Mykayla Smith

16844
Accepting Clients

Hello and welcome! :) My name is Mykayla and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based out of San Diego, CA.

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California

Services
  • Individual
  • Adolescent/Teen

About My Clients

I specialize in working with teens as they navigate the challenges of growing up, identity development, relationships, and mental health. My professional background includes experience in school-based counseling, child and family services, and community behavioral health work with adults. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where teens feel heard, understood, and empowered. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to each person’s unique needs.

My Background and Approach

My approach to therapy is person-centered, warm, and often infused with humor to help clients feel at ease and comfortable being themselves. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for meaningful growth, so I focus on creating a space where clients feel genuinely understood. I incorporate writing and narrative therapy to help you explore and reshape the stories they tell about yourself and experiences, and to support in building psychological flexibility and aligning actions with values. Through evidence-based techniques, I encourage you to move beyond just talking about change and instead actively practice new skills and perspectives in session.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

While I specialize in therapy with adolescent and teens, my clinical experience extends to all ages. My path to becoming a therapist has been shaped by a deep commitment to service and inclusion. Before entering the mental health field, I served in the Peace Corps, an experience that profoundly influenced my worldview and strengthened my belief in the power of community, cultural humility, and compassion. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I understand how identity, belonging, and safety can impact mental health. I am passionate about creating a space where people of all identities feel seen, respected, and supported. My practice is grounded in affirming care for LGBTQ+ individuals. Whether you are navigating identity, relationships, life transitions, or healing from difficult experiences, my goal is to offer a compassionate and collaborative space where you can explore your story and move toward the life you want to create.

Techniques I Use

Specialties
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Narrative Therapy
Other Techniques
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Experiential Therapy
  • Narrative Therapy
  • Solution Focused Brief Therapy

Issues I Treat

Specialties
Anxiety Relationship Issues Teen Issues
Other Issues
  • Anxiety
  • Career Counseling
  • Depression
  • Family Conflict
  • Relationship Issues
  • Teen Issues
Insurance Plans Accepted
  • Aetna
  • Blue Cross of California
  • Cigna
  • Blue Shield of California
  • Carelon Behavioral Health Plan
  • Quest Behavioral Health
  • Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey
I offer online counseling in the following states:

At A Glance

  • Experience: 6 years of practice
  • Languages: English
  • Rate: $95 - 150/session

Reach out to Mykayla