Cody Smitka

Born and raised in Kansas City, I moved to the great (and HOT) state of Florida to earn my bachelor’s degree in Family and Child Sciences from Florida State University, and my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Nova Southeastern University. I then became a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) and practiced at Miami Children’s Hospital and later at Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte, North Carolina. As a CCLS, I was clinically trained to support infants, children, youth, and families to cope with stress and uncertainty of acute and chronic illness, trauma, disability, loss and bereavement. My work as a CCLS developed my profound appreciation for how incredibly resilient children can be when given the right tools. After returning home to Kansas City to start my own family, I continued to refine my skills as a play therapist through the Play Therapy program at MidAmerica Nazarene University. Leaning on my knowledge of child development, family systems, Conscious Discipline, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and the belief that every client is the agent for change if provided the right atmosphere and connection, it is my hope that our work together will bring about the peace you’re seeking. I intend to do this by holding space for you in a nonthreatening and nonjudgmental way, allowing for the authenticity and vulnerability necessary to elicit the growth and lasting changes you're seeking. It is truly my privilege to meet you with an open heart and offer my knowledge, experience, and unconditional support. I look forward to getting to the root of whatever issues bring you into therapy.