معرفی
Dr. LaToya Smith is an Assistant Professor at Palo Alto University, where she also serves as Faculty Support Coordinator and Faculty Advisor for the Diaspora Student Organization. Based in Houston, Texas, she is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas and a native of San Diego, California. She holds a PhD and MEd in Counseling from the University of North Texas.
Her educational background includes:
- PhD in Counseling, University of North Texas, CACREP Accredited
- MEd in Counseling, University of North Texas, CACREP Accredited
Dr. Smith's research focuses on diversity, wellness and self-care, trauma, and creativity in counseling. Her clinical interests emphasize cultural competence and innovative therapeutic approaches within marginalized communities, particularly exploring lived experiences of African American populations.
Her publication trends reveal consistent exploration of diversity in counseling contexts, with significant emphasis on African American adolescents and women, alongside pedagogical innovations in counselor education. Cross-cutting themes include trauma-informed practices, wellness frameworks, and culturally responsive teaching methods.
Dr. Smith serves as Faculty Advisor for the Diaspora Student Organization, providing direct mentorship to students. Her extensive clinical background includes roles as outpatient counselor and Assistant Director at a university-based counseling clinic, PRN Crisis counselor, Private practice counselor, and IOP/PHP Counselor/Site Supervisor across diverse therapeutic settings.
