Ann C. Smith MA, LCMFT Telephone: (913) 345-9333 ext. 103

LICENSURE
Ann is a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist in Kansas, as well as a National Board Certified Counselor. She has been counseling in Kansas City since 1987 both as an in-patient case manager and in private practice.

BACKGROUND
Ann obtained her Masters in Biblical Counseling from Grace Theological Seminary in 1985, where she studied with Dr. Larry Crabb and Dr. Dan Allender. Post-graduate studies were completed at Avila University to obtain Kansas licensure. Ann is a charter member of the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC).

AREAS OF INTEREST
She works with individuals, both male and female, including adolescents, and with couples and families as the need arises. Her areas of interest are life transition, grief and loss, depression, anxiety and panic disorders, gender identity and posttraumatic stress recovery. She focuses on the application of spiritual truth and psychological principles for an integrated approach to self and others.

PROCESS
Typically the initial interview will involve a recounting of the presenting need, and a personal and family history. Clients will identify their own goals and means of measuring personal growth. The process of change is rewarding but stretching. Therapy will often be the hardest work the client has done, but has the potential for great satisfaction and benefit. In addition to time spent in sessions, that work may involve journaling, reading, other expressive activities, and talking with family members or involved parties. When one is in the process of change, other activities may take a much lesser role for a season. Clients usually consider this a small price for the overall benefit received.