

I have been a social worker practicing psychotherapy for 25 years. I have enjoyed working with a variety of people with many different experiences, both in clinic settings and in private practice. For the past 10 years I have been the director of an outpatient substance abuse treatment clinic. I enjoy helping people work through past trauma and find a way forward. I believe that therapy can benefit anyone who is curious about themselves and wants to improve their lives.
I get so excited to watch clients learn more about themselves, build self confidence and grow as individuals. The transformations I have witnessed in the people I have worked with over the years is amazing and awe inspiring. Emotional pain can be incredibly difficult to deal with, especially on one’s own. Ultimately, we all deserve to feel better about ourselves and learn to care for ourselves in a more kind and accepting way.
I was born and raised in Brazil. When I was 16 years old I moved to Boston Massachusetts, where I discovered my passion for Mental Health. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science and a Master's degree focusing on Mental Health Counseling from Salem State University.
I have been working as a Counselor for the past 3 years, I have experience working with Individuals struggling with severe mental health issues and individuals looking to better understand themselves.
Self-love is the idea that one must love oneself to achieve happiness and love from others. It always made me feel some type of way. To survive, we are forced to constantly grind; to hustle. If that wasn't enough, we face daily oppression, including racism, sexism, ableism, transphobia, homophobia, colorism, texturism, and more! Self-love seems more and more like a folk tale similar to the American Dream: a goal that was not created for people of the global majority.
I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety disorders, specific phobias such as emetophobia, and related conditions. My clinical background spans over a decade and includes experience with both children and adults. I also have a strong foundation in supporting individuals with autism and ADHD, helping them navigate the unique challenges associated with these conditions.
I am a licensed mental health counselor and have a doctorate in education, as well as a certificate in positive psychology. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adult women.
Please see articles referencing my work:
https://ct.counseling.org/2023/03/is-mindfulness-a-cure-all-approach/
https://www.verywellmind.com/mindfulness-programs-boost-childrens-mental-health-5183877
As a licensed therapist, I have extensive experience working with clients with eating disorders, anxiety, depression and mood disorders. I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey towards healing and self discovery. My professional approach centers on creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their strengths and challenges while developing meaningful strategies for personal growth.
I’m Latoya Smith, a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over a decade of experience helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, and major life transitions.
I’m not just a therapist—I’m a mom, a mentor, and a middle child from a big Miami family. I know what it’s like to juggle responsibilities, to feel unseen, and to keep pouring from an empty cup. That lived experience shapes how I connect, how I listen, and how I help.


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