Liz Smith , LLMSW

Liz has a person-centered, strengths-based, and solution-oriented approach. This means she recognizes that one size does not fit all when it comes to therapy. Everyone has their own unique problems and their own strengths. Utilizing techniques including brief negotiated interviewing, CBT, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques, Liz works with the client to help them develop tools they will have with always them. Certified in CCAR (recovery coach training), along with professional experience in this area, she has an understanding of the addiction experience and works with the client on an individualized plan for success. Liz also understands how devastating anxiety can be and works with clients to develop powerful tools that will minimize the effect anxiety has on their daily lives. With her background in working on multidisciplinary teams with law enforcement on open investigations throughout the state, alongside law enforcement from sheriff’s departments, local police agencies, state police departments, and more, Liz has an understanding of what first responders experience and the emotional toll it can take. She combines this understanding with a person-centered approach and therapeutic techniques to work on solutions. In addition, Liz’s background of working with the bereaved in a supportive therapy capacity strengthens Liz’s understanding of the journey of grief.

Liz earned a Bachelor of Arts from Michigan State University with majors in both pre-law and psychology. She earned a Master of Science from Michigan State University in criminal justice, with an emphasis on police. Liz earned a Master of Social work from Springfield University with a clinical curriculum. She has completed in person graduate courses at the University of Queensland in Australia and completed an in-person three-month academy for private investigators in Brisbane, Australia.

Liz has experience working with those suffering from addiction in the emergency department of a trauma-one hospital, as well as experience providing supportive therapy, CBT, and more, to those suffering from addictions and anxiety in the behavioral health unit. She has worked with those experiencing the dying process as well as with those suffering loss and grief when left behind. Liz has extensive experience working as part of investigative teams on open law enforcement investigations with first responders and other law enforcement personnel from local law enforcement agencies throughout Michigan, including sheriff’s departments, state police posts, and federal agencies. She also has experience in Los Angeles, California, and Michigan working as a private investigator, and as a tracker (of people) in the Boston area. These experiences, along with the experience of living for a year each in Australia, Germany, and

Ireland have provided Liz with a broad world view and a better understanding of different perspectives.

• Addictions, (Substances and gambling)
• Anxiety and panic disorders
• Coping skills development
• Expanding personal strengths and building resilience
• First responder trauma
• Goal attainment
• Grief and loss
• Law Enforcement related stress
• Legal stress support
• Self-esteem/empowerment building