Maria Smartt , LMSW, LISW

Maria Smartt is an independently licensed social worker practicing in Michigan and Ohio with 11 years of professional experience. She holds LMSW and LISW credentials - LMSW stands for Licensed Master Social Worker and LISW indicates Licensed Independent Social Worker - reflecting her training and independent clinical licensure in social work. Maria concentrates on a broad range of concerns including stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting challenges, self-esteem and confidence, depression, addictions, relationship and family issues, anger, and support for LGBT clients. Her additional focus includes adoption and foster care matters as well as veteran and armed forces issues.

Maria takes a respectful, compassionate approach and adapts conversations and treatment plans to each person’s unique needs. She combines client-centered care with practical techniques to help people build motivation, improve coping, and pursue more fulfilling daily lives. Maria emphasizes collaboration and tailored strategies, and she is committed to supporting the courage it takes to seek change and growth.

Therapeutic approaches and online care

Maria Smartt uses client-centered therapy to create a respectful, nonjudgmental space where the person’s goals and values guide the work. This approach helps with self-esteem, relationship concerns, parenting issues, and finding motivation by centering the client's perspective and strengths.

She also applies cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to identify and shift unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors. CBT offers practical tools for managing anxiety, depression, stress, and anger by teaching strategies to reframe thoughts and build coping skills.

Motivational interviewing is used when ambivalence or low motivation is a barrier to change. This collaborative, empathetic style supports people in exploring their reasons for change and strengthening their own commitment to goals.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Maria works collaboratively with each person to determine which techniques fit their needs, goals, and preferences, and she adjusts methods over time as progress and priorities evolve.

Online therapy options including video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging offer flexibility for busy schedules, caregiving responsibilities, or limited local resources. These formats make it easier to access licensed professionals and continue consistent work toward goals from different locations and life circumstances.