Amanda Smart

Amanda is a Licensed Professional Counseling and Master Addiction Counselor. She earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology and her Masters of Science degree in Community Agency Counseling from the University of Memphis in 1997. She spent the majority of her first years in counseling working with adults who were homeless, with severe mental illness, substance abuse and those individuals who were also incarcerated. She then went on to work with Shelby County Government in Memphis to develop programs to transition individuals with mental illness out of the criminal justice system and into treatment when appropriate. She has focused her time since 2008 in community mental health and spent 6 years as Coordinator of a large clinic in Northeast Arkansas. Over the many years and experiences, Amanda found that “a common link for the majority of the clients I have had over the years has been some form of trauma.” She has continued her study throughout the years in efforts to better understand the issues each client faces and how to best provide assistance in successfully reaching their goals.

Amanda also spent some time leading a Human Potentials group; helping young adults to set goals and determine the steps necessary, and finding their motivation to achieve those goals. “Overall I love people and I love finding ways to assist them in reaching their goals for themselves.”
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Relationships are always key to where we are in life; where we have come from, how we feel about ourselves and ultimately the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for healing. Amanda works with adults with mental illness, trauma, substance issues and recovery and adjustment to life’s stressors. In addition, she enjoys working with individuals who are motivated to set goals, grow and build the life that they want for themselves.

Amanda loves Northwest Arkansas, calling the Hogs anywhere and anytime, her dog Suki and her daughter, Madeline.