Kendra Smith
PhD • Therapist and Counselor Educator
About
With over two decades of experience in therapy and counselor education, Kendra Smith, PhD, brings a unique blend of expertise to her practice, particularly in culturally affirmative therapy for the Deaf and hard of hearing community. As a bilingual therapist fluent in English and American Sign Language, Dr. Smith has dedicated her career to bridging communication gaps and providing compassionate support to a diverse clientele.
Dr. Smith's educational background is as impressive as it is interdisciplinary. She holds a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling and a PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies, which inform her holistic approach to therapy. Her specialized training extends to Multichannel Eye Movement Integration, mindfulness techniques, clinical supervision, and distance-based counseling, allowing her to offer a comprehensive toolkit to address various mental health needs.
One of Dr. Smith's core specialties lies in culturally affirmative therapy for Deaf and hard of hearing individuals. Her extensive experience with the Deaf community and deep familiarity with Deaf culture enable her to provide nuanced support for life transitions, trauma recovery, and relationship challenges within this often underserved population. This unique expertise sets her apart in the field of mental health.
Beyond her work with the Deaf community, Dr. Smith offers expert guidance in several key areas. She assists clients in cultivating healthy relationships, whether in parenting, friendships, romantic partnerships, or intergenerational connections. Her approach to anxiety and trauma is both empathetic and pragmatic, offering concrete healing strategies and fostering hope for those who may feel stuck in cycles of worry or past experiences. Additionally, Dr. Smith provides valuable support to parents of trans and gender-expansive individuals, helping them navigate the complexities of affirming their children while processing their own emotions.
Licensed in both DC and Maryland, Dr. Smith brings a wealth of professional experience to her practice. Her approach is characterized by a blend of evidence-based techniques and a deep commitment to individual client needs. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, she tailors her methods to provide the most effective support possible.
Dr. Smith's identity as a white, non-binary individual (using she/her or they/them pronouns) further informs her inclusive and affirming approach to therapy. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys fiber arts, exploring thrift stores, reading, and spending time with her pets, reflecting a well-rounded individual who brings both professional expertise and personal authenticity to her therapeutic relationships.
Qualifications
Education
- Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling
- Doctor of Philosophy in Interdisciplinary Studies
Certifications, Memberships & Training
- Specialized Training in Multichannel Eye Movement Integration
- Specialized Training in Mindfulness
- Specialized Training in Clinical Supervision
- Specialized Training in Distance-based Counseling
State Licenses
- Licensed Therapist, DC
- Licensed Therapist, MD
Specialties & Expertise
Specializations
- Anxiety
- Gender Dysphoria
- Parenting
- Trauma
State Licenses
- Maryland
Race, Gender & Sexual Sensitivities
- LGBTQ+ Allied
- Non-Binary Allied
- Transgender Allied
Reviews
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Locations
Reclaim & Rise Therapy - Clipper Mill
3600 Clipper Mill Rd, Ste 221
Baltimore, MD 21211