Willow Wakeley-Smith , LCSW

Willow Wakeley-Smith is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Missouri who helps people navigate stress, anxiety, parenting challenges, motivation, depression, ADHD, and confidence concerns, along with a wide range of related issues such as relationship and family struggles, trauma and abuse, grief, and coping with life changes.

She approaches each person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, tailoring care to the individual's needs and goals and recognizing that meaningful progress is an evolving process. Willow prioritizes practical outcomes and aims to make the work of therapy feel relevant and effective in everyday life, acknowledging the time and financial commitment clients make to their mental health.

Licensed in Missouri as an LCSW - a credential that denotes a licensed clinical social worker - she brings more than 10 years of professional experience working with children and five years of clinical experience treating adults with both moderate and significant mental illness. Her background includes substantial work in school settings with parents and students with disabilities, providing a strong foundation for addressing parenting-related concerns. She is not currently accepting new clients.

Approaches that guide online therapeutic work

Willow draws from client-centered therapy, which focuses on understanding each person from their own perspective and creating a supportive, empathetic space to explore feelings and goals. This approach is helpful for building self-esteem, improving relationships, and navigating life transitions.

She also uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and change unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviors. CBT is commonly used for anxiety, depression, ADHD-related challenges, and managing stress by teaching practical skills for coping and problem solving.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Willow works with clients to determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting the plan over time as progress and priorities evolve.

Online therapy with Willow can be delivered via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, offering flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier for people to access licensed professionals and continue consistent care even when life is busy or circumstances change.