Dr. Quinn Smelser, Managing Clinician
Hello, I am Dr. Quinn Smelser. You have taken a very courageous step in seeking therapy. Since 2013, in my career as a counselor and psychotherapist, I have counseled children, families, and individuals from all walks of life across the lifespan. My clinical work is primarily focused on helping children, adolescents, and young adults, and families who have experienced grief or loss and trauma. I also have worked extensively with caregivers and parents to help them better understand themselves in order to care for their children. I have worked in urban, rural, and suburban communities in DC, Maryland, Virginia and Texas, under government-funded grants, and through private funding in homes, schools, and residential treatment.
Using an integrative approach that is trauma-informed, evidence-based, and family systems oriented, I draw from attachment theory, neurobiology research, developmental theories, cognitive-behavioral theory, humanism, and existentialism. As an EMDR-Trained clinician and as a Registered Play Therapist, I pay attention to how the body stores our stories no matter our age.
As a counselor, I believe that when people feel physically, emotionally, and psychologically safe, we have an innate capacity to grow towards a better sense of belonging and significance in this world. Additionally, I believe each person has a story to tell and that parts of this story may have gone off course. When we go off course, we feel disconnected, discouraged, and cope in unhealthy ways. What is defined as “off course” differs depending on the person, the environment, and the person’s cultural community.
My priority for all clients and families is to create an environment that feels safe and without judgment in which to guide you back to the course you want to be on. I value and believe that learning about your cultural and ethnic background is vital to our therapeutic relationship as is an acknowledgement of my own levels of privilege.
BACKGROUND
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland and I am licensed to supervise other clinicians in Texas, Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. I completed my Ph.D. in Counseling at The George Washington University (GWU) and my Master’s degree in Professional Counseling with a focus in Play Therapy at Texas State University. I am also a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor.
​
In addition to my clinical practice, I currently serve on the counseling faculty at St. Edward's University in Austin, TX. I am a nationally recognized expert and published author on play therapy, attachment theory, family therapy, ethical practice, trauma informed care for children, LGB and gender identity, grief and loss, and spirituality.
DR. QUINN SMELSER, LPC-S (TX/DC/VA), LCPC-S (MD), RPT-S
she/her/hers
I invite you to contact me for a complimentary 10-15 minute phone consultation to discuss your goals and see if we might be a good fit.