Find a Therapist in California KT

Hello, my name is Keshira Smith (pronounced Key-Shy-Rah) and I am an associate professional clinical counselor (APCC). I am also a certified alcohol and drug counselor III (CADCIII). I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2019 and I earned my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling in 2024. From the very beginning I knew that I wanted to provide therapy to individuals who struggle with mental health and substance use disorders. I have had the honor of working with adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and families who are navigating trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, substance use, suicide ideation, PTSD, and phases of life changes. As a mental health therapist, it is my goal to help individuals overcome their struggles with their mental health by providing a safe space and support to help start the healing process.

I am aware and conscious of the systematic issues that can be a barrier to individuals, couples,

and families receiving the care that they need. In certain communities, mental health is

stigmatized and it is important for me to normalize mental health in my community. I want my

patients to know and understand that it is okay to ask for help and it is nothing to be ashamed of if you admit something may be wrong. I want my patients to learn to love and embrace

themselves and learn how to cope appropriately.

My philosophy of counseling is that we are all unique individuals who come from different

cultural backgrounds and walks of life. We all view the world differently and have different

perspectives of how we should be or how we should act. My ultimate goal is to provide my

patients with support and guidance to help address their issues and concerns that are affecting

them physically, mentally, and emotionally rather in individual, family, couples, and or in group

therapy. My goal is to help my patients gain the understanding and knowledge to help them

identify and discuss why they may be experiencing the challenges they are facing. It is my goal

to help my patients establish goals and a way of action to help with meeting those goals.

My approach is person centered, educational, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral

therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy. It is important for me to build rapport and establish a healthy human connection with my patients. Establishing and building rapport is important to the therapeutic relationship because it helps builds trust between me and my patients. I want my patients to feel comfortable, safe, and secure when they are sharing things that they have never shared before.

My therapeutic approaches provide my patients with empathy and support. I utilize these

modalities in various ways to help my patients meet their goals. One approach does not fit every patient and I will use these modalities and find what works best for each individual patient.

I am excited that you have taken the first step in your mental health journey. I am here to provide you with compassion, empathy, and support to help you with meeting your mental health goals. I am looking forward to working with you throughout your mental health journey.

Hi, I’m Ja' Nae Perkins and welcome to the Center!

I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges, and I am excited to work alongside you on your journey toward healing and growth. My goal is to create a warm,

supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you feel heard and empowered.

I specialize in working with transitional aged youth (18-24), families, couples, children, elderly, and adults who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, self-esteem concerns, stress, and/or relationship challenges. No matter where you are on your path, I am here to help guide you toward greater clarity and resilience in your life.

I believe that healing begins with understanding and acceptance. I incorporate therapeutic

models such as Motivational Interviewing, Restorative Practices, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Therapy, and Narrative Therapy to support clients in gaining insight into their emotions, behaviors, and thought patterns. Through our work together, I aim to equip you with tools that foster self-awareness, emotional regulation, and lasting change.

I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from Simmons University and have 8 years of

experience in case management and mental health care. When I’m not working with clients, I enjoy roller-skating, dancing, binge-watching movies and TV shows, and spending quality time

with family and friends. These activities all help me stay grounded and refreshed. I truly love

what I do and consider it an honor to walk alongside individuals as they navigate life's ups and downs.

I became a social worker because your life is worth my time.