Crystal Smithson-West – Master’s Level Intern

I am a warm, empathetic, honest, and practical counseling intern who is passionate about helping individuals and couples learn the necessary coping skills to thrive through challenging times in their lives. Whether a client is faced with personal or professional issues that is impacting major life transitions, inflicting low self-esteem, lack of confidence, anxiety, interpersonal problems, or struggles with your own internal thoughts, emotions, and self-talk – I believe healing and a renewed perspective can happen inside a safe and collaborative space I create for my clients.

My compassion for this field stems from personal, professional, and academic experiences. I am a master’s level student who is currently pursuing a Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree at Liberty University. I also received my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Life Coaching at Liberty University as well. Professionally, I received certification as a Trauma Healing Facilitator through the Trauma Healing Institute, where I am experienced in trauma healing group work.

Personally, I have experienced bipolar disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, and suicide within close relationships, so I speak to clients, not just out of textbook, but personal experience on developing healthy coping skills, finding value in self, while navigating healthy relationship patterns.

My role as your counselor is to walk alongside challenging times in your life, to help you determine goals and direction you want to go while offering balance, purpose, and support to you in every session.