Tara Smith, LCSW

I help actors heal, so they can live and create with more freedom and joy.

My Approach

Together, we will integrate evidence-based methods of therapy (such as EMDR, Internal Family Systems, CBT, Mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) to heal the strong reactivity keeping you (and your nervous system) stuck. Then, things that "shouldn't" bother you won't trigger those strong reactions, and you will be free to live life and expand your art on your own terms.

The sessions are experiential: that is we engage in a healing process rather than only talking about it. I create a safe, warm, nonjudgmental space to explore what’s not working and bring you into alignment with your potential for well-being and creative self expression.

Offerings

  • Psychotherapy

    For actors in California and Illinois. I offer one-on-one psychotherapy sessions. I accept private pay and some insurance plans. I may also be able to help you get reimbursement if I'm not in your insurance network.

  • Groups and Community

    We're stronger together. Occassionally I host groups and events to connect artists in mutual support of holistic healing.

  • Mental Health Coaching

    Are you an Actor on Broadway or in Atlanta? A theater major in London? A movie star in Japan? Get effective healing and support without a diagnosis.

    Coaching is available to actors anywhere on planet earth.

Common Treatment Areas

  • Stage fright or performance anxiety

  • Fear of rejection or negative feedback

  • Healing trauma so you can explore acting techniques safely

  • Imposter syndrome

  • Concerns about job security and career instability

  • Challenges in maintaining work-life balance


  • Overthinking during rehearsals or performances

  • Social anxiety when networking

  • Navigating public scrutiny and online criticism

  • Disconnection from the body/character due to nerves

  • Difficulty accessing emotional vulnerability

  • Strained relationships

FAQ

  • You can start by scheduling a consultation to discuss your needs and how our therapy approaches can benefit you. Or, if you feel ready to begin, you can book your first appointment.

  • A 50-minute Individual Therapy Session is $200

    A 50-minute Individual Coaching Session is $175

  • I accept the following insurance plans:

    • Aetna (Illinois and California)

    • Blue Cross Blue Shield (Illinois)

    • Optum/Oscar (Illinois)

    • United Healthcare (Illinois)

  • While we cannot handle out-of-network insurance claims directly, we can provide you with a detailed superbill and answer questions about the information provided.

    Using out-of-network benefits typically means you will pay the full fee upfront and then receive partial reimbursement from your insurance. Your final out-of-pocket cost will be the difference between the therapy fee and the amount reimbursed by your insurance. There are websites such as Therapizer, Reimbursifiy, and Mentaya, that may help you cover the cost of out of network therapy.

  • I integrate several therapeutic approaches to provide comprehensive care, including:

    • EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): Helps process and integrate traumatic memories or distressing experiences.

    • Internal Family Systems (IFS): Explores and harmonizes different parts of the self to promote healing and self-understanding.

    • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Focuses on accepting thoughts and feelings while committing to values-driven actions.

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Addresses unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors to improve emotional well-being and functioning.

  • Most clients begin with weekly sessions to build momentum and address issues effectively. The frequency may be adjusted as needed based on your progress and goals.

  • Though I don't offer in-person sessions. My online sessions are conducted via secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms to ensure privacy and effectiveness.

Get in Touch!

Schedule a consultation or book your first session.