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- Stress and anxiety
- Relationships and Gottman
- CBT and ACT methods
About David
LMHC David Smith has 25 years of clinical experience and practices in Iowa. He focuses on stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, anger, depression, and coping with life changes. He also addresses issues such as aging and geriatric concerns, attachment and codependency, communication and commitment problems, and struggles related to family of origin and fatherhood.
David uses a mix of approaches so sessions are adaptable to what a person needs. He names Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, client-centered work, cognitive behavioral techniques, existential questions, and the Gottman Method among the methods he draws on. Sessions tend to be pragmatic and action-oriented, with an emphasis on finding ways to change thinking and behavior that are creating problems.
In meetings he prioritizes straightforward assessment of what is holding a person back. He helps identify specific patterns - for example control issues, guilt and shame, or problems that follow divorce and separation - and then works on alternatives. He describes the work as collaborative and checks in regularly on progress and fit.
He also brings experience with substance-related problems, first responder issues, forgiveness work, and feelings of emptiness. The practice supports people dealing with grief around life changes and the stresses of parenting or fatherhood roles.
Sessions are offered in English and international clients are accepted. David holds the LMHC credential for Iowa and asks prospective clients to use the See online therapy options button to complete a short matching questionnaire before scheduling a first session.
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How these approaches are used in online work
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on clarifying values and using mindful action steps to reduce the impact of painful thoughts and feelings. It can help when anxiety, depression, or avoidance keep someone from living in line with what matters to them.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) looks at the links between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and teaches practical skills to change unhelpful patterns. It is commonly used for anxiety, stress, anger, and depression because it targets specific thinking and behavior habits.
The Gottman Method concentrates on communication and interaction patterns in intimate relationships. It provides concrete exercises to improve conflict management and emotional connection for people working on relationship challenges.
David will work with each person to find the best mix of approaches for their goals. He frames this as a collaborative process where the therapist and client decide together what methods to try and adjust based on what is helping.
The biography does not specify session formats, so please confirm the available session options before booking. Online work can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy life - for example a shorter check-in during a work break, or sessions that avoid travel time. It can also allow focus on practical exercises and behavioral tasks between sessions to support change.
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Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
25+ years
Listed in
Iowa
Languages
English
Sheet 4
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does he focus on?
He focuses on stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, anger, depression, and coping with life changes. Additional focus areas include attachment, codependency, family problems, substance issues, and aging concerns.
What is his general therapeutic style?
He describes his style as pragmatic and action-oriented while using a mix of approaches. He emphasizes collaborative work and regular check-ins about progress.
How much experience does he have?
He has 25 years of professional experience in clinical practice.
What are his credentials and where is he based?
He holds the LMHC credential in Iowa and practices under that credential within the state.
Which languages are sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English, and he accepts international clients.
What session formats are available?
The original biography does not list specific session formats. Please confirm current session options before booking.
How is cost handled?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I get started with him?
Begin by selecting the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and then schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the urgent help numbers.