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Dr. Lance Smith

Dr. Lance Smith, LMFT

Therapist in California

Experienced therapist for mood and relationships

Continue with Lance Review online therapy options on BetterHelp.
  • 25 years experience
  • LMFT licensed
  • Client-centered approach

About Lance

Dr. Lance Smith is a licensed marriage and family therapist with 25 years of experience. He works with people facing depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, parenting strain, trauma, and addiction. He aims to make therapy feel approachable and down-to-earth so clients can talk about what brought them in.

He describes himself as thoughtful and compassionate. He focuses on creating a respectful space where people can speak honestly about painful issues. Sessions often start by identifying a few clear goals and practical next steps that feel manageable.

His work draws on attachment-based ideas, client-centered listening, and cognitive behavioral techniques. That means he pays attention to how relationships shape feelings, listens for each person's perspective, and uses simple tools to notice and change unhelpful patterns. He also uses solution-focused and Gottman-informed ideas when relationships are a central concern.

Over a long career he has helped people with grief, bipolar concerns, panic, post-traumatic stress, caregiver strain, blended-family issues, and questions around identity and belonging. He brings a calm, steady approach and looks for realistic ways to reduce stress and improve connection.

People who choose him should expect direct but empathetic conversation, practical exercises to try between sessions, and a collaborative pace. He encourages clients to set the rhythm of work and to focus on what matters most to their daily life.

This summary is based on the profile information listed on BetterHelp.

How his approaches shape online work

Attachment-based work focuses on how early and current relationships influence feelings and behavior. It helps people understand patterns in close relationships and try new ways of relating that reduce worry and distance.

Client-centered therapy centers on listening and reflecting what matters to the person. This approach aims to help people feel heard and to build their own answers to difficult problems.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) looks at how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact. It uses practical exercises to test unhelpful thoughts and to build coping skills for depression, anxiety, and panic.

Finding the right approach is part of the process. The therapist will work collaboratively to match methods to a person's goals, needs, and preferences rather than sticking to one model. That can mean combining listening, relationship-focused work, and skills practice over time.

Confirm the session formats before booking, since the biography does not list specific options. In general, online sessions make it easier to fit counseling into a busy week, reduce travel time, and allow short check-ins when needed. They can also let people meet with a licensed professional from their local area without changing daily routines.

Frequently asked questions

What concerns does Dr. Smith address?

He works with depression, anxiety, relationship and family conflict, addictions, trauma and grief among other issues.

How would you describe his therapeutic style?

His style is thoughtful and compassionate, focused on listening closely and helping clients set clear, manageable goals.

What kind of experience does he bring?

He has 25 years of experience providing counseling for individuals and couples, with work across a wide range of concerns.

Which credentials and location apply to this therapist?

He holds the LMFT credential and practices in California.

What languages are sessions offered in?

Sessions are offered in English only.

Which session formats are available?

The original biography does not specify formats; please confirm current session options before booking.

How does cost and payment work?

Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

How do I begin working with him?

Select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to therapist availability.

Therapists on BetterHelp do not prescribe medication. A doctor can talk with you about medical options. If you are thinking about suicide, call or text 988; in an emergency, call 911.

Dr. Lance SmithContinue with Lance