ABOUT THIS VIDEO:
Dr. Ashley Smith discusses how to thrive in difficult circumstances by controlling what you can and not trying to control what you can’t.
ABOUT DR. SMITH:
Dr. Ashley Smith is an award-winning psychologist, author, speaker, and anxiety expert dedicated to helping people live better, more fulfilling lives. Guided by the principles of courage, curiosity, and compassion, she combines psychology and applied neuroscience to make mental health knowledge practical and accessible. She earned her PhD in clinical psychology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in 2007 and moved to Kansas City in 2009. She has spent her career specializing in the assessment and treatment of anxiety disorders across respected children’s hospitals, specialty anxiety centers, and her own private practice, which she led from 2017 to 2025.
Alongside her clinical work, Dr. Smith has been deeply engaged in teaching, research, and professional leadership. She has served as an adjunct assistant professor, supervised and trained students and professionals, published research and books, presented workshops nationwide, and helped plan major conferences. A longtime leader within the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, she received their 2023 Special Recognition Award for her public outreach efforts. In 2019, her passion for expanding impact led her to co-found Peak Mind: The Center for Psychological Strength, reflecting her commitment to reaching wider audiences and empowering people to thrive.