Karl Smith

Clinician Karl Smith, MSW, LMSW he/him/his Licensed In: New York New Jersey Education & Training: Master of Social Work (MSW) – Rutgers University Ongoing professional development in: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) Specialties: I primarily work with men and masculine-identifying individuals of color, many of whom belong to the LGBTQ+ community and are experiencing depression and/or anxiety. I specialize in working with men’s issues around self esteem, societal expectations, and emotional expression; individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, and self-esteem challenges; and people of color navigating their lived experiences. These clients are often working to better navigate interpersonal relationships and explore healthy forms of masculinity in a way that aligns with their values. I am equipped to support clients in developing stronger relationships—whether romantic, familial, or social—by improving communication skills, setting healthy boundaries, and addressing relational patterns that may impact their well-being. Clinical Style & Theoretical Orientation: I take a values-based, behavioral strategy approach to therapy. My sessions are communicative, goal-driven, and emotion-focused, designed to help clients challenge personal narratives that may be holding them back. While my work is present-focused, I also help clients explore early experiences to understand how their past shapes their current depressive behaviors, emotions, and self-perception. My approach emphasizes developing self-awareness in relationships, recognizing unhealthy dynamics, and fostering stronger, more fulfilling connections. By integrating multiple techniques across different therapy models such as reality testing, mindfulness and emotion regulation, values-aligned action, as well as other satellite techniques, I help clients build skills for long-term success while fostering resilience and emotional well-being. I understand that marginalized communities—whether due to race, gender, sexuality, or socioeconomic status—face unique challenges, including internalized self-doubt, pressure to prove themselves, and the emotional labor of navigating social systems that were not designed with them in mind. My work focuses on helping clients find their voice, build confidence, and develop meaningful strategies for resilience and self-advocacy through a culturally responsive and identity-affirming approach. Lived Identity: Black male therapist who grew up in under-resourced neighborhoods in Jersey City, with personal experience navigating systemic barriers and racial identity Lived through and understands the challenges of growing up in a low socioeconomic environment, including financial instability, limited access to resources, and the pressure to succeed despite systemic obstacles Third-generation college graduate, uniquely positioned to understand the pressures of continuing a legacy of education and achievement within the Black community Personal Interests: I enjoy board games, fantasy novels, musical theater, anime, and video games—especially stories that explore identity, resilience, and transformation. I’m an avid basketball and football fan, and find balance through biking and staying active, including walks with my dog. These interests help me connect with clients through shared experiences and bring a grounded, approachable energy to my work.