Jaaron T. Smith, PsyD

“Sometimes, even the smallest of changes can have big impacts,” says Dr. Smith. “Seeing patients make positive changes in their lives, even when they didn't think they could, is incredibly satisfying.” He chose behavioral medicine to help people who don’t know where to start or where to go. “Psychology offers practical tools and interventions to help people with whatever they’re experiencing,” he says. Yet as important as those resources are, “being warm, open, nonjudgmental, and understanding are every bit as important.”

Each of us has unique identities and experiences that shape much of our lives, he believes. “My patients are the experts on themselves and their lives. I work collaboratively to help them find solutions that make sense for what they are experiencing and where they are in life.”

Dr. Smith holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Portland State University along with a masters and doctorate degree in clinical psychology from Pacific University. He completed his internship and residency at Pacific Psychology and Comprehensive Health Clinic.

A Seattle native, he has spent most of his life in the Pacific Northwest. He enjoys spending time in the outdoors – camping, kayaking, paddle boarding and hiking – and generally being silly with his partner, their two kids, two dogs, and one cat. Volunteering is also important to him, from being lunch buddies with elementary school kids to volunteering with medical teams in West Africa.