Takyah Smith
Adolescents & Adults Therapist
Pronouns: She/her
Licensure: Provisionally Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Therapist
Location: Rhode Island
Language: English
Fee:
Sliding Scale: Available
Insurance:
Accepting New Clients: Yes
Specialties:
Alcohol Use, Cannabis Use, Smoking / Tobacco Use
Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Depression, Burnout
Anger, Relationships
Self-Esteem / Worth / Compassion, Social Communication
Socioeconomic Inequity, Poverty
Counseling
ABOUT ME
As a dedicated therapist at Phoenix Rising Centers, I bring a unique blend of public health expertise and a passion for mental wellness to my practice. My journey, rooted in my experiences as a first-generation American of Caribbean descent from Miami, has shaped my commitment to serving adolescents, young adults, and middle-aged individuals from diverse backgrounds.
With a Bachelor's in Health Sciences Pre-Clinical and Psychology from the University of Central Florida, a Master's in Public Health from the University of South Florida, and a Master's in Social Work, my academic foundation is as diverse as the communities I serve. My professional health education and promotion background, focusing on marginalized populations, youth, and young adults, informs my holistic approach to mental health care.
I specialize in addressing a wide range of concerns, including alcohol and cannabis use, anger management, anxiety, depression, burnout, and social communication challenges. My practice is deeply rooted in the principles of Black Liberation, Decolonization, and Disability Justice, reflecting both my professional interests and lived experiences.
My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing with somatic therapy techniques. I'm particularly passionate about tackling socioeconomic inequity, poverty, and self-esteem issues, while always considering the interplay between individuals, environments, power structures, and societal norms.
As an advocate for expanding representation in mental health services, I strive to create a safe, inclusive, and culturally affirming space for racial and ethnic minorities. My work is informed by an ecological viewpoint, drawing on my diverse academic and professional backgrounds in public health and social work.
Whether you're struggling with relationship issues, battling addiction, or seeking support in overcoming systemic barriers, I'm here to provide compassionate, culturally competent care. Together, we'll work towards not just personal transformation but also contribute to the larger mission of dismantling oppressive systems and promoting mental health equity for all.
Outside of my professional life, I enjoy traveling, exploring new cuisines, spending time with family and friends, photography, and watching movies. These experiences enrich my perspective and allow me to connect more deeply with the diverse individuals I serve.
Her professional growth and clinical practice are under the direct supervision and guidance of Kayley Harrington, a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW).
Why I Do This Work
“I chose this work because I have seen how healing deepens when it is rooted in culture, language, and lived experience. My passion is in creating safe spaces for people whose stories and identities may not have always been honored.”
— Takyah Smith
My Approach in Practice
In our sessions, I might invite you to pause and check in with your body, noticing any sensations or emotions present in the moment. From there, we could explore what comes up using Internal Family Systems, perhaps meeting and listening to different parts of yourself with curiosity and compassion. Some days, we might use art-making or narrative exercises to give voice to experiences that feel difficult to put into words. Other times, somatic grounding or breathing practices can help you feel safe and regulated before moving into deeper work. My goal is to co-create a space where you feel supported to explore at your own pace, with room for both vulnerability and growth.
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Somatic Therapy
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Black Liberation, Decolonization/Decoloniality, Disability Justice, Peer Support, Racial
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How We Can Work Together
Clients often reach out when they are:
Facing significant life changes and want to build stability and supportive routines.
Exploring or reconnecting with their identity, including cultural roots, values, and self-understanding.
Feeling stuck in unhelpful patterns and wanting to uncover triggers and practice new ways of responding.
Living with the effects of trauma or dissociation and seeking skills for nervous system regulation and resilience.
Navigating eating disorders or disordered eating and wanting a more compassionate, sustainable relationship with food and their body.
No matter the reason, my focus is on creating a collaborative process that moves at your pace and honors your lived experience.
