About Brad Smith, In-Person and Telehealth Clinician
Brad Smith of Precipice Counseling in Tooele, UT, is professionally licensed as a clinical mental health counselor. He earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology at Utah Valley University and his master’s degree in mental health counseling from the University of Phoenix. Brad brings experience from Southwest Behavioral Center, as well as 20+ years in retail leadership and human resource conflict management.
Brad’s approach to counseling can be summed up in the following quote by Carl Rogers: “When the other person is hurting, confused, troubled, anxious, alienated, or terrified; or when he or she is doubtful of self-worth, uncertain as to identity—then understanding is called for. The gentle and sensitive companionship offered by an empathic person provides illumination and healing. In such situations, deep understanding is, I believe, the most precious gift one can give to another.”
Brad, his wife, their eight children, two dogs, and eight chickens live locally in Tooele County.
Brad’s Views on Mental Health and Wellness and Other Topics
As part of our effort to help connect you with a clinician that would best serve you, here are Brad’s opinion and perspective on the following important topics.
Therapeutic Journey
In choosing a therapist, I think it is pivotal to understand the clinician’s “approach” to therapy. Often, the methods or frameworks that clinicians use are as varied as the individuals who seek treatment. My preferred method of treatment is a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach to healing. I firmly believe that if we want to change how we feel, we need to take a very close look at how we think and behave. These mechanisms—our thoughts and behaviors—are, in my belief, the two main domains in a person’s life that need to be addressed. I tend to be more focused on today—the thoughts you are thinking right now and the behaviors you are engaging in at this moment.
I also believe in the importance of the therapeutic relationship. In fact, research has shown that who you choose as a clinician and the relationship with that clinician are often more important than the type of therapy the clinician uses. At the end of the day, I strive to be an advocate for the client, helping them find the best fit for their needs and personality.
Passion in Anxiety Recovery
Anxiety is a natural part of being alive—we all experience it. But when it becomes overwhelming, it can trap the mind in cycles of worry and fear, making even simple tasks feel difficult. I’m passionate about helping others regain control by using proven strategies to break free from overthinking, build resilience, and find a sense of calm and confidence.
Passion in Depression Recovery
As someone who has navigated the depths of depression, I am deeply passionate about helping others find their way toward healing. Depression can feel like a relentless weight, trapping the mind in cycles of hopelessness, self-doubt, and exhaustion. It distorts how we see ourselves, our future, and even our worth.
Favorite quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
"The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well."
Call Precipice Counseling at 435-200-3107 to schedule an appointment with Brad.
