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Jennifer Smentek, LISW

Iowa LISW helping people build resilience
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Relationship support
  • Career and parenting

About Jennifer Smentek

Jennifer Smentek is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) practicing in Iowa with more than 25 years of professional social work experience. She emphasizes creating a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where people can safely explore emotions, gain new perspectives, and strengthen their ability to manage life’s challenges. Jennifer draws on a strengths-based, solution-focused orientation while integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques and mindfulness practices to develop individualized plans that fit each person’s needs.

Her clinical experience includes supporting individuals through stress and anxiety, relationship concerns, motivation and confidence struggles, self-esteem challenges, and career-related difficulties. Jennifer aims to help people build resilience and practical coping strategies they can use in daily life. She approaches therapy as a collaborative process, helping clients identify goals, try new skills, and track progress at a pace that feels sustainable.

Tone and approach are grounded, compassionate, and practical, with an emphasis on measurable steps and real-world solutions. Jennifer works in English and brings decades of social work experience to help clients navigate transitions and pursue more fulfilling, balanced lives.

Areas of Expertise

Primary Focus

Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes

Also Specializes In

Parenting issuesCoaching

Additional Focus Areas

Aging and geriatric issuesCancerCaregiver issues and stressChronic pain, illness, and disabilityDivorce and separationFirst responder issuesHospice and end-of-life counselingLife purposeMidlife crisisMoney and financial issuesPost-traumatic stressSeasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Traumatic brain injuryWorkplace issues

Therapeutic Approach

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Solution-Focused Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

How much experience does Jennifer Smentek have?

Jennifer Smentek has 25 years of professional experience in social work and related therapeutic practice.

Is Jennifer Smentek a licensed therapist?

Yes. She holds the LISW credential, which stands for Licensed Independent Social Worker. Her Iowa license number is IA LISW 05674.

In which languages does Jennifer Smentek provide therapy?

Jennifer provides therapy in English.

Where is Jennifer Smentek located?

Jennifer is located in Iowa.

How can I work with Jennifer Smentek as my therapist?

You can work with Jennifer through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Jennifer Smentek work with international clients?

Jennifer Smentek does not currently work with international clients.

How much does therapy with Jennifer Smentek cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Jennifer commonly uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a practical, skills-based approach that helps people identify patterns of thinking and behavior that contribute to distress and then learn concrete strategies to change them. CBT can be useful for managing anxiety, stress, and problems that interfere with daily functioning.

She also applies Solution-Focused Therapy, which concentrates on clients’ strengths and future goals to develop short-term, actionable steps. This approach is often helpful for people seeking focused progress on specific concerns like relationships, career challenges, or motivation.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Jennifer works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences. Together they set priorities, try techniques, and adjust strategies based on what is most helpful.

Online therapy offerings include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, providing flexibility for varied schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier to fit sessions into busy lives and to maintain continuity of care when in-person visits are not practical, while still working with licensed professionals and therapists toward meaningful change.

Ready to start therapy with Jennifer Smentek?

Take the first step toward a better you.