Meet Morgan Smith McKendrick, MFTi in Draper UT

Morgan earned her Bachelor’s degree from The University of Maine and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy. She chose the field of marriage and family therapy, recognizing the profound impact of our closest relationships being intricately connected to our individual well-being.

Morgan’s professional background includes valuable experience in various clinical settings, including hospital-based treatment, addressing the diverse needs of individuals facing varying levels of challenges. There, she supported patients experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma, along with their families and loved ones.

Morgan specializes in supporting adolescents and adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, stress, relationship issues, and life-changing events. Using a person-centered approach, she addresses individual concerns while considering broader external factors that may be beyond the client’s control. Morgan tailors her approach to the needs of each individual and integrates various therapeutic techniques, including:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
• Gottman Method
• Psychodynamic Therapy

In maintaining my own mental health, I make it a point to check in on my basic needs. Have I stepped outside today? Drank enough water? Grabbed a snack? Connected with a loved one or a friend? Even a short walk around the neighborhood to grab a coffee fulfills some of our fundamental needs. While acknowledging the importance of our fundamental needs, they pave the way for more advanced techniques like personal therapy. As people, we seek wellness, but occasionally, we may veer onto counterproductive paths. It’s a gentle reminder that the journey to feeling better often begins with everyday acts. However, if these tasks don’t bring relief, therapy becomes a valuable tool, providing support to guide you toward feeling better.

Beyond therapy, I enjoy reading non-fiction on the porch during the summer and heading up the mountains with my husband and children in the winter. These days, my two boys are finally somewhat holding their own on the mountain, saving us from carrying them down over our shoulders after opting for hot chocolate instead of skiing.

My therapeutic approach is rooted in a person-centered philosophy. Within each person lies the capacity for change, and my role as a therapist is to provide space and guidance for this transformation to unfold. Central to my philosophy is the understanding that our well-being is intricately connected to the broader context of our lives. By exploring these dynamics, we can gain insights into patterns of behavior, thoughts, and emotions that may be contributing to distress.

Contact us today for Morgan’s current availability.