How I workSteven Smith, LPCC-S
Existential & Buddhist Psychotherapy
Steven Smith, LPCC-SFounder & Supervising CounselorMon–Thu 10–6; occasional 6 pm or Friday sessions, case by caseIn person at the Florence office; online appointments case by case for eligible Kentucky and Ohio clients.Insurance: Fees & Insurance$150 self-payGood Faith EstimateAccepting new clients
Some people find themselves struggling with the fundamental situation of human existence. There are no easy and clean solutions to being human. For those plagued with a questioning spirit, the road is long and often obscured. A guide along the way can be a great benefit. To address these issues I utilize an approach that could be described as Existential, Buddhist or Contemplative Psychotherapy.
How I work
This work involves exploring and confronting the fundamental elements of being human and learning how to work with those constraints so as to reduce unnecessary suffering and develop a life that is more engaged and vital.
While conceptual analysis is a part of the work, the real heart of it involves learning to witness and stay in relation to the whole of one's existence: the good, the bad, and the ugly.
This is not only an intellectual pursuit but also a journey of the human heart.
Not every session will be digging deep, but a willingness to look beneath the surface and beyond behavior is essential.
This work is a good fit for a restless spirit who wants to explore and understand their fundamental situation.
These are usually people who are dissatisfied with the solutions that have been offered to them, especially by authority.
It is not for everyone and one is not special for seeking it.
But you are probably a bit weird.
The Buddhist part
Some would argue that there is no such thing as a Buddhist. It is more of a philosophy that encourages radical acceptance of being as the way to find freedom from unnecessary suffering. Meditation is commonly associated with Buddhism and it is valuable. Outside of basic meditation instruction requested by a client, sessions will not generally include a "meditation session". That's best for home when you're not paying for the time. I will often ask a client to stop and pay attention to a sensation, biological process, or emotion as a mode of inquiry. That is different from formal meditation.
I began studying Buddhism in high school in the early 90's and have deepened my ability to practice its principles for 30+ years. I am still a beginner. It often takes 30 years to understand that.
Insurance
Insurance will pay for treatment of mental health problems, not specifically "self-improvement".
Depending on your situation, this may or may not be an appropriate fit for insurance billing. Those situations require self-pay.
I will help you figure out if it is a good fit.