Hilda Smits
LPC | Licensed Professional Counselor
“What’s wrong with knowing what you know now and not knowing what you don’t know until later?”, Winnie the Pooh. As a therapist, I share Pooh’s inquisitive spirit and love for the forest. I am curious about my clients, about getting to know them. Human relationships are by nature dynamic and can be complex, and these are the very things that draw me to therapy. Being person centered is important to me, which means meeting you where you are “at” and creating a safe space by showing unconditional positive regard. I am authentic in my relationships and can be direct. I am growth and insight oriented and like to learn from and with my clients.
I am interested in all things human and have experience in working with trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and relationship difficulties. My special interests are anxiety, loss, and trauma and I completed trainings in EMDR, CBT for Anxiety, and Mindfulness.
A little bit about myself and my training. Originally from South Africa, I graduated from Vanderbilt University in 2016. My training was in Human Development Counseling with a focus on early childhood development and attachment. Prior to completing my graduate degree, I lived and traveled abroad, had a variety of interesting and not so interesting jobs, met people from different walks of life, and always felt destined to return to school to become a therapist. In my free time I enjoy creative writing, running, and spending as much time as I can with my toddler.
Embarking on therapy can be a daunting experience, as can finding the right therapist. Please feel free to reach out to see whether or not we may be a good fit.
Thank you for your time!
I accept Aetna, Cigna, Highmark, Quest, & United/Optum Insurances.
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