MADDIE SMITH | Counseling INTERN
Individual Counseling & Therapy for Teens and Adults | Columbia, MO
My name is Maddie Smith. I’m currently in my last year at Stephen’s College studying for my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
I’m a good fit for you if you…
feel sick and tired of constant anxiety and would like to learn and implement coping strategies;
are exhausted with feeling down or hopeless and want to feel alive and motivated again;
frequently experience symptoms of fight, flight or freeze in social settings;
struggle with self-esteem or body image and want to feel confident in your skin;
feel lost or struggle with negative thoughts;
want to develop healthy boundaries with family, friends, and yourself;
struggle with thoughts racing through your mind and anxiety attacks;
have difficulties with managing stress related to work, school, or personal life;
are dealing with past trauma or unresolved issues that may be returning in your current life;
struggle with saying no without feeling guilt;
have trouble finding inner peace;
want to gain confidence when setting boundaries and self-esteem;
experience difficulties with change and want to learn how to stabilize your internal state during times of uncertainty.
pronouns: she/her
Working With Interns (Blog Highlight)
Maddie Smith speaks about one thing she especially likes to implement in sessions
These are common reasons people come into counseling. These are the reasons people seek help.
More often than not, folks still feel some sort of shame in reaching out. One of the reasons Tara founded The Counseling Hub was to diminish that sense of shame, to normalize the fact that all people struggle in some way during their lives, and to empower people to grow and heal in their own unique way.
The Counseling Hub is all about connecting, healing, and growing.
As a clinician, my role is to facilitate a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors free of judgment. I see myself as a guide, helping you navigate your journey, but not telling you where to go. My approach is collaborative. I emphasize our therapist-client relationship and ensure it’s based on trust, empathy, and respect. My role is not to provide answers, but to ask the right questions, offering support and guidance as you work toward your goals.
Five Fun Facts About Maddie
My dogs are everything to me!
I have two dogs, a blue heeler and a husky. They are my babies. Their favorite show is Dug Days on Disney+. They enjoy playing with toys and swimming. I would have a million dogs if I could! I want to have a farm with all kinds of animals, such as cows, goats, rabbits, horses, chickens–just everything!My music taste is a broad spectrum.
I have seen country, rock, pop, metal, cover bands, and even 80s hair bands in concert. I love all music and am always open to listening to a new artist. A few of my favorite concerts I have seen include Alice in Chains, Green Day, KISS, Justin Bieber, and Florida Georgia Line.I originally wanted to be a cosmetologist.
I love all things hair and makeup. I love keeping up with fashion trends and clothing. I wanted to do it for a living, but I found my calling later in my life to become a mental health counselor.I'm a self-taught cook.
I started learning how to cook a few years ago and have only started one small fire! I think that is quite an accomplishment! I like to think I am much better now.I enjoy trying new hobbies.
Although I may not be good at all of them, I love trying new things. I have tried sewing, archery, golf, drawing, and more. Trying new things is a form of self-care for me. lt is always new and exciting.
Maddie Smith speaks on a self-care practice she likes to recommend
Maddie’s Education and Training
Maddie is currently completing her last year of my Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Stephen's College. She is studying to become a Licensed Professional Counselor. She has an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Missouri, and received two minor degrees in sociology and human developmental family studies. She also has received certificates in multicultural studies and addiction studies.
Maddie is interested in adolescents and teens struggling with self-esteem and personal growth. She enjoys helping clients learn communication techniques and boundary setting. She also enjoys working with people struggling with anxiety and depression and loves to add a creative perspective to the counseling session utilizing crafts and worksheets to promote positive thinking. Finally, Maddie enjoys family dynamics and working with clients struggling with family.