Scotty Smittle, LPC

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United States
Conway, AR
Scotty Smittle, LPC

Finding support for your mental health and wellbeing can feel overwhelming. You deserve a therapist who will provide services with genuine authentic connection.

With over 15 years of experience, I'm equipped to provide exceptional care to every client.

08/20/2025

It's not uncommon for brand new high school seniors to feel a little sad about their final year. While many seniors are excited to be done with school after many long and difficult years, often they also feel a little sad about the end of this era that has been steady as long as they can remember, anxious about what's to come after school, and both internal and external pressure to finish well.
During this time, it's important for parents and guardians to encourage their senior to soak up the fun memories that come with senior year, help them make plans for the future, and commit to being by their side as they navigate the confusing world of adulthood.
Remember to share your own memories of anxiety, your mistakes, and your successes, so they know they're not alone!
I hope they're off to a great start school year! If you ever find yourself needing support during this sometimes emotional season please reach out! I'm here to help!

06/22/2025

The stress of current events can be relentless, and the sights of war and civil unrest can trigger significant anxiety, stress, and feelings of helplessness. If you're finding yourself feeling overwhelmed, know that you are not alone, and these reactions are a natural response to daunting circumstances. It's important to acknowledge the impact these events have on your mental well-being and equip yourself with strategies to help manage anxiety during times like these.

Mindful Media Consumption: Stay informed, but set boundaries. Constant exposure to distressing news can be damaging. Consider designated times for news, and choose reliable simplified sources.

Focus on Your Sphere of Influence: While you may not be able to control large-scale events, you can control your reactions and your immediate environment. Focus on personal well-being, supporting your community, or engaging in local positive action if it feels right for you.

Prioritize Self-Care: This isn't selfish; it's essential. Make sure you're getting enough sleep, eating good foods, exercising, and engaging in activities that bring you calm and joy.

Connect & Communicate: Talk to trusted friends, family, or community members about how you're feeling. Sharing your experiences can reduce feelings of isolation.

Grounding Techniques: Practice mindfulness or simple breathing exercises to bring yourself back to the present moment when anxiety feels overwhelming.

If your anxiety is persistent, interfering with your daily life, or feels unmanageable, please consider reaching out for professional support. I'm here to provide a safe and confidential space for you to process emotions and develop coping strategies if needed.

06/18/2025

Pride Month reminds us of our basic human need for acceptance and belonging. As an affirming counselor, I'm dedicated to creating a safe and understanding space for LGBTQIA+ folks to thrive. If you're seeking therapy where you can safely be yourself, please reach out. Sending love and solidarity to all this Pride!

06/12/2025

Sometimes it can be overwhelming to consider setting boundaries in harmful relationships. You may - like me - be a recovering people-pleaser, and know that boundaries are necessary and beneficial, but it can be terrifying to draw those firm lines in the sand. It may be helpful to practice with micro-boundaries. For example, try respectfully saying no when someone asks for your help with something you really don't have the energy to help with. Choose to voice your opinion on where to eat instead of deferring to the group you're going with. Or let your partner know when you're upset about something rather than stuffing it for the sake of peacekeeping. Getting comfortable with micro-boundaries can help you ease into the necessary bigger boundaries when they're needed.

06/05/2025

Now that Summer is here, many of us are feeling the pull of lazy days filled with absolutely nothing. This is especially true for teachers and students whose typical schedule has just been freed up. Sometimes we describe this lack of structure and scheduling as "rot." If this term is unfamiliar to you, imagine spending hours "rotting" in bed. However, I've heard clients unfairly label something as "rot" when really what they are experiencing is much needed "rest." The two are very different, and it's important to know the difference between the two for yourself. Rotting is often defined by mindlessly scrolling or binge-watching, without leaving you feeling recharged and well-rested. Rest, on the other hand, is an intentional, time-limited break that allows you to restore your energy before returning to the duties of daily life. Make the most of your downtime this Summer, and avoid slipping into wasteful rot, by setting aside moments to purposefully relax and enjoy little things that rejuvenate you. Read a book, enjoy a lemonade or sweet tea, or listen to a favorite podcast. What are some of your favorite ways to rest?
MentalHealthAwareness

