Emily Smith

LISW • Licensed Independent Social Worker

In-person only

About

Embracing the power of mindfulness and compassion, Emily Smith, LISW, offers a unique blend of evidence-based therapies to guide adults through life's challenges. As a licensed independent social worker and certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction™ (MBSR) instructor, Emily brings a wealth of experience and specialized training to her practice at Prairie Wellness.

Emily's therapeutic approach is rooted in holistic care, focusing on adults aged 25 and older who are grappling with anxiety disorders, chronic stress, perfectionism, self-criticism, controlling behavior, and relationship issues. She skillfully employs a triad of powerful modalities: Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This integrative approach allows her to tailor treatment to each client's unique needs, fostering self-awareness, resilience, and personal growth.

What sets Emily apart is her deep commitment to mindfulness practice, both personally and professionally. She completed her MBSR™ teacher training at the prestigious University of California, San Diego Medical School's Center for Mindfulness, and has participated in additional intensive training with Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D., the founder of MBSR. Emily's dedication to her craft is evident in her daily meditation practice and annual attendance at 10-day silent meditation retreats, where she has studied under renowned teachers such as Joseph Goldstein, Tara Brach, Jack Kornfield, and Sharon Salzberg.

Emily's academic journey began at Iowa State University, where she completed her undergraduate degree. She then pursued her master's degree in social work at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota, building a strong foundation in mental health care. Currently, Emily is furthering her expertise through a rigorous sixteen-month advanced training program, which includes five meditation retreats and biweekly meetings with experienced meditation teachers.

At Prairie Wellness, Emily offers individual therapy sessions and teaches Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction™ classes, along with other mindfulness courses. Her approach is compassionate and holistic, aiming to empower clients with tools to navigate life's transitions and challenges. Whether working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, or seeking to cultivate greater self-compassion, Emily creates a supportive environment where healing and personal growth can flourish.

Emily Smith's unique combination of clinical expertise, extensive mindfulness training, and personal practice makes her an invaluable resource for those seeking to cultivate greater peace, resilience, and well-being in their lives. Through her work, she continues to inspire and guide clients toward a more mindful, compassionate, and fulfilling life journey.

Qualifications

Education

  • Master of Social Work

Certifications, Memberships & Training

  • Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Teacher Training

State Licenses

  • Licensed Independent Social Worker

Specialties & Expertise

Specializations

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Mindfulness training
  • Stress

State Licenses

  • Iowa

Race, Gender & Sexual Sensitivities

  • LGBTQ+ Allied

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Locations

Prairie Wellness - Des Moines Main Office
3209 Ingersoll Ave, 100
Des Moines, IA 50312

Prairie Wellness - Des Moines Suite 112
3209 Ingersoll Ave, Suite 112
Des Moines, IA 50312

Prairie Wellness - Des Moines Suite 207
3209 Ingersoll Ave, UNIT 207
Des Moines, IA 50312

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