Today we’d like to introduce you to Abbie Smith.
Hi Abbie, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My path to becoming a counselor was shaped by both interest in counseling and personal growth. I had always been curious about how people think and why they chose certain behaviors. In my twenties, I experienced an unhealthy relationship that ended painfully. While difficult, that season of life became a turning point. Through my own counseling, I was introduced to the idea that we tend to attract relationships that reflect our own level of emotional healing.
That perspective motivated me to look inward, do my own work, and grow in self-awareness so I wouldn’t repeat the same patterns. What began as a personal commitment to growing, gradually became a professional calling. During this time, I worked as a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative but found the profession unfulfilling. So, I pursued my Master’s in Counseling and jumped into private practice to help other people.
I bring both clinical training and lived insight into my work, helping clients navigate anxiety, relationship challenges, grief, and life transitions with compassion and intention. I believe growth is possible for everyone, and that meaningful change begins when we are willing to understand ourselves more deeply.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Probably the most challenging time in this career was when my husband and I moved to Tyler in 2022. My son had just been born so I was rebuilding my practice while learning how to be a new mom. We lived in Tyler for 2 years and then moved back to the DFW area, where I’ve had to rebuild my practice again. Those years taught me perseverance and patience for sure!
As you know, we’re big fans of Cypress Banks Counseling. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I specialize in supporting individuals who struggle with anxiety, whether it’s related to life transitions, relationship challenges, or the complexities of parenting. I also work with those navigating seasons of grief, offering a space to process their loss with compassion.
Something that sets me apart is supporting individuals and families involved in the adoption journey, including birth parents, adoptive parents, and adoptees. Adoption presents unique emotional experiences that are often misunderstood or overlooked, and I am passionate about providing informed, empathetic support within this specialized area.
My brand holds deep personal meaning. The name reflects a place my family visits each year along the Frio River, a place associated with peace, grounding, and renewal. These are the same feelings I hope to cultivate for my clients as they engage in their therapeutic journey.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
These are some books I love and recommend often to clients: The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown and DARE by Barry McDonagh. For parents, Parenting with Love & Logic by Foster Cline
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cypressbankscounseling.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cypressbankscounseling
