Therapy in Farmington Hills. Michigan - Abbey Smith

Abbey Smith, MS, TLLP

psychologist

Farmington Hills & Virtual

Hi, I’m Abbey, and I’m so glad you’re here.

Starting therapy can take a lot of courage, especially if you’re used to holding it all together or figuring things out on your own. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just unsure of where to begin, you’re not alone. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, supported, and truly understood—where you can show up exactly as you are.

I’m a psychotherapist at Mala Child & Family Institute’s Farmington Hills clinic and a doctoral student in clinical psychology at the University of Detroit Mercy. I work with kids, teens, adults, couples, and families navigating all kinds of life experiences—anxiety, depression, trauma, identity questions, relationship challenges, and the everyday stress of being human. I’m especially passionate about supporting people who feel disconnected from themselves or others, and helping them find their way back to feeling whole and grounded again.

In our work together, I take a thoughtful and flexible approach. My foundation is in psychodynamic therapy, which means I’m always curious about how your past and present connect, and how those patterns might be showing up in your relationships, emotions, or sense of self. I also use strategies from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and play therapy, depending on what feels most helpful for you. My style is warm, curious, and collaborative, I’ll meet you wherever you’re at, and we’ll move at a pace that feels right for you.

I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all therapy. You are so much more than a diagnosis or a label. I care deeply about understanding your story, your strengths, and what matters most to you. Whether you’re working through something really painful or just trying to feel a little more like yourself again, I’ll be here to support you with consistency, compassion, and zero judgment.

If you’re looking for a therapist who will walk alongside you, not in front of you or behind you, but with you, I’d be honored to be that person.

    • Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology, University of Detroit Mercy - Anticipated Completion in 2027

    • Masters in Clinical Psychology, University of Detroit Mercy - 2024

    • Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Michigan State University - 2022

    • ADHD, Autism & AuDHD

    • Anxiety, Panic Disorder & Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

    • Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

    • Depression

    • Executive Functioning

    • Grief & Loss

    • Identity Development

    • Parenting or Co-Parenting Difficulties

    • Self-Esteem

    • Suicidal Ideation & Self-Harm

    • Trauma & PTSD

    • Behavioral Therapy For Toileting, Sleep & Daily Living Tasks

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    • Executive Function Coaching

    • Play Therapy

    • Psychodynamic

    • Individuals & Families

    • Children (4-10), Preteens, Teens, Adults

    • Blue Cross Blue Shield

    • Aetna

Get to know Abbey

  • As a young child and throughout my adolescence, I faced my own struggles with mental health. During those challenging times, I came to understand just how vital a strong support system can be. Family, friends, and mental health professionals played a significant role in helping me navigate through those difficult moments. One person who was instrumental in my journey was my cousin, who lost his own battle with depression. This loss deepened my understanding of the challenges many face in their mental health journeys and ignited a passion within me to help others who are struggling. I believe that no one should have to navigate these challenges alone, and I am dedicated to providing the kind of support that can make a difference in a person's life.

  • My ultimate wish for every client is that they find a sense of empowerment, healing, and self-compassion through our work together. I truly hope every client feels seen and heard and embraces their authentic selves.

  • My mother is someone who has always been a true inspiration in my life. She exemplifies strength, self-confidence, and fierce femininity, qualities that have deeply influenced who I am today. As a middle school teacher, she always extended love, compassion, and care to her students, creating a place of comfort and belonging. She instilled in me the belief that making a positive impact on even one person's life is meaningful. Her unwavering love and commitment to others have inspired me to carry that same love and care into my work, striving to make a difference by touching one life at a time.

  • I am deeply passionate about the importance of self-love and self-care. In our fast-paced world, I believe it's crucial to listen to our bodies and minds, treating ourselves with gentleness when needed. Creating time and space to slow down, unwind, and truly connect with ourselves is essential for maintaining balance and well-being. In my free time, I practice self-care through activities that bring me relaxation. Often, this means getting cozy with my kitty, Pickles. I also love gardening and caring for my plants, practicing yoga, painting my nails, and going for long walks with my dog, Winnie.

  • "May your day be full of magic and may you not be too busy to see it." - Brad Montague