panic attacksPersonality disordersPhobiasPost-traumatic stressSelf-harmSexual assault and abuseSocial anxiety and phobiaTraumatic brain injuryWorkplace issuesYoung adult issues

Therapeutic Approach

Client-Centered Therapy Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Mindfulness Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

How much experience does Claudia Smith have?

Claudia Smith has 40 years of professional experience providing therapeutic services.

Is Claudia Smith a licensed therapist?

Yes. Claudia Smith is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). License details: CA LCSW 11171.

In which languages does Claudia Smith provide therapy?

Claudia Smith provides therapy in English.

Where is Claudia Smith located?

Claudia Smith is located in California.

How can I work with Claudia Smith as my therapist?

Clients can work with Claudia Smith through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Claudia Smith work with international clients?

Yes, Claudia Smith works with international clients.

How much does therapy with Claudia Smith cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as a client’s location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Clients can click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match them with a therapist. Depending on availability, clients can then schedule a first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.

Approaches for Online Growth and Coping

Claudia Smith integrates client-centered therapy and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) into her online practice. Client-centered therapy focuses on creating a supportive, nonjudgmental space where the person’s own goals and strengths guide the work; it is helpful for building self-esteem, clarifying values, and exploring life changes. Dialectical behavior therapy teaches practical skills for managing intense emotions, improving relationships, and tolerating distress - tools that can be useful for impulsivity, mood swings, and high-stress situations.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Claudia works with each person to identify goals, assess what methods fit best, and adjust the plan as progress is made. She emphasizes partnership and respects individual preferences in shaping therapy.

Online sessions offer flexible ways to connect - video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging - so therapy can fit into busy schedules and different life circumstances. These formats make it easier for people to access regular support, practice skills between sessions, and maintain continuity of care even when travel or time constraints arise.

Ready to start therapy with Claudia Smith?

Take the first step toward a better you.