Mary Smith

Mary is a graduate intern at Southern Methodist University with a passion for walking alongside individuals and their families through life's challenges. She has completed all of her coursework for her Master of Science in counseling and is working toward gaining her clinical hours. Mary concentrated on children and adolescents in graduate school and has an expected graduation date of May 2027. She earned her B.S. in Psychology from Texas A&M University with a certificate in Healthy Development. Her dedication to supporting children and adolescents stems from the four summers she spent at Pine Cove Ridge Christian Camp during her college years, an experience that fostered her growth in leadership, mentorship, and spiritual formation. Mary has continued to cultivate this passion by leading weekly small groups for sixth-grade girls at her church and serving as a peer counselor in her role as sorority chaplain during college.

Mary gained her practicum experience at SMU’s Center for Family Counseling, where she has the privilege of partnering with children and families to provide support. She utilized a Child-Centered Play Therapy approach which views play as children’s natural language, allowing them to process emotions and experience healing within a supportive relationship.

Mary utilizes a person-centered approach to foster a safe and supportive environment where clients feel valued, accepted, and heard. She believes that every individual has the inner strength to overcome adversity and an inherent drive toward personal growth. In her view, the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative partnership dedicated to the client's healing journey. Mary integrated additional therapeutic techniques based on each client’s unique goals and needs.

Mary is passionate about working with children and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, self harm, life transitions, ADHD, and developmental or intellectual disabilities. Outside of her work, Mary can be found spending time with her husband Mitch and friends. She loves pickleball, time outdoors, needlepoint, and a good book.