Rebecca Phelps-Smith , LICSW

Rebecca Phelps-Smith is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) practicing in the Berkshires region of Western Massachusetts. As a LICSW, she holds an advanced clinical social work license that reflects specialized training in assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic intervention. She draws on 15 years of experience across diverse clinical settings to provide evidence-based, solution-focused care to individuals of all ages.

Rebecca works with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem and body image struggles, disordered eating, substance use, anger management, relationship and family challenges, grief, and post-traumatic stress. Her approach emphasizes practical strategies and compassion, helping people build coping skills and make meaningful changes while respecting each person’s unique history and goals.

With a strong background in emergency services, crisis intervention, and suicide risk assessment, Rebecca understands the effects of vicarious trauma and the demands of high-stress professions. She is particularly experienced in supporting law enforcement, first responders, and other professionals who face sustained workplace stress, offering focused help to develop adaptive coping strategies and a nonjudgmental space to process difficult experiences.

Therapeutic approaches for online care and flexibility

Rebecca uses Client-Centered Therapy to create a collaborative, respectful space where the client’s priorities guide the work - this approach helps people build insight, self-acceptance, and practical solutions for everyday challenges. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is another mainstay of her practice; CBT focuses on identifying unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns and replacing them with strategies that reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. Mindfulness Therapy complements these methods by teaching present-moment awareness and stress-reduction techniques that can support emotional regulation and reduce reactivity.

Finding the right combination of methods is part of the therapeutic process. Rebecca works collaboratively with each person to determine which approaches best match their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting the plan as progress unfolds. This collaborative stance helps ensure therapy feels relevant and workable for the individual.

Online therapy with licensed professionals offers practical benefits - appointments by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging make it easier to fit sessions into busy schedules and to maintain continuity of care from different locations. These options support consistent access to therapists and flexibility in how people engage with their care.