It’s my goal to build on your strengths and resources in the supervision process to support you in becoming a more effective clinician.

If you’re looking for an American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) Approved Supervisor or Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) Qualified Supervisor, first I want to say well done!

I know the journey to get here was long and arduous because I went on it myself. I want you to hear me when I tell you I’m proud of the effort you’ve already made.

Second, why choose me? That’s up to you of course, but below you’ll learn a little more about me.

Areas I particularly like to focus on are diversity, practical application, self-care, and spirituality, so if those matter to you as well, please reach out.

Supervision for LMFT in Raleigh NC - Online throughout North Carolina
Puzzle pieces fitting together over a sunset on the beach for supervision for LMFT and LCMHCA

In our time together as supervisor and supervisee, I will use the “Discrimination Model,” which takes on different roles (educator, consultant, and counselor) at various times according to what fits you best.

I use a “Solution-Focused Approach,” which is future-oriented and emphasizes finding solutions rather than attending only to problems.

The approach is grounded in the premise that language shapes reality, creates meaning, and produces your perception of the world.

If you’re a licensed therapist and interested in consulting about cases, I’d love to chat. I know it can feel isolating sometimes to not have anyone to bounce ideas off of. I can be that person for you.

Also, as someone who has her own business, I can consult with you about how to start a private therapy practice. Reach out to me and let’s see if we’re a good fit.

I apply the following assumptions in our time together:

Rather than being didactic, I aid you to work independently and make changes as you see fit.

We work collaboratively to lessen any resistance.

I focus on your strengths rather than your faults.

I move toward small changes with you and we craft realistic goals.

I accept there is no “one” correct way to understand or intervene in the therapeutic process.

I take on a “consultant’s” role and use questions to guide our interactions.

You don’t have to take my word for it…

My experience with Portia as a supervisor supported my growth as a professional. I appreciated Portia’s creative approach to supervision. She facilitated both flexible and structured support, she was easy to communicate with and available with difficult cases. One of my favorite exercises we did was on  self-care where she helped me to consider good self-care as a counselor.

B.J.

Dr. Smith, thank you so much for the knowledge and guidance you have provided me through supervision. You truly have the talent to work with Clinicians to find their way in the profession. I can’t say enough good things about our supervision. Thank you for believing in me and helping me to improve my self-confidence.  You helped me take the information I learned in school and use it in the real world. You taught me the importance of self-care. I feel more confident in my approach and appreciate all of your feedback.

J.S.

Dr. Smith is a true example of what it means to care about others and practice therapy with sincere compassion. She was always willing to share about her own clinical challenges with much poise and integrity, which taught me how to overcome similar situations. She made herself available to help me practice and use my clinical skills with confidence. During our clinical supervision time, she reviewed and discussed complex case scenarios with me and answered any questions that I had, while giving me the autonomy to direct my own learning experiences. She fueled my eagerness to learn more about the profession and inspired me to continue my journey as a lifelong learner. Thank you, Dr, Smith!

K.N.

Dr. Smith has been a great supervisor. I know I can go to her with anything, and she will listen and validate my thoughts. She is supportive but she also challenges me to think outside the box and to see other perspectives. I truly know she wants what best for me as a therapist but also as a person. I always know I can go to her with anything, and she will be there to support, listen, and give her thoughts. I have learned so much from her over the years and I am grateful for her supervision!

E.B.

Dr. Smith taught me while in my graduate MFT program and is still guiding me in supervision. I sought her to continue supervision after my program because of her wealth of knowledge about our craft and extensive experience in several therapist career types; but most importantly because she CARES. She cares for her clients, and she cares for you as a supervisee.

T.C.