Dr. Ana Smith, PhD is a Clinical Psychologist practicing at her clinic in Miami, FL, dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive Clinical Psychology care for older adults. She is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). Dr. Smith is deeply committed to partnering with seniors and their families, understanding the unique challenges and opportunities of aging. Her expertise lies in providing expert mental and behavioral healthcare, addressing the complex conditions that can affect older adults, such as depression, anxiety, and the difficulties often associated with chronic illness and loss.
Clinical psychologists specializing in geriatric care provide expert mental and behavioral healthcare for older adults and their families, partnering with primary care physicians to address these complex conditions. Dr. Smith offers psychotherapy, coping strategies, and cognitive assessments to support her patients. She serves individuals 65 years and older, helping them navigate the emotional and psychological aspects of aging with dignity and resilience. Prospective patients should call (305) 596-6399 to confirm if Dr. Ana Smith is currently accepting new patients. Dr. Ana Smith, PhD is a clinical psychologist in Miami, FL, dedicated to fostering a collaborative and supportive environment where patients and their families feel empowered in their healthcare decisions. She approaches care using evidence-based medicine and prioritizes creating a supportive environment for each patient. Dr. Ana Smith provides consultations primarily in English.
A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. Ana Smith is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.
Dr. Ana Smith is a compassionate partner in your senior's health journey, providing comprehensive clinical psychology care tailored to their unique needs. She expertly addresses mental and behavioral health concerns, including depression and anxiety, alongside chronic illnesses and loss, through evidence-based therapies and cognitive assessments. Dr. Smith collaborates closely with primary care physicians to create a holistic plan that empowers seniors and their families, fostering independence and well-being.
By working together, you, your family, and Dr. Ana Smith can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. Ana Smith provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:
- Depressive Episode: A depressive episode is more than just feeling blue; it's a serious condition that can be addressed through therapy and potentially medication, helping you regain your zest for life and maintain independence.
- Acute Insomnia: Dealing with sudden sleeplessness? Acute insomnia can be managed with help from a specialist. Simple lifestyle tweaks, combined with relaxation techniques, could be all it takes to restore your healthy sleep patterns and boost your energy levels.
- Sexual Dysfunction: Many physical and emotional factors can contribute to sexual difficulties in later life; a psychologist can help identify these factors and develop coping mechanisms.
- Disruptive Behavior Disorders: Sometimes, changes in behavior, such as increased irritability or restlessness, can be a sign of a disruptive behavior disorder in older age; a psychologist can help identify the cause and develop strategies to improve calmness and reduce challenging behaviors.
- Medical-Psychiatric Issues: A clinical psychologist helps older adults and their families navigate the emotional and mental health effects of chronic illnesses or other medical conditions, offering support and tools to improve daily life and build resilience.
- Alcoholism (Alcohol Dependence): If an older loved one struggles with alcohol, know that it's a treatable condition. A psychologist can help them develop coping mechanisms and address underlying issues contributing to their alcohol use.
- Schizophreniform and Schizoaffective Disorder: Schizophreniform and schizoaffective disorders are serious mental health conditions that can cause unusual thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, but with the right treatment, including medication and therapy, individuals can manage their symptoms and live fulfilling lives.
This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.
To provide comprehensive and person-centered care, Dr. Ana Smith offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:
- Eating Management: A psychologist can help seniors develop coping mechanisms for emotional eating or disordered eating patterns, improving their mental and physical health.
- Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (ISRT): ISRT assists in identifying and addressing the link between irregular daily routines, social rhythms, and the development or worsening of mood disorders in older adults.
- Individual Therapy: This type of therapy allows for a focused assessment of cognitive function and emotional well-being, contributing to a comprehensive care plan for seniors.
- Dementia or Depression Screening: A dementia or depression screening is a valuable tool to identify potential issues early, allowing for prompt treatment and improved quality of life.
- Mindfulness Meditation: Mindfulness meditation assists in improving emotional regulation, aiding seniors in processing grief and loss more effectively.
