Michelle Smith - MA, LMHC, RPT™
(she/hers)
Child and Family Therapist
Registered Play Therapist™
Certified Child Centered Play Therapist
EMDR Certified Therapist
Circle of Security Parenting® (COSP) Facilitator
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
# LH61379680
About | Child Therapist in Seattle
Choosing support for your child is an important step, and it can come with a lot of questions. My goal is to create a space where children and parents/caregivers feel comfortable, understood and supported.
I am a child therapist in Seattle with a background in education and child development. My work is grounded in a thoughtful, developmentally-informed approach, integrating evidence-based practices to support children and families in ways that feel practical, respectful and meaningful.
My Background
Prior to settling in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, I lived on the East Coast and overseas, working with children and families from a wide range of cultural and educational backgrounds. I bring over 25 years of experience supporting children, first as an educator, and now as a therapist.
I earned my master’s degree from Teachers College, Columbia University and taught students from early childhood through high school, as well as adult learners, in public, independent and international schools. Across these settings, I worked closely with children and families navigating diverse learning needs, transitions and challenges.
Through this work, I saw firsthand how deeply a child’s emotional well-being impacts their ability to learn, connect and thrive. While advocating for my students, it became clear that supporting mental health was just as essential as supporting academics.
This understanding led me to pursue a second master’s degree in Applied Child and Adolescent Psychology from the University of Washington, and to become a licensed mental health clinician specializing in child therapy.
My Approach to Child Therapy
My work is grounded in a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach and integrates play, attachment and evidence-based practices to support children. I tailor therapy to each child’s unique needs and work closely with caregivers to help you support your child at home and in daily life.
I also bring a personal understanding of neurodivergence, including lived experience with ADHD and dyslexia. This perspective deepens my commitment to a neuro-affirming approach that supports each child’s unique strengths and needs, honoring the many ways children experience and move through the world.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my daughter, reading, hiking and creating encaustic art. At home, I’m often playing with my rabbit, Tokki, and my cat, Snowy, who are quickly becoming the best of friends.