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Maria Smartt

Maria Smartt

LMSW, LISW

Michigan

Compassionate social worker focused on motivation

Continue with Maria

At a glance

Credentials
LMSW, LISW
License
LISW, Ohio / I.1801287; LMSW, Michigan / 6801110452
Experience
11 years
Languages
English
Location
Michigan

Details come from information the therapist supplied to BetterHelp. A license can be checked with the state board.

    • Motivational Interviewing informed
    • Client-centered approach
    • Practical behavior strategies

    About Maria

    Maria Smartt is an independently licensed social worker practicing in Michigan and Ohio. She holds LMSW and LISW credentials and brings 11 years of professional experience to her work. Maria focuses on meeting people where they are and offers steady, respectful support as they take steps toward change.

    She helps with stress and anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, issues around parenting and adoption, and concerns about self-esteem and motivation. She also addresses addictions, relationship and family tension, anger, and matters affecting LGBT individuals and veterans. The approach is practical and tailored to each person’s situation.

    In sessions Maria listens first and then adapts the conversation to what matters most to the client. She uses client-centered methods to follow the client’s pace and preferences. When helpful, she draws on cognitive behavioral strategies to tackle unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns.

    Motivational Interviewing is part of how she explores readiness for change and supports motivation without pressure. Maria aims to build small, doable steps that fit a person’s life and goals. She emphasizes respect, clear collaboration, and concrete next steps in each meeting.

    People who prefer a direct but compassionate style often find her practical. She works to make the path forward understandable and manageable. To begin, clients choose a Start Therapy button and complete a short matching questionnaire before scheduling.

  2. How these approaches translate to online work

    Maria uses Motivational Interviewing to help people clarify what they want to change and to build their own reasons for taking steps forward. That approach focuses on listening, asking questions that draw out motivation, and avoiding pressure.

    She also practices Client-Centered Therapy, which means sessions follow the client’s concerns and pace. The therapist offers reflection and acceptance to help people make sense of their experience. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, when used, targets specific thoughts and behaviors and offers concrete exercises to try between meetings.

    Choosing the best approach is a shared process. Maria will talk with the client about their goals, preferences, and what has or hasn’t helped before. Together they decide which methods to emphasize and adjust the plan as progress is made.

    If you are considering online sessions, confirm the current session options before booking. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy life, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. Some formats use less bandwidth or do not require being on camera, which can help people stick with regular meetings.

  4. Areas of expertise

    Primary focus

    Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression

    Also works with

    AddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger management

    Additional focus areas

    Adoption and foster careVeteran and Armed Forces Issues

    Therapeutic approaches

    Client-Centered TherapyCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)Motivational Interviewing

    Experience

    11+ years

    Listed in

    Ohio, Michigan

    Languages

    English

  5. Frequently asked questions

    What kinds of concerns does she address?

    Maria works with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, parenting and adoption issues, self-esteem, motivation, addictions, relationship and family tension, anger, and LGBT and veteran-related concerns.

    How would you describe her therapeutic style?

    She uses a client-centered style that follows the person’s pace and priorities, with clear, practical support and collaborative goal setting.

    What is her professional background?

    She has 11 years of professional experience working in social work roles and helping people with a range of emotional and life challenges.

    What credentials and location are listed?

    She holds LMSW and LISW credentials and practices in Michigan with professional ties to Ohio.

    Which languages are used in sessions?

    Sessions are offered in English.

    Can international clients work with her?

    International clients are not currently accepted.

    How are sessions priced and billed?

    Cost varies by location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.

    What do I do to begin working together?

    Click the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule according to the therapist’s availability.

  6. Online talk therapy is not emergency or medical care. Stopping or cutting down alcohol or other drugs can be unsafe without medical advice. In immediate danger? Crisis numbers

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