We recently connected with Mika Smith and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Mika thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about the things you feel your parents did right and how those things have impacted your career and life.

What didn’t my parents do right? I could go on forever about how lucky I am to have been raised by my mom and dad, but I’ll highlight a few things that stick out the most. My parents never pushed me to follow in their footsteps, pursue a certain career path, or fit into a box. They wholeheartedly encouraged me to think for myself, explore my passions, and appreciate my uniqueness. They have always shown genuine interest and curiosity in knowing me as a person. When I was growing up my parents identified as opposites on the political spectrum (which most people find horrifying) and somehow managed to create a safe space for frequent respectful and healthy discourse. This contributed greatly to my ability to examine and adapt my own beliefs and opinions and to remain open-minded to those of others.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m a licensed clinical social worker practicing primarily individual psychotherapy with a specialty in treating PTSD, OCD, and members of the LGBTQ+ community with a passion for those in transition. I’ve been working in mental health for almost 10 years, starting out in inpatient psychiatric hospitals and now working in a private practice which I co-own – Dallas Therapeutic Services. We provide individual, couples, family, and group therapy services for children and adults of all ages, with therapists specializing in many different areas. We also provide psychological testing services. I absolutely love what I do. Witnessing change in my clients is incredibly fulfilling and inspiring, and running a small business is challenging and empowering.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

Self-awareness! One of the main indicators of successful therapy outcomes is the quality of the therapeutic alliance, in other words how well the therapist and the client connect and work together. In order for a client to feel safe and trusting in therapy, the therapist must create an environment of non-judgment, acceptance, and openness. Being willing and able to self-reflect and identify when one’s own values differ from those of their clients (but not allow that difference to influence their clinical decision-making) is critical in laying the foundation of safety and non-judgment.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Staying in my lane, so to speak. Rather than attempt to know all the things about treating all the issues, I focus my practice on three specific areas in which I have extensive experience, training, and knowledge – OCD, PTSD, and LGBTQ+ affirming therapy. Honing in on a specialty garners increased competence, and I’m better able to provide quality therapy to my clients who pass the word along to others in need of assistance in those areas. Or maybe it has more to do with my esteemed colleague/therapy dog, Bentley – an adorable miniature dachshund.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.dallastherapeutic.com/mika-smith
• Instagram: @dallastherapeuticservices
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mika-smith-lcsw-s-lcdc-a6239b105