About Me
How I Work
I believe, and research has shown, that for real relief from suffering—whether it be from depression, anxiety, pain, confusion, or addiction—a genuine, caring relationship between the client and the therapist is the single most reliable factor.
My method of treatment is to form and cultivate a sincere and deep emotional connection with the client, so that he or she feels listened to and understood. I have experienced being a son, brother, husband, parent, and grandparent, and can relate to your experiences in a real way. I will be actively engaged in conversation with you, exploring your problems and concerns while finding new solutions. By working together, new thoughts and behaviors will be practiced and then implemented into your life.
My Background
I am a licensed psychotherapist with a private practice in Beverly Hills. I earned my Doctor of Psychology in clinical psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. As a professor, I teach Masters and Doctorate level students preparing them to become clinical psychotherapists. As a clinical supervisor, I supervise clinical interns at a prominent local treatment center. In addition, my background includes working in two highly recognized treatment centers for addiction in the Los Angeles area for 4 years, and completing a 3-year internship utilizing psychodynamic methods for individuals and couples. I have presented lectures on substance abuse treatment motivation at various centers in the greater Los Angeles area—and motivation applies to all of us contemplating any form of help or change.
My work has also included helping corporations focus on their relationships with other companies. Here, I focused on the ways people in companies relate to each other, helping them see their deficiencies and unproductive communications, and helping them reset goals for greater harmony and success.
My Personal Philosophy Statement
My prime focus in therapy is to help someone find and be their true Self. Yes I know, we have heard that many times before! But what does it mean? It means looking at beliefs and behaviors that were placed upon you by parents, family, friends and society. These beliefs and behaviors have become consciously or unconsciously integrated into your false self—the self you think you are supposed to be by other people’s standards. To find the true Self means becoming aware of what is working for you and what is not, and changing the latter so your life is more in harmony with who you are truly meant to be.
I see therapy as an opportunity to replace old, ineffective beliefs and behaviors with new, life-affirming beliefs and more constructive ways of interacting in your relationships. Therapy can help you develop the ability to tolerate life’s pains, and the freedom to embrace and savor life’s pleasures. The final result is what I think we all want as human beings: to feel good about yourself, to thoroughly enjoy yourself, and to have satisfying and meaningful relationships with others.
I see my role as an ally and guide on your journey. I have made my own journey of self-exploration, and I am continuously on that voyage. I can offer support and encouragement when the going is rough, and I can also share in your pleasures and joys in living. I can help with identifying and working through obstacles, and I will work with you to increase your sense of internal harmony, to enhance your ability to relate to others honestly, openly, and deeply, and to help you feel more productive, alive, and joyful in everyday living. Together, we will set the goals, and I’ll help you get there.
"I believe it is important to improve our lives, if not only for ourselves but for the ones we love."
Darrel J. Smith, PsyD LMFT
License #93539
Licenses, Certifications, Memberships, Associations
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Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist: California
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Adjunct Professor: The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
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Clinical Supervisor: The Maple Counseling Center, Beverly Hills CA
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Member: American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy
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Member: California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
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Member: The Maple Counseling Center Alumni, Beverly Hills
We cannot solve our problems with the same level of thinking we used when we created them."
...Albert Einstein