A Conversation with Mackenzie Smith

High-quality counselling should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. At Lynn Valley Counselling, we offer a team of professional, empathetic student counsellors under the guidance of an approved supervisor and the clinical director. 

Mackenzie Smith is a student counsellor currently pursuing her Master of Counselling Degree at City University of Seattle. She is also working toward certification in Somatic Experiencing. Mackenzie is deeply committed to supporting clients with a variety of concerns such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues and relational issues.

What inspired you to pursue a career in counselling?

Counselling always felt like something I wanted to do – to sit with people in distress and locate the resilience already present. I wanted to offer a hand for coping tools, as well as a calm and safe place to unearth things and hold a way out of the harder times. I meandered a lot to get to the end of this Master’s degree. I feel like I am in the right place in my life to become an RCC.

Which aspects of your practice ignite your passion the most?

My main areas of interest are anxiety and stress management, depression, mood disorders, grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues and difficult family dynamics.

How would you describe your guiding principles and methodology in your practice?  

I use a strength-based, person-centered, trauma-informed approach in my practice. I am interested in somatic therapies, parts work, and mindfulness as ways to explore emotion.

Tell us a little bit about what you like to do when you’re off the clock!

Outside of work, I like to write short fiction, read, take my dog up into the mountains, hang out with family and friends and get to the lovely Gulf Islands when I can escape!

If you’re seeking low-cost counselling services, schedule an appointment with Max today to explore your options.