Hi, I’m Gail. Here’s my perspective…
There are so few places in this world where we can lay down our armor, speak our truths, and be fully seen and heard without fear. Judgment looms, misunderstandings sting, and the weight of our pain feels too heavy to share. Too often, the world lets us down.
But therapy can be different—a refuge from the noise, where we gently unfold what’s been tucked away. Together, we'll create breathing room to make sense of it all, hand in hand, heart to heart.
But therapy can be different—a refuge from the noise, where we gently unfold what’s been tucked away. Together, we'll create breathing room to make sense of it all, hand in hand, heart to heart.
My Approach
You won't find me sitting expressionless or nodding in silence. I believe in bringing my full, authentic self into our shared space. Sometimes that means sharing a laugh (yes, even dark humor has its place in healing), and other times it means sitting with difficult emotions together. Every aspect of who you are is welcome here – especially the parts that others might have labeled as "too much" or "not enough."
Think of therapy like tending to a garden – each flower represents a different part of your life. Some are blooming, others might be wilted, and a few might be hiding in the shade. Just as every plant needs different care, we'll work together to understand what nurtures your growth. Below the surface, like roots connecting everything in a garden, we often discover how various aspects of our lives intertwine in ways we hadn't noticed before.
Think of therapy like tending to a garden – each flower represents a different part of your life. Some are blooming, others might be wilted, and a few might be hiding in the shade. Just as every plant needs different care, we'll work together to understand what nurtures your growth. Below the surface, like roots connecting everything in a garden, we often discover how various aspects of our lives intertwine in ways we hadn't noticed before.
My Story
Originally from Hong Kong, I now call Brooklyn, NY, home. My upbringing in Asia has woven threads into who I am—threads I’m still unraveling as I continue to grow. It’s a key part of how I show up in therapy. I understand the quiet weight of living in a culture where feelings are left unsaid, where the pull to stay close to family and respect your elders is strong, where striving for perfection is constant, and mental health is an unspoken truth.
I understand the delicate balance of honoring our roots while forging our own path forward.
Raised in international schools and later finding my way to the U.S. for college, I’ve felt the quiet tug of two worlds—the longing for belonging, the ache of homesickness, the deep questioning of whether I was 'Asian enough' or 'American enough.' As a queer, Chinese-American therapist, my own journey drives my passion to support others who, like me, walk the path of intersecting identities. I often think how different it would have been if I’d had someone back then who truly understood.
Our identities deserve celebration, not constraint.
When I’m not in the therapy room, I’m typically hunting for the perfect espresso, stumbling through hikes that are way beyond my skill level, or attempting to master the art of identifying edible mushrooms—which I’m beginning to rethink after eating one I thought was safe, but turned out to be anything but.
I understand the delicate balance of honoring our roots while forging our own path forward.
Raised in international schools and later finding my way to the U.S. for college, I’ve felt the quiet tug of two worlds—the longing for belonging, the ache of homesickness, the deep questioning of whether I was 'Asian enough' or 'American enough.' As a queer, Chinese-American therapist, my own journey drives my passion to support others who, like me, walk the path of intersecting identities. I often think how different it would have been if I’d had someone back then who truly understood.
Our identities deserve celebration, not constraint.
When I’m not in the therapy room, I’m typically hunting for the perfect espresso, stumbling through hikes that are way beyond my skill level, or attempting to master the art of identifying edible mushrooms—which I’m beginning to rethink after eating one I thought was safe, but turned out to be anything but.
Professional Credentials
- Mental Health Counselor - Limited Permit (MHC-LP) in New York State
- Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC)
- Member of the American Counseling Association (ACA)
- MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Northwestern University
- BA in Cultural Anthropology and Film Studies, Wesleyan University
- Member of the International Association for Psychoanalytic Self Psychology
- Level 1 Trained in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP)
Whether or not we've met, I am excited for the journey you're on.
Let's
Connect
I appreciate you sharing your story with me. Taking this step shows real courage and self-care.
I'll get back to you within 24-48 hours to schedule a time to connect. In the meantime, take good care of yourself.
I'll get back to you within 24-48 hours to schedule a time to connect. In the meantime, take good care of yourself.
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You could try:
-Refreshing the page
-Double-checking your internet connection
-Coming back in a few minutesIf you continue having trouble, you can always email me directly at gailacsmith@gmail.com. I'm looking forward to connecting with you.
Contact
gailacsmith@gmail.comBased In
NYC
🔒 Your privacy matters. All inquiries are confidential.