About

Hi there, I'm Ariane! Hi, my name is Ariane Willis-Smith and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) operating out of San Diego, California and utilizing a telehealth platform. I work with a wide range of ages, from young adults to middle-aged, specializing in anxiety, stress, relationship and work difficulties utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy to help improve overall feeling and functioning. My approach My approach to therapy is customized with the needs of my client in mind, however, there are some common approaches which include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Solution Focused Therapy. I believe these 3 approaches can help empower a person to make lasting changes and coupled with our collaboration; acquire the skills to not just help the problems of today, but also challenges in the future. My focus While I do work with a diverse population, I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for young adults to middle-aged individuals who are managing the challenges of life transitions, parenting, relationships, and work struggles leading to anxiety, depression, overwhelm, and burnout. I work collaboratively with my clients to find solutions that are right for them and sustainable skills to improve overall functioning, self-care, communication, and mood. My communication style My communication style is approachable, personable, and non-judgmental. My goal is for clients to feel comfortable bringing any challenges or successes to the session no matter how big or small. I pride myself on authenticity and seek to ensure my clients feel that with each session. My journey to mental healthcare I became a therapist because I have been the one to need someone before, I have experienced loss, relationship challenges, parenting struggles, and work frustration. I have been through tough times and benefitted from hearing someone say, “That is tough, but so are you”.