Smitha Kashi PsyD, approaches therapy from a deeply relational perspective, prioritizing getting to know each client as a whole person before focusing on skills or problem-solving. Clients often describe her therapeutic style as grounding, relatable, and emotionally safe — a space where they can share parts of themselves they may not have felt comfortable expressing elsewhere. Her work focuses on helping clients build insight into patterns, relationships, and identity while also integrating accountability, self-awareness, and practical tools for change. Dr. Kashi believes therapy extends beyond the therapy room, and she works collaboratively with clients to strengthen support systems and move through life in ways that feel aligned with their values and authentic selves.

Dr. Kashi’s therapeutic style is warm, direct, and collaborative. She places strong emphasis on building trust and emotional safety within the therapeutic relationship, while also thoughtfully challenging patterns that may be contributing to feelings of stuckness or disconnection. Her work integrates insight-oriented exploration with practical support tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals.

She enjoys working with individuals navigating life transitions, identity development, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges. Dr. Kashi is especially passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, South Asian individuals and families, and high-functioning professionals managing emotional stress while balancing demanding personal or professional lives. Her approach helps clients deepen self-understanding, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful, sustainable change.

As a lesbian South Asian-American woman, I bring both personal and professional understanding to conversations around identity, culture, and belonging. Outside of work, I enjoy pottery, spending time with my cats, and unplugging whenever I can. I recharge most by being in nature — especially through camping and hiking.

Dr. Smitha Kashi holds a Psy.D. from the University of San Francisco and is a licensed clinical psychologist. She has worked across a range of settings, including intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), hospitals, schools, and private practice, which informs her ability to support clients with varying needs and levels of care.

Her clinical work is integrative, drawing from psychodynamic therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), along with training in Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFFT). She approaches therapy through a culturally responsive and affirming lens, with a strong emphasis on aligning care with each individual’s values rather than imposing a singular definition of what is “right.”

English; conversational Kannada

License CALIFORNIA / PSY35983