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David Smith

David Smith, LMHC

Iowa

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Licensed Mental Health Counselor - Anger and Relationships

  • ACT and CBT methods
  • Gottman informed work
  • Action focused sessions

About David

David Smith is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Iowa with 25 years of professional experience. He works with adults who are dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship strains, anger, depression, and life transitions. He also addresses related concerns like communication problems, codependency, and issues tied to family of origin.

He uses practical, action-focused methods rather than abstract talk. Sessions aim to identify what keeps someone stuck and then test different ways of thinking and behaving. He often draws on cognitive behavioral ideas, acceptance-based work, and client-centered listening to make changes feel doable.

Couples and individuals can expect straightforward conversation and goal-focused planning. He names problems clearly and helps clients try small steps between sessions. He also brings in elements from the Gottman Method when relationship patterns are a central concern.

Over the years he has worked with people facing aging and geriatric concerns, fatherhood questions, first responder stresses, substance issues, and the fallout from separation or divorce. He mentions attachment and commitment difficulties as common themes he helps people untangle.

David keeps sessions practical and responsive. He checks in regularly about how the work is progressing and invites feedback. That means sessions become a cooperative effort where goals and methods are adjusted as needed.

How his approaches translate to online work

David frequently uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help people notice difficult thoughts and feelings without getting pushed into automatic reactions. ACT focuses on values and small committed actions that move someone toward what matters to them. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is another frequent tool; it looks at the links between thoughts, feelings, and behavior and teaches concrete skills to change unhelpful patterns.

He combines these approaches with client-centered listening so decisions about technique are collaborative. The therapist and client work together to figure out which methods fit best for goals like managing anger, easing anxiety, or improving communication. That fit can change over time and will be checked in on regularly.

The original biography does not list specific online session formats, so confirm current options before booking. Online work can make it easier to schedule shorter check-ins, keep regular momentum between in-person visits, or reduce travel time. For many people, remote sessions help fit therapy into busy days while still allowing skills practice and focused conversations.

Areas of expertise

Primary focus

Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes

Additional focus areas

Aging and geriatric issuesAttachment issuesCodependencyCommitment issuesCommunication problemsControl issuesDivorce and separationDrug and alcohol addictionEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsFatherhood issuesFirst responder issuesForgivenessGuilt and shameInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessLife purposeMen's issuesMidlife crisisMoney and financial issuesMood disordersPanic disorder and panic attacksSelf-loveSex addictionSexualitySocial anxiety and phobiaWorkplace issuesYoung adult issues

Therapeutic approaches

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Existential TherapyGottman MethodJungian TherapyMindfulness TherapyMotivational InterviewingNarrative TherapyPsychodynamic TherapySolution-Focused TherapySystemic Therapy

Experience

25+ years

Listed in

Iowa

Languages

English

Frequently asked questions

What kinds of anger issues does he address?

He works with adults who struggle with losing their temper, building resentment, frustration at work, and living with someone else’s anger.

What is his general therapy style?

He uses a pragmatic, action-oriented approach that mixes acceptance-based ideas, cognitive behavioral techniques, and client-centered listening.

How long has he been practicing?

He has 25 years of professional experience as a counselor and therapist in clinical work.

What credential does he hold and where is he located?

He is an LMHC licensed in Iowa and practices with that credential.

Can I work with him if I live outside the United States?

Sessions are offered to international clients; sessions are provided in English.

Which session formats are available?

The original biography does not list specific session formats. Confirm current session options before booking.

How does cost work for sessions?

Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

What are the first steps to begin working together?

Select the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, then schedule your first session.

Whenever you are ready

Review online therapy options and next steps on BetterHelp, in your own time.

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David SmithLMHC

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