Suzanne Smith, Ph.D.

I am the sole owner of Lakefront Psychology, LLC and an advanced trained Clinical Psychologist.  My mission at Lakefront Psychology, LLC is to help each person become his or her own best self.  I utilize research supported treatment interventions that help people achieve this healthy change, and I teach specific skills that help them maintain emotional wellness long after therapy sessions end.  

I bring the unique expertise of advanced postdoctoral training and over 15 years of clinical experience to the personalized care I provide. I work with both individuals and couples to achieve their personal goals of psychological wellness and healthy relationships.

I have specialized training in women’s health with a focus on the unique challenges women face throughout the childbearing and childrearing years. My passion is to support women facing stress during conception, fertility interventions, pregnancy losses, emotional changes with pregnancy and the postpartum phase, as well as relationship changes.  I strive to help women cope with these challenges and gain a confident sense of self. While these are often tricky waters to navigate, it can be immensely easier with calm guidance and compassion.

In my office, I create a comfortable, supportive atmosphere to facilitate the sensitive task of talking about personal issues. I feel tremendous gratitude for being part of a journey that helps people grow and achieve their goals. And I appreciate how brave it is to take that first step toward greater wellness.

TRAINING

  • Ph.D. Ohio University in 2003
  • Predoctoral Internship at the Cincinnati Veterans Affairs Medical Center 2002
  • Postdoctoral Residency in Chronic Pain Cleveland Clinic 2005
  • Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Level 2 Training 2016
  • Perinatal Mood Disorders: Components of Care 2017

PERSONAL

I live on Cleveland’s west side with my husband of 18 years.  Together we are raising our three active children and one fluffy puppy, who really is more muppet than dog.  We do our best to carve out family time for kitchen dance parties and hikes through the woods.  

Yet we are human, and I understand very personally the challenge to balance the needs of family, work, friends, hobbies, and self. I practice many of the same interventions that I teach in sessions.  And I accept the moments when I too do not realize my best self.  

I believe we are all a work in progress, and accepting ourselves in the process of change is the key to a life well lived.