Dr. Sonia Smith

Therapeutic approaches and online support for families

Dr. Smith commonly uses Client-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy when working with parents and families. Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening closely and letting each person’s experience guide the work, which helps build trust and better communication within a family. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy looks at thoughts and behaviors that keep problems going and teaches concrete skills to reduce anxiety, manage mood, and change unhelpful patterns.

She also draws on Motivational Interviewing to help people find their own reasons for change. That approach is useful when a parent or family member feels stuck or unsure about taking steps toward healthier routines. Together, the approaches allow practical goal-setting alongside steady support and problem solving.

Finding the right approach is part of the process. The therapist will work collaboratively with the family to choose methods that match needs, goals, and preferences. Sessions typically begin with listening and an agreed plan so families know what to try between meetings.

Online therapy offers flexibility for busy families. Video calls let people have face-to-face conversations from home, phone sessions remove travel time, and live chat or text-based messaging can be used for brief check-ins or when steady access is needed. These options make it easier to fit therapy into family schedules while using the clinical approaches described above.