Alaina Smith (she/her)
MA, LPC, CSAT
Lead Therapist, Owner
Founder & Clinical Director | Licensed Professional Counselor | Certified Sex Addiction Therapist
When I founded Mariposa Counseling, I had a simple vision: create a place that felt less like a clinic and more like a place of healing.
Throughout my career, I worked in residential, home-based, intensive outpatient, and outpatient settings. While I gained invaluable experience, I often found myself longing for something different, a space where people struggling with addiction, trauma, betrayal, and life's hardships could receive specialized care without feeling judged, shamed, or reduced to a diagnosis.
Mariposa was built from that vision.
Today, I serve as Founder and Clinical Director, where I continue to provide therapy while also leading our team, supervising clinicians, educating the community through speaking engagements and podcast appearances, and helping shape the culture of the practice. My passion is creating an environment where both clients and clinicians feel seen, valued, and supported.
My Why
One of the accomplishments I am most proud of is the culture we have created at Mariposa.
We are a team-focused practice that believes exceptional care comes from continual learning, authentic relationships, and a holistic view of wellness. We intentionally invest in professional development, collaborate with trusted community partners, and work to ensure clients have access to quality resources both inside and outside our walls.
When I hire clinicians, I am less concerned about finding the "perfect therapist" and more concerned about finding good humans. Clinical skills can be taught and refined. Integrity, humility, curiosity, and genuine care for others are qualities that matter deeply to me.
I look for professionals who value growth, who understand that healing is not one-size-fits-all, and who recognize that we learn from our clients just as much as they learn from us.
Clinical Specialties
While much of my role now focuses on leadership and development, I continue to maintain a clinical practice.
My areas of specialization include:
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Sex and pornography addiction
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Substance use disorders
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Betrayal trauma and partner recovery
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Affair recovery and relationship healing
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Anxiety and depression
I am passionate about helping individuals and families find hope and healing, particularly when they feel overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about the path forward.
Credentials
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Master of Arts in Community Counseling
Western Michigan University, 2012 -
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
Vision For the Future
My goal has never been to build the biggest practice.
I believe slow growth creates strong roots.
My vision for Mariposa is to build something sustainable that will continue serving our community long after my direct involvement. I hope to create a lasting foundation rooted in our values—one where clinicians are supported, clients are cared for with excellence, and healing extends beyond the therapy office.
One day, I would love to create a dedicated wellness-centered space that includes areas for reflection, regulation, connection, and restoration. A place where people can experience healing in a way that honors the whole person.
Additional Services
I have done a variety of speaking engagements and genuinely enjoy using my knowledge and experiences to empower and educate others.
Topics I speak on:
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Mental Wellness
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Addiction
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Betrayal Trauma
Reach out if you are ready to bring in an expert to share knowledge in a dynamic way that enriches your staff or congregation.
Beyond the Office
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, our three children, and our dog. I love learning about different cultures through travel, local festivals, and discovering authentic restaurants and experiences.
Curiosity has always been one of my greatest strengths. Whether I am exploring a new country, learning from a colleague, or sitting with a client's story, I believe there is always something valuable to discover when we approach people and experiences with openness and respect.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward the life you want, reach out today!
We have therapists with immediate availability.
Ways to Reach Out: Psychology Today profile
You may also call or text: (616) 284-1329 or email Emily Chivis at echivis@mariposacounselingllc.com