- Psychoanalysis: Psychoanalysis can help uncover unconscious patterns affecting your emotional well-being, leading to a more fulfilling later life.
- Psychosomatic Medicine Services: This approach ensures that your overall health is considered, combining mental health strategies with physical treatments for better outcomes.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Clinical Psychologists in Florida.
Dr. Ana Smith is dedicated to partnering with older adults and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how compassionate care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- Feeling less isolated and more connected to loved ones, a senior rediscovered joy in her favorite hobbies, painting and gardening, after therapy sessions helped her manage her depressive episode.
- Feeling increasingly restless at night, a senior found their sleep significantly improved with the help of a therapist's guidance. The family rejoiced at the newfound peace and quiet, enabling them to enjoy evening conversations and activities together again.
- A couple found renewed intimacy and connection after working with a clinical psychologist to address concerns about sexual difficulties, leading to a more fulfilling and satisfying relationship.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Practice
3801 E Highway 98 Ste 100100, Port St. Joe, FL, 32456
Phone: (850) 229-5752
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- HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
Here are answers to some common questions about Clinical Psychology care with Dr. Ana Smith:
- What is the difference between a Clinical Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?
- Dr. Smith, a clinical psychologist, has a doctorate and specializes in psychotherapy and psychological testing. She does not prescribe medication. A psychiatrist, on the other hand, is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication. Both are important members of your care team.
- I'm not 'mentally ill,' so why would I see a psychologist?
- Dr. Smith's practice helps older adults navigate life's transitions and challenges, regardless of the presence of a diagnosed mental illness. Many seniors seek her support to cope with new diagnoses, retirement adjustments, loss, or family communication difficulties. Psychology provides valuable tools for managing stress and improving well-being at any stage of life.
- What if I'm having a mental health crisis?
- Dr. Smith's outpatient therapy practice is not equipped to handle immediate mental health emergencies. If you are having a crisis or feel you may be a danger to yourself or others, please call 911 or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline immediately, or go to the nearest emergency room. Getting immediate help is the most important first step.
- It's been over a year since my spouse passed, and I still feel stuck. Can psychology help with grief?
- Grief has no timeline, and feeling stuck is a common experience after loss. Grief counseling provides a supportive space to honor your loved one's memory and navigate complex emotions. Dr. Smith can help you find ways to carry your spouse's memory forward and rediscover a sense of purpose and connection.
- What is a neuropsychological evaluation?
- A neuropsychological evaluation is like a check-up for your brain's thinking skills. It involves a series of puzzles, questions, and tasks to assess functions like memory, attention, and problem-solving. This helps understand cognitive changes, identify strengths and weaknesses, and potentially diagnose conditions like dementia, providing clarity for families.
- I have trouble sleeping. Can a psychologist help with insomnia?
- Yes, Dr. Smith can help. Psychologists, like Dr. Smith, treat insomnia effectively without medication using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). This program helps reset sleep patterns by addressing thoughts and behaviors that interfere with sleep, including relaxation skills and establishing a healthy sleep routine.
- What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a practical, skills-based therapy that helps identify and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors contributing to depression or anxiety. It teaches you to notice negative thought patterns and reframe them in a more positive, realistic way, making it a proven and effective approach.
- Can therapy really help with the stress of being a caregiver?
- Absolutely. Caregiving is incredibly demanding, and Dr. Smith provides a confidential space to process the complex emotions, like guilt, frustration, and sadness, that often arise. Therapy can help you learn practical coping skills, manage stress, prevent burnout, and find better ways to care for both yourself and your loved one.
1501 Venera Ave Ste 225
Miami FL 33146
Phone: (305) 596-6399
Dr. Ana Smith, PhD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1912179656
Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by infoaging.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with healthcare partners for yourself or a loved one. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the provider named. Clinical Psychologists like Dr. Ana Smith are skilled in helping seniors and their families navigate their health journey. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.