Suzanne
St. John Smith
Psychotherapist
1.
Individual
Psychotherapy
Life can feel overwhelming at times, and it’s not always easy to make sense of what’s going on inside. Individual therapy offers a safe, confidential space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences at your own pace. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, grief, or simply feeling stuck, our work together focuses on helping you gain clarity, strengthen self-awareness, and reconnect with your inner sense of direction. My approach is supportive, conversational, and grounded in compassion—you don’t have to figure it all out alone.
2.
Couples
Therapy
Every relationship faces challenges, but how we navigate them makes all the difference. Couples therapy provides a space for open, honest dialogue—one where both partners feel heard and understood. Together, we’ll explore communication patterns, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional connection. Whether you’re trying to repair a relationship or deepen one that’s already strong, the goal is to create a more authentic and fulfilling partnership built on respect and understanding.
3.
Family
Therapy
Families are complex systems, and when one part of that system struggles, everyone feels it. Family therapy helps uncover the patterns that may be keeping the family stuck and encourages more compassionate ways of relating to one another. It’s not about assigning blame—it’s about understanding each person’s experience and finding ways to communicate and connect more effectively. I create a space where family members can listen, express, and begin to rebuild trust and connection together.
4.
Discussion
Groups
for Women
Sometimes what we need most is simply to talk—to share, listen, and be reminded that we’re not alone. These discussion groups offer a welcoming, supportive space for women to connect over real-life experiences, challenges, and transitions. There’s no pressure to have it all figured out; just honest conversation, mutual understanding, and a chance to learn from one another’s stories.
Each session is designed to foster reflection, insight, and connection in a relaxed, respectful atmosphere. Whether you’re navigating change, exploring personal growth, or simply craving meaningful conversation, these groups provide a sense of community that helps you feel seen, heard, and supported.
My Approach
There is no single approach to therapy that fits every individual. While many concerns brought to counselling may sound similar, each person’s experience and interpretation are unique. My work begins with the foundation of an effective therapeutic relationship—one built on trust, respect, safety, and collaboration. I aim to create an environment where clients feel supported and understood as we work together to address the challenges in their lives.
I believe that our wisest guide lives within us. Each of us holds an inner voice that knows what is true, yet fear often interferes with our ability to hear it. My role is to help clients identify and address the fears that block access to that inner wisdom so they can make choices that align with their authentic selves. Awareness is at the heart of change, and by recognizing areas of self-blindness, clients often find the freedom to move beyond patterns that have kept them feeling stuck or powerless.
Ultimately, therapy is about reclaiming personal responsibility and discovering one’s own creative solutions. While external influences can feel overwhelming, believing that we have no control diminishes our personal power. I work with clients to strengthen their sense of agency so they can live with greater confidence, purpose, and fulfillment—guided by a deepening connection to their own inner truth.
About me
With more than two decades of experience as a psychotherapist in private practice, I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate the complexities of emotional health, relationships, and personal growth.
In addition to my clinical practice, I am a Family Enterprise Advisor™ (FEA), supporting High and Ultra high-net business families as they manage the intersection of family dynamics, governance, and wealth continuity.
I live in beautiful West Vancouver, and enjoy spending time with family and friends, and with my Frenchie and Golden Retriever. My favourite hobbies are road cycling, hiking, fitness, and reading.
Education:
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Family Enterprise Advisor™ (FEA) – UBC’s Sauder School of Business and Family Enterprise Canada (FEC)
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Master of Counselling Psychology – Adler School of Professional Psychology, Chicago, Illinois
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Master of Communications – Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario
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Bachelor of Arts – Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia
Getting Help
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1.
Relationship
Challenges
2.
MidLife
Transitions
3.
Depression
&
Anxiety
4.
Parenting
Challenges
5.
Grief
&
Loss