Jerry Smith, LCSW, CSW

Jerry Smith is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in Georgia who brings 38 years of experience to therapy. He uses a client-centered approach to meet people where they are and help them set goals they actually want to pursue. He also draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques when useful to address thoughts and behaviors that get in the way of change.

He has worked across many settings, including psychiatric hospitals, outpatient mental health clinics, alcohol and drug programs, jails and penitentiaries, and assisted living facilities. That breadth of work means he has seen a wide range of challenges, from addiction and severe mood disorders to grief and relationship difficulties.

In sessions he focuses on identifying stuck points and practical next steps. He often suggests homework between meetings because he believes practice outside the room helps progress. Therapy is collaborative - the person sets the goals and he helps map a course to reach them.

Areas he commonly addresses include stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, addictions, relationship and family concerns, parenting, sleep and eating issues, anger, self-esteem, career stress, grief, and coping with life changes. He also lists additional focuses such as blended family issues, fatherhood concerns, and aging and geriatric matters.

He has taught psychology as an adjunct professor for twelve years and has long experience with foster-care families and people who have developmental disabilities. Jerry uses straightforward language in sessions and aims to create work that fits into everyday life.

How client-centered work and CBT translate to online therapy

Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening closely and following the person's lead. The therapist aims to understand each person's experience and help them name goals they want to reach. This approach is helpful for building trust and deciding practical next steps.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) looks at the links between thoughts, feelings, and actions and uses simple exercises to test and change patterns that cause distress. CBT techniques can help with anxiety, depression, sleep and eating issues, and problems with daily routines.

Finding the right approach is part of the process. The therapist will work collaboratively to decide whether Client-Centered work, CBT, or a mix fits best for the client's needs, goals, and preferences. That decision is revisited as progress is made.

Confirm the available session options before booking, since specific formats are not listed in the profile. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions around work, caregiving, or travel, and can reduce time spent commuting. Some formats also allow shorter check-ins or sessions without video when a quieter or lower-bandwidth option is helpful. Licensed professionals can tailor pacing and homework to suit each person's routine.