06/01/2025

I've had clients express a sense of nihilism, essentially that life has no meaning, everything is pointless, bad things happen to good people, etc. You may have had similar thoughts and feelings. Often, nihilism arises when someone is faced with death, trauma, or great disappointment. Sometimes, this can lead to despair and hopelessness. However, there is another way to look at it: optimistic nihilism. Optimistic nihilism is a perspective that asks, if there is no greater purpose or meaning to life, why not maximize every moment we have? Why not make the most of relationships and the million little pleasures in life? Flipping nihilism on its head like this can lift your mood, enhance your connections with others, and improve your overall mental health. Next time you start to drift into despair, consider giving it a shot. Your mental health is worth it! And if you need a little help, let me know!

05/14/2025

Mental Health Awareness Month is here – a reminder that prioritizing your mental well-being is crucial, especially during the intense years of adolescence and young adulthood.

Feeling stressed, anxious, overwhelmed, or just not yourself? These feelings are valid, and there's support available. Therapy can provide you with tools and strategies to navigate these challenges effectively.

Take a proactive step for your well-being this month. Reach out to learn more about our services and how we can help.

Your mental health matters. Let's work on it together.

05/11/2025

Happy Mother's Day to those celebrating! This day can bring joy and pain. There's no wrong way to feel today, so whatever today brings, allow yourself time to reflect.

05/08/2025

Graduation season is here! This time of year always leaves me feeling slightly nostalgic for my own graduation. In 2009, I received my Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Community Counseling from John Brown University. This was a celebration of the accomplishment that came after years of hard work and sacrifice. During those years, my wife and I were raising our three young children, and I worked long hours to provide for our family. During the week, I would leave for work before anyone was awake, and come home from class after everyone was asleep. It was a rough couple of years, but at last, we made it to graduation together. I was so thankful for my family supporting me through my education, and so proud of myself for getting to the end. On graduation day my wife snapped this photo of my oldest daughter cheering her daddy on as I walked across the stage. I’ve always loved this photo because you can see pride for me on her face. Even as a young child she understood what it took for all of us to get there, and like me, she was excited this time had come to an end.
To those graduating this Spring, well done. We're proud of you! You should be proud of yourself!
To those who have been the support along the way, thank you!

05/05/2025

It's not uncommon for high achievers to feel they don't deserve the success they have achieved in their work. In fact, many successful students, employees, athletes, and performers believe their position of success is due to luck rather than skills acquired through hard work. If you struggle with imposter syndrome, take some time to review the hard work that has brought you to this far, and honor that work through humble acceptance of your success. And if you need a little help with this process, please reach out and I would be glad to offer our support.

05/02/2025

In relationships, it is vitally important to learn your partner, child, or parent - their likes and dislikes, their preferences and their pet peeves, and many other characteristics that make them who they are. However, sometimes we make the mistake of viewing these preferences as an if-then formula that can be followed absolutely. For example: If I hold your hand when we're in conflict, then you will listen without being defensive. Of course, as you know, things aren't that simple! Because relationships don't work like algebra - there is no formula! Yes, it's important to be attentive as you grow in your relationship, but it's just as important to be flexible as you learn. If you find yourself falling for the formula fallacy, let us know and we'll help you learn to be more flexible.

04/23/2025

📖 Happy World Book Day! 📖

Take a moment today to appreciate the amazing power of stories and the magic held within the pages of a book. Whether it's escaping into a thriller, learning something new from non-fiction, or finding comfort in familiar classics, reading can be a wonderful tool for our mental well-being.

Did you know that reading can:
Reduce stress and promote relaxation
Enhance focus and concentration
Foster empathy and understanding
Provide a healthy escape and distraction

Just like therapy, reading can offer new perspectives, help us process emotions, and remind us that we're not alone in our experiences.

What are you reading today?

If you're looking for more ways to nurture your mental health and well-being, feel free to reach out. We're here to support you on your journey.

Address

Conway, AR
72034

Website

https://www.linkedin.com/in/scotty-smittle-a0688785, https://www.riseforfamilies.com/staff/scotty-smittle, https://www.p

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