Smith is an experienced counselor and ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church who is licensed as a mental health professional. He has counseled people in a variety of settings: community mental health, private practice, nonprofit agencies and hospitals. Much of his experience has been with children, adolescents and families; however, he has also worked extensively with adults, especially around addictions, loss, depression, relational issues and life direction. Smith has served nationally as the president of the American College of Counselors and the chair of the Presbyterian Serious Mental Illness Network, and has partnered with the Alfred Adler Institute in New York. He has a broad academic background, including a professional masters from Yale University.