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- CBT methods
- Motivational Interviewing
- Solution-Focused Therapy
About Athina
LCSW in Florida with 20 years of clinical experience, Athina Smalios helps people facing stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief, anger, self-esteem struggles, and mood concerns such as depression and bipolar disorder. She also works with issues around parenting, family problems, ADHD, and caregiver strain. Athina uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy in her practice.
Athina aims for clear, practical work in sessions. She focuses on helping people learn coping skills, manage emotions, and solve immediate problems. Sessions involve direct conversation, behavioral strategies, and goal-focused steps rather than abstract theory.
Her trauma and grief work centers on stabilizing reactions and teaching tools to reduce distress. For anger and self-esteem concerns she uses cognitive and behavioral techniques to change unhelpful patterns and build more sustainable responses. Motivational Interviewing supports people who are ambivalent about change and want concrete next steps.
Athina also addresses workplace stress, compassion fatigue, and first responder issues with an eye toward everyday functioning. She helps people improve communication and manage control issues that interfere with relationships and daily life. Young adult issues and life-purpose questions are treated with solution-focused planning and short-term goals.
Sessions are organized around clear goals and measurable steps. Athina asks about immediate needs, sets focused goals, and tracks progress in subsequent meetings. To begin, people use the site process to match and schedule an initial session.
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How these approaches translate to online sessions
CBT focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and changing behaviors. In sessions that means reviewing recent situations, testing new responses, and practicing small behavioral experiments to change mood and functioning. Motivational Interviewing helps when someone feels stuck about making changes. The therapist uses open questions and reflection to clarify values and build manageable next steps. Solution-Focused Therapy emphasizes short-term goals and workable steps. Sessions often start by identifying a goal and mapping a few small, concrete actions to try between meetings.Deciding which approach to use is a collaborative process. The therapist will discuss what feels useful, try different techniques, and adjust plans based on the client's needs and preferences. Clients and therapist review progress and change course when needed so work stays practical and relevant.
Session formats are not specified in the biography, so confirm current options before booking. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy day, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and reduce travel time. It can also let people choose sessions that suit their schedule and energy levels while keeping the focus on measurable steps and day-to-day improvements.
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Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
20+ years
Listed in
Florida
Languages
English
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Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does she address?
She works with stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief, anger, self-esteem, depression, bipolar concerns, ADHD, and related issues such as caregiver stress and workplace problems.
What is her therapeutic style?
She takes a direct, goal-oriented approach that emphasizes practical coping skills, behavior changes, and short-term problem solving.
How much clinical experience does she have?
She has 20 years of experience working with people across a range of emotional and adjustment concerns.
What credential does she hold and where is she based?
She is an LCSW - Licensed Clinical Social Worker - licensed in Florida and practices from that state.
Which languages are supported for sessions?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with her?
International clients are not accepted at this time.
How are sessions arranged and what do they cost?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I get started with therapy?
Use the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the urgent help numbers.