Areas of Focus:
• Anxiety & Depression
• Trauma
• Relationships, Life Transitions, Career
• Cultural Identity
• Children, adolescents, adults
Approach & Style:
• Person-Centered
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Expressive Arts and Mindfulness
• EMDR
Credentials:
• Associate Professional Clinical Counselor #12295
• Associate Marriage and Family Therapist #135080
• Supervised by Olivia Brasil, LMFT #81225
• B.A. in Political Science from Tufts University
• M.B.A. in Business Administration from Claremont Graduate University
• M.A. in Counseling from Palo Alto University
I identify as: South Asian American, First Generation, Cisgender Woman
I am allied with: BIPOC, Immigrant, LGBTQIA+, Chronic Illness, Autoimmune Disorders, Body Positivity & Neutrality
Smita Basak
MA, AMFT, APCC
I treat children, teens, and adults experiencing trauma, mood disorders, life transitions, and cultural identity. I specialize with South Asian and Asian communities. I am EMDR trained.
I am committed to empowering children (10+), teens, adults and families to build stronger, more resilient relationships, navigate the complexities of life's challenges, and achieve greater well-being. I am passionate about helping BIPOC communities, including South Asian and Asian communities, and addressing the unique challenges and systemic inequities many face.
In my work with children, I have gained experience addressing concerns such as anxiety, depression, academic stress, ADHD, technology and gaming challenges, family and peer conflicts, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and low self-esteem. With adults, I have helped clients navigate mental health challenges related to dating, marriage, family dynamics, life transitions, health issues, and workplace stressors. Additionally, my previous experience in finance and business, allows me to understand the fast-paced work environment of Silicon Valley and the specific mental health needs of professionals in this space. My background in dance allows me to think creatively in collaborating with clients on their healing journey.
Through empathy and curiosity, I help individuals tap into their inner resources, build confidence to face conflicts head-on, develop effective coping skills, and overcome feelings of pressure, frustration, powerlessness, or helplessness. I recognize that cultural background, upbringing, and family dynamics are integral to shaping one’s identity. By understanding these intersecting influences, I believe in the unique strengths of each individual and family to foster growth, healing, and lasting positive change.
I utilize an integrative approach, drawing on evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, and art and play-based therapeutic techniques. With a warm and nurturing presence and a deep respect for the complexity of each client’s identity, I strive to create a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a meaningful way